Nthanda Times

Blessings Tambala

  • Speed Courier assures of professional handling, timely delivery of parcels, CSR activities

    Malawi’s leading courier service provider, Speed Courier, has assured its customers that it will maintain professional handling and timely delivery of parcels across the country.

    Speed Courier Operations Director Talha Malik, speaking in an interview on Wednesday, said the company will also maintain its listening ear to the customers’ concerns.

    “Since its establishment, our company has worked very hard to ensure that we are meeting the expectations of our clients, and we’ll promise this mode of operation. But in the event that we have failed to meet their expectations, we urge them to engage the management for redress,” said Malik.

    He further disclosed that his company will continue complementing national efforts to address some of the social and economic challenges facing Malawians.

    Malik cited construction of affordable and decent housing for the elderly and underprivileged households as one of the projects the company has been implementing to uplift lives of Malawians.

    “So, through this initiative, we want to construct affordable, but decent homes for the elderly and the underprivileged households. We have already constructed houses for others and we will continue constructing more,” said Malik.

    He appealed to other companies to consider collaborating with them in the implementation of the project.

    Malik said working in collaboration with other companies would benefit more people.

    Speed Courier Operations Director Talha Malik

    “We need to join hands in complementing the government efforts to provide decent housing to the underprivileged and the elderly. If all the companies can think of building even a single house for a poor granny somewhere, the impact would be huge and the country will effectively address the problem of poor housing for the marginalized communities,” he said.

    Additionally, Speed Courier has constructed dozens of boreholes in villages outside Lilongwe to address the problem of lack of access to safe and clean drinking water to underprivileged communities.

    “And I would like to assure you that we’ll continue undertaking these corporate social responsibility initiatives bearing in mind that only healthy citizens can contribute to social and economic development of their country,” he narrated.

    Kondwani Bwanali, a community leader in Mvuwu Village in Traditional Authority M’bwatalika has commended Speed Courier for initiating the project.

    Bwanali described decent houses as an ultimate retirement gift for elderly persons.

  • ESAFF, NASFAM launch project to increase rural farmers’ participation in climate advocacy

    Amid increasing threats of another food crisis in Malawi following a drought that has yet again hit the country, the National Smallholder Farmers Association of Malawi (NASFAM) has announced the launch of the Adaptation Policies and Accountable Climate Funding Project.

    NASFAM Head of Programmes and Communication, Rejoice Chikakuda, said the project, which will be implemented in partnership with Eastern and Southern Africa Small-Scale Farmers Forum (ESAFF), seeks to increase participation and advocacy of rural smallholder farmers.

    “Ultimately, this project seeks to address issues of climate change and food security challenges through capacity building, policy analysis as well as campaign and advocacy for systemic change. Among others, the will empower the farmers to influence policy issues related to agriculture, climate change, food and nutrition security,” she said.

    Chikakuda disclosed that the project follows study findings, which indicated that the escalating impacts of climate change continue to threaten food security and nutrition across Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA).

    She stated that smallholder farmers particularly women, who produce 70-80 percent of the food consumed in these regions, face increasing risks from droughts, floods, cyclones and pests & diseases.

    “This situation is further worsened by inadequate government action on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 2030) and the ending CAADP Malabo Commitments on Agriculture coupled with insufficient climate adaptation funding for rural communities. By August 2023, an alarming 57.5 million people in SADC and 43.4 million people in the EAC were food insecure. This crisis is exacerbated by climate change, inadequate investment in rural agriculture and regional conflicts,” she explained.

    Chikakuda disclosed that the project will run from 2025 to 2027, covering direct 10 ESAFF member countries and seven indirect member countries. The total project budget is EUR 600, 000 whereby EUR 540, 000 is funded by BfdW while EUR 60,000 as matching funds from ESAFF.

    Chikakuda (R) with farmers in Lilongwe

    This project’s main objective is to increase participation and advocacy of rural smallholder farmers, (especially women) in climate-related policy dialogues at district, national governments and regional levels, on the allocation and disbursement of funds for climate change related programs and food and nutrition security for increased productivity though agro-ecology practices.

    Lilongwe and its surrounding districts of Dowa, Mchinji, and Dedza have long been recognized as Malawi’s food basket, owing to their fertile land and significant contributions to the country’s agricultural output.

    But, but as Mavuto Chikadza and Linda Jussa, who are NASFAM members from Lilongwe, explain, climate change is increasingly threatening this vital agricultural region.

    Chikadza and Jussa said rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and prolonged droughts are undermining the productivity of smallholder farmers, who rely on traditional farming methods that are vulnerable to changing weather patterns.

    In addition to these environmental challenges, land degradation and deforestation have worsened, as farmers continue to cut down trees and sell their prime agricultural land to developers and investors.

    “Therefore, this project has come at the right time and we expect to benefit a lot from it,” said Jussa when Chikakuda introduced the project to them on Tuesday last week.

  • Gemstone exporters call for swift lift of ban on mineral exports

    Gemstone miners, who are artisanal small-scale miners, have given authorities at the Capital Hill up to Tuesday this week to lift the ban on mineral exports.

    Chairlady for the concerned mineral exporters, Annie Kamanga, said they are strongly opposed to the ongoing ban on mineral exports, which the Ministry of Trade and Industry imposed on February 12, 2025.

    “We request the ministry to lift the ban immediately and engage with stakeholders to develop better solutions. Failure to do so will force us to take alternative measures to protect our livelihoods. A response is needed by Tuesday next week,” said Kamanga.

    However, the exporters did not disclose the action they intend to take if the government does not heed their call.

    Throughout the press conference, the visibly concerned Kamanga and her fellow exporters, while addressing journalists at Maula Parish in Lilongwe on Sunday afternoon, lamented that the ban, whose initial timeframe was 21-day timeframe, but has gone up to over 40 days, has caused huge financial losses, disrupted supply chains, halted contracts, leading to loss of revenue.

    “The ban has led to increased mineral smuggling. This can be very difficult to control and is harming the economy. Export-related fees and taxes are no longer being collected,” she explained.

    She further stated that the ban has resulted in job losses for some while local miners and traders have lost their income, contributing to increased poverty levels in rural areas.

    Kamanga warned that the country would not generate adequate foreign exchange because the ban has reduced the country’s ability to earn foreign exchange thereby weakening the domestic economy.

    Prior to the press briefing, the mineral exporters wrote the Minister of Mining, requesting for an audience to discuss issues that might have prompted the imposition of the ban.

    ASM members

    They reminded the minister about the crucial role they play and the huge contributions they are making to Malawi’s economy through creation of jobs, generation of revenue and the much-needed forex, and stimulating economic growth.

    “It is very sad that instead of promoting the few who export officially, your ministry is frustrating them instead of engaging with them to find sustainable solutions that benefit everyone. The way your ministry is handling this issue, we assume that the government takes the country’s ASMs as second-class citizens.

    “We understand the ministry’s intention to streamline export procedures and enhance regulatory frameworks. However, we strongly believe that this goal can be achieved through collaboration and consultation with industry stakeholders, rather than imposing a blanket ban that has created many inconveniences and panic to us, the key players of the industry,” reads the letter addressed to Dr. Ken Zikhale Ng’oma, who is the Minister of Mining.

    But Ng’oma has not yet responded to the letter, over 30 days after it was sent to her office.

  • New company, ChanguFood, born to revolutionize food delivery in Malawi

    Visionary entrepreneurs – Nohaata Seven and Eric Chiwala – have launched a company set to evolve food delivery landscape in Malawi.

    ChanguFood, for that is the name of the company, is at the forefront of this transformation, and with a mission to bridge the gap between customers and restaurants, the company mobile app is already redefining the industry with a technology-driven approach that prioritises speed, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

    Speaking in an interview on Thursday, Seven said no one should have to compromise on convenience when it comes to food delivery.

    “It is a service that needs to be delivered fast but with the utmost care,” stated Seven, who is the Founder and Developer of the ChanguFood app.

    “At ChanguFood, we are revolutionising the experience by ensuring that high-quality meals reach our customers efficiently, no matter where they are.”

    The app enables ordering of food in a simple, fast, and hassle-free. According to Seven, ChanguFood’s user-friendly mobile app allows customers to browse menus, select their favourite meals, place orders, and track deliveries in real-time, adding that users can enjoy restaurant-quality meals at work, home, or on the go with just a few steps.

    “Our commitment is to make food delivery seamless. We have built an easy-to-use mobile platform that enhances convenience for customers and restaurants, making it easier than ever to access delicious meals,” added Nohaata.

    While customers face affordability challenges and delays, many food businesses struggle with inefficient delivery networks, high operational costs, and limited access to broader markets.

    Seven: The service will be delivered fast

    ChanguFood’s solution streamlines operations with flexible delivery and various online payment options (via the payment gateway PayChangu).

    This helps merchants boost sales, manage their businesses more efficiently, and improve customer satisfaction.

    “ChanguFood is not just another food delivery service. We are changing the way Malawians experience food delivery,” Nohaata says.

    In his remarks, Chiwala, the co-founding director at ChanguFood, stated that the vision for ChanguFood was not just to enter the market with an innovative app, but to really make a meaningful impact.

    He said this is why one of our focus areas was to target not only the popular restaurants, but also those that are not well-known and widen their reach via our app.

    “The app helps merchants grow their customer base by giving them access to a broader audience and offering insights into delivery performance and customer feedback. We are also intentional about hiring the best young talent. Our staff is comprised of young people who are energetic, driven, and ready to work towards contributing positively to the economy,” he added.

    ChanguFood’s professional delivery team ensures that every order is delivered on time and in perfect condition.

    By investing in professional training, ChanguFood has built a team that prioritises efficiency and customer service, upholding the company’s high standards for reliability and efficiency.

    Following the successful launch in Lilongwe, ChanguFood is set to expand its services to Blantyre by April 2025. This expansion is a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to improve the food delivery experience across Malawi.

    With this move, ChanguFood aims to provide greater convenience and accessibility to customers in Blantyre while also forging partnerships with local restaurants.

    “This move is not just about growth – it’s about strengthening the connection between restaurants and customers through reliable technology and service. By bringing ChanguFood to Blantyre, we are unlocking new opportunities for local businesses while ensuring that more Malawians can enjoy the convenience of fast, high-quality food delivery,” Chiwala said.

    Meanwhile, ChanguFood invites all Malawians – students, busy professionals, families, and restaurant owners – to be part of this exciting journey.

    Download the ChanguFood app from the App Store or Google Play. Stay connected on all social media via @ChanguFood for the latest updates, promotions, and special offers. You can also visit the official website www.changu.app.

    “The future of food delivery is here. We are building a service that truly meets the needs of Malawians. Join us as we make fast, reliable, and convenient food delivery a standard in the country,” Nohaata concluded.

  • NICE commits to promotion of professional journalism, signs MoU with media body

    National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Public Trust has expressed commitment to helping media bodies in promoting responsible and professional journalism in Malawi.

    Speaking when she signed signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Nyika Media Club (NMC) in Mzuzu a few days ago, NICE Public Relations and Communications Officer, Grace Hara, said journalists have a critical role in promoting democracy and good governance; hence, the need for her organization to partner with them.

    “On its own, NICE Public Trust cannot manage to reach every stakeholder with messages. But through the media, the Trust is able to inform the citizenry on issues, elections and good governance,” said Hara.

    nice
    Grace Hara and Feston Malekezo

    NMC is a media institution whose members practice their journalism in the Northern Region of Malawi.

    The MoU between NICE Public Trust and NMC is therefore aimed at promoting public access to balanced information on various governance issues, including elections and promoting active citizenship through objective reporting.

    NMC chairperson Feston Malekezo described the agreement as a milestone in the advancement of professional and responsible journalism, adding that the club and its members will endeavor to disseminate information that is accurate and verified.

    The MoU is effective for a period of three years, with the option to renew.

  • Bishop Priest Rabbi Kabvina ordained, appointed president of Christian Association of Malawi

    The Christian Associations Worldwide and Christian Association Worldwide of Malawi, Episcopal Bishopric Ordination for Interdenominational Bishops last weekend sanctified, ordained and appointed Bishop Priest-Rabbi Kabvina as the president of the Christian Association of Malawi.

    The ordination entails that Kabvina is now among the High Priests in the Order of Melchizedek following his ordination by he Rod of High Priesthood.

    Speaking after the ordination, Kabvina described his ordination as unique and a true manifestation of the call of God.

    He said unlike in other churches and ministries, he did not just wake up and started calling himsef a lot of titles like BISHOP, PROPHET, APOSTLE as many people do.

    Rabbi Kabvina
    Kabvina: This is a manifestation of God’s calling

    “But when GOD is involved we follow protocols. In the Kingdom of God, the authority is given to the Church to bind or to loose. Now there are two types of ordination, denominational and interdenominational. Interdenominational ordination means someone has been given authority to operate in the Body of Christ, denominational ordination means someone is given authority to operate in that denomination only. So what has happened is beyond a denomination,” said one of the ordaining bishops.

    Quoting Holy Scriptures, Kabvina emphasized that like YESHUA JESUS told John the Baptist in Mathew 3:15, “it is good for us to fulfill all righteousness”.

    “Isaiah 9:6 says for to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. There is a difference between a child and a son, a child relies on his father on day to day life, but a son is someone the father relies on, he can be sent on errands without doubting him.’

    “This ordination is not just a mere laying of hands but it is an ordination from God sending me worldwide to preach the gospel. I used to be a child now I am a son whom the father is relying on to feed his sheep knowing that I will feed them and direct them according to his will. As Bishop Dr Abraham J. Simama had indicated, it is true twenty years ago I was running away from the calling when he told me I was going to become a servant of God, I now thank God that I accepted the calling and I am glad to be the youngest Bishop in Malawi since people regards Bishops to be people who are older with grey hair, it is an honor to serve God at a young age like this,” he said.

    The ordination

    “Mostly when you get in your twenties God starts teaching you about the ordinances of heaven before announcing you to the world, and once you get 30 that’s when you start your full time ministry, Numbers 4:23. Just like Jesus Christ started his ministry at 30 years old it doesn’t mean he wasn’t called when he was young, but God waited for his appointed time and he was declared to the world. The same with me, I was born with God, I have pass through training and Process and I have been raised to become that which God has appointed me to be come, now it’s a season of appearing before the second coming our LORD YESHUA JESUS CHRIST THE MESSIAH, the King of glory,” he added.

    Kabvina described his ordination as a memorable event in his life, saying it means a new beginning in my life, closing the old dispensation and opening new dispensation.

    “Just like Aron’s rod was sprouting, my life will sprout and with the anointing that I have tapped from the Spirit of Elohim Adonai our God who was ordaining me, I am ready to go out in the world and deliver nothing but the word of God in truth and in spirit. We need support amongst us as Christians from the four corners of the earth to defeat the Kingdom of Darkness,” he said.

    Christian Associations Worldwide is an interdenominational network, organization, fellowship of all Christians and all Christian churches and denomination, with a vision to promote Christian unity in every country of the world.

    Its goal is to establish its association in every country across the world. Currently, it has four national branches of this association, including, the Christian Association of Malawi, the Christian Association of Zambia, the Christian Association of India, the Christian Association of Pakistan. It also expects to establish at least seven continental head offices in the seven continents of the world.

    In Malawi, Bishop Priest Rabbi Kabvina has been officially appointed as the president of the Christian Association of Malawi, and he is expected to work with other councils of CAMW to pursue their vision and achieve their goals and objectives.

    Other bishops serving in this association include Bishop Joseph Mambala and Bishop Dr. Glory Joshua who is the Acting President of the Christian Association Worldwide.

  • Malawi must invest in mindset change or face peril, Mwalubunju warns

    One of Malawi’s longest serving human rights and governance advocates, Ollen Mwalubunju, has called for serious investment in mindset change interventions, warning that failure to do so will plunge the country in deep trouble.

    In a press release shared on Thursday, Mwalubunju, who was among founders of the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR), observes that things have steadily been deteriorating ‘in an unacceptable manner for the last 30 years of our multiparty democracy”.

    “As a concerned citizen and an eminent Malawian in the governance and public policy sector, I cannot be sitting down when our country has been deteriorating in an unacceptable manner for the last 30 years of our multi-party democracy. I am, therefore, issuing this press release to raise concerns and the need to stand up together in finding meaningful and practical solutions, before the situation gets out of hand,” he begins his statement.

    Mwalubunju says it is painful to note that the country, which has not been at war or faced with major calamities in the past, except with the recent cyclones, is among the poorest countries in the world.

    He observes that since multi-party democracy, the country’s successive governments’ leadership have failed miserably to turn around the country’s economy to prosperity.

    Mwalubunju: Malawi must change its mindset or perish

    “Worse still and shameless, each successive government’s leadership, instead of reflecting on its achievements and failures, and identifying solutions head on, they have instead been concentrating on blaming each other and complaining with so many senseless excuses. While, we can put the blame on our leaders, it would also be unfair to wholly blame them, because, where these leaders come from, in our communities, we have a challenge of “mindset change.” Therefore, our leaders are a reflection of the very society they are coming from.

    “We are therefore, at a juncture in our nation’s history. Either we change our mindset or we perish. To overcome our challenges and build a prosperous future, we must adopt a mindset shift, attitude adjustment and behavior change. We must embrace patriotism and a sense of pride of our country, we must work hard, and we must embrace a culture of a strong work ethics and discipline, we must shift from dependence to self-reliance by recognizing that only our efforts will yield rewards towards building a united and prosperous Malawi,” he emphasized.

    Mwalubunju has challenged and call upon Malawian citizens and the government, as a matter of urgency and priority, to invest in mindset change programs at all level. He recommends that the Government of Malawi must prioritize and invest heavily resources in mainstreaming mind-set messages in civic education; public and community media programs.

    “The government must integrate mind-set change messages in all safety net programs and mainstream self-reliance rather than dependence syndrome; engage faith-based organizations to mainstream mind-set messages in their pastoral work and educational institutions. It should also engage MACRA to lobby all communication institutions to mainstream mindset change messages as part of social responsibility component,” he recommends.

    Apart from being part of the front-liners in the struggle for the respect of human rights for Malawians, Mwalubunju also served as the first Executive Director for the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Public Trust until three years ago when he retired at the institution.

  • Communities hail Titukulane Resilience Food Security Activity for improving water access in Mangochi

    Communities in Traditional Authorities (T/A) Chamba and Ntonda in Mangochi district have commended the Titukulane Resilience Food Security Activity for constructing new and rehabilitating existing, but dysfunctional boreholes in the two areas.

    With financial support from the United States Aid for International Development (USAID), consortium of six non-governmental organizations comprising Care International in Malawi, WaterAid Malawi, Emmanuel International, the National Smallholder Farmers Association of Malawi (NASFAM), International Food and Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) and Save The Children International (SCI) has been implementing the activity in Mangochi and Zomba districts.

    The ultimate goal of the activity was to increase coverage of safe drinking water in communities with below basic access through targeted rehabilitation and construction of water supply infrastructure.

    Village Head (VH) Chiyambeni, who is under T/A Ntonda, speaking to journalists on tour of the project sites in Mangochi this week, said the problem of lack of safe and clean drinking water negatively affected the social and economic development of his area.

    Chiyambeni stated that the high levels of destitution and poverty in the area are a result of lack of water, observing that without safe and clean drinking water, the possibility of breaking out of the cycle of poverty is incredibly slim.

    “Lack of water and poverty are inseparably linked because where there is no water, able-bodied members of a community are forced to spend hours searching and transporting water instead of working on their farms. Additionally, poor access to water and insufficient sanitation affect the health of the poor, their food security, and their prospects for making a living,” he said.

    Titukulane Resilience Food Security Activity
    VH Chiyambeni drawing water from the borehole constructed with funding from USAID through Titukulane Activity–Photos by Watipaso Mzungu

    Apart from construction of 30 new boreholes, the organizations rehabilitated 75 boreholes in Mangochi and Zomba, respectively, translating it to 150 rehabilitated boreholes.

    Chiyambeni emphasized that the construction and rehabilitation of the boreholes have reduced cases of waterborne diseases in the targeted areas.

    “We will now actively participate in the social and economic activities taking place in our communities,” he said.

    Theresa Kananji, a widow who lost her husband to cholera in Chiyambeni Village, said her spouse would not have died if the village had access to safe and clean drinking water.

    Kananji, 50, therefore described the construction of the borehole as a great relief and salvation not only to her family, but also to the entire village.

    “I am very excited with the coming in of a borehole in our village. We used to walk long distances to fetch water from unsafe sources. It would take three hours for someone to walk to and from the water source,” she said.

    Kananji sharing her experience with MBC’s Chikondi Phikiso

    “This borehole will significantly reduce cases of cases of cholera and other waterborne diseases thereby saving lives. We’re very grateful to Care International in Malawi and its partners for giving us this precious gift.”

    WaterAid Malawi Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) specialist, Solomon Chirwa, said the project has helped significantly in improving knowledge, attitudes, skills and norms related to essential sanitation and hygiene behaviors.

    Chirwa stated that there is now increased availability of basic safely managed facilities and consumables necessary for essential sanitation and hygiene practices.

    “Through the same project, we also provided technical assistance in WASH policy review, WASH planning including integrated planning and performance review with other sectors especially at policy and district levels. We also advocated for increased funding for the WASH sector that recognizes and promotes complementarity with other sectors such as health, education and gender,” he explained.

  • Mwakasungula applauds Chakwera, Mary Chilima for honoring SKC’s legacy

    Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula has commended President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera and madam Mary Chilima, wife to the departed State Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, for putting aside politics to honour the legacy of the late Second in Command.

    Mwakasungula was reacting to the decision by Madam Chilima to invite President Chakwera and the First Lady, Madam Monica Chakwera, to grace the launch of SKC Foundation as main guests at an event scheduled to take pace in Lilongwe this Wednesday.

    The revered human rights and governance advocate stated that by inviting the President and First Lady to the event, Madam Chilima has shown wisdom and maturity, helping to bring unity to the country as the country heals from the tragic death of SKC, as most Malawians fondly called him.

    “The presence of the First Couple will also encourage Malawians to come together regardless of political affiliation and support the foundation’s mission,” reacted Mwakasungula, adding that the event is important as it honours the life and work of the late Vice President who served Malawi with great sacrifice.

    Mwakasungula said SKC’s contributions to the country were notable, and that the foundation is coming at the right time in ensuring that his vision and values prevails.

    “Madam Mary Chilima’s decision to invite President Chakwera as Guest of Honour instead of the new leader of UTM Party might have some deep meaning. It shows that the event is all about remembering Dr. Chilima’s legacy and bringing Malawians together rather than focusing on political differences. Dr. Chilima was a leader who worked for all Malawians, regardless of their political beliefs, and this event reflects the unity and respect he promoted throughout his life.

    Mwakasungula: Don't forget that we're a nation in mourning, let us give contact and dialogue a chance
    Undule Mwakasungula

    “This invitation also plays an important role in helping the nation heal after the tragic accident that took Dr. Chilima’s life. Losing such a great leader was painful for Malawians and this foundation launch provides a way to remember him with love and respect,” emphasized Mwakasungula.

    He further stated that the SKC Foundation is not just about honouring Dr. Chilima’s memory, but also about continuing the good work he started, striving to make Malawi a better place. 

    Mwakasungula said the cause that Dr. Chilima cared deeply about, and that the foundation will make sure his dream of helping Malawi lives on.

    “In supporting this launch, the President and First Lady are showing that they recognize and appreciate the positive impact that Dr. Chilima had on our country. President Chakwera, being the Guest of Honour, makes the event even more special. His presence shows that Malawi values and respects the contributions of its leaders even after they are gone. It also sends a strong message that national development is more important than political competition, leaders should be remembered for their service to the nation, and this event sets that example.

    “The launch of the SKC Foundation therefore is not just about remembering the late Vice President, but also about building a stronger, united Malawi as we move on as a country,” said Mwakasungula.

  • Tobias outlines plans for developing inclusively wealthy, self-reliant nation

    Aspiring independent presidential candidate Milward Tobias says his administration will speed up the pace at which the economy is growing to six times the current pace in order to accelerate the process of achieving an inclusively wealth and self-reliant nation.

    Tobias, in a statement shared on Thursday, added that his government will create an enabling political environment that guarantees good governance.

    “In the past, we had periods when Malawi economy grew at a faster rate consistently over several years. For example, from 1971 to 1979, and from 2006 to 2011 these were some of the golden years in Malawi.

    “This gives hope that with good leadership, we can grow this economy again.  My government will bring back these golden years by stabilizing the macroeconomic environment to anchor sectoral transformations. We will also facilitate public and private investments in productive sectors, in economic growth catalysts and in social services,” he said.

    Turning to governance, Tobias said his government will fix the chain of command to enhance discipline and efficiency in public service by promoting accountability and transparency through, among others, conducting quarterly progress review meetings chaired by the president, which will be broadcast live for the public to follow and participate.

    The aspiring His Excellency stated that during the review meetings, cabinet ministers, parastatal boards, and leadership of local councils and their respective management teams will present progress in the implementation of their plans, including procurement and prices of what they are procuring.

    He said the review meetings will take the form, which the Public Sector Reforms Commission took in 2015 to mid-2017 except this time they will be broadcast live and there will be a feedback mechanism for the public to ask questions or clarification.

    “We will root out corruption decisively. Fighting corruption is a war. Being a war, it needs troops who are loyal to their nation. Troops who are well-trained and well-resourced. Above all, troops who are best commanded. The agencies responsible for fighting corruption are the troops. The president is the commander. Like in a military war, if troops are compromised, it is difficult to win the fight against corruption.

    Tobias
    Presidential aspirant Milward Tobias

    “If the commander is compromised, it is impossible to win the fight against corruption. It is acknowledged that corruption is endemic in nearly all sectors and all arms of government. Nonetheless, the public service is the siphoning point and that is the area under direct charge of a president. When the source of siphoning money is closed, there will be no incentive for corrupt people to bride other arms of government to secure protection.

    “Government will decisively fight against corruption because the campaign is being done in honesty and honest means of resourcing it. All systemic traps that lead to advance state capture and advanced candidate capture are being eliminated before getting into office.

    “That is why I am not forming a political party which has been a systemic cause of corruption in several ways including financing it and having political party members interfering with government operations and procurement,” said Tobias.