Nthanda Times

Blessings Tambala

  • Undule weighs in on Namiwa’s resignation from Commission of Inquiry

    One of Malawi’s longest-serving Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula has weighed in on the resignation of Sylvester Namiwa from the Commission of Inquiry on the plane crash that claimed the life of former State Vice President, Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, and eight others, describing the resignation as questionable.

    Mwakasungula, in a statement shared on Saturday morning, said Namiwa’s resignation from the Commission of Inquiry has surprised many “including myself”.

    He wondered why in the first place the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) executive director accepted the position and even took an oath to serve.

    “So his decision to leave has left people wondering about his commitment.  Mr. Namiwa has always been outspoken on important issues, and he advocated strongly for the Commission to be set up in the first place. In fact, he was one of the loudest voices pushing for the inquiry, even threatening to demonstrate when there were delays in forming it. Now that the Commission is finally established and he was appointed as a member, his decision to step away feels inconsistent with his earlier position,” reacted Mwakasungula.

    According to Mwakasungula, many Malawians hoped that Namiwa’s participation in the Commission would add value as he has been very vocal about the events surrounding the crash.

    He said the information Namiwa would have provided could have contributed to fuller understanding of what happened.

    “As a commissioner, he would have had the chance to ask questions, and bring forward the concerns he has raised in the past.  In choosing to leave, Mr. Namiwa I feel has missed an opportunity to serve Malawian. Stepping down at this point also limits Mr. Namiwa’s influence. While he could continue to speak from outside the Commission, his impact might have been stronger from within.

    Mwakasungula: Let us desist from raising alarm over unfounded theories when the President makes an appointment

    “Serving on the Commission would have allowed him to engage fully in the process and contribute to the final findings. Now, any criticisms he will make from outside will lack the weight and authority  than had he remained part of the commission.  This is disappointing because it would have been better for him to work towards solutions from inside, rather than pointing fingers from the outside,” he said.

    “Mr. Namiwa’s choice to leave the Commission I feel was done in a hurry and emotional without clear reflection of the impact. It may be viewed by some as unpatriotic, as if he is running away from his duty to serve Malawians.  Important to emphasize that leaders who accept public roles should be willing to see them through, especially in matters that are as sensitive and important as this inquiry.

    “Despite his resignation, I hope Mr. Namiwa will still be open to helping the Commission as an information source. He has been outspoken about the crash and information he has could help the investigation. It is not a secret this plane crash tragedy has divided the country and  increased mistrust hence  the Commission’s work is very important for the healing and unity of our country.  The Commission’s findings and recommendations therefore could bring closure to the victims’ families and to all Malawians. The report will help us understand what happened and how we could prevent similar incidents in the future,” concluded Mwakasungula.

  • 265 Energy Ltd receives new consignment of 3kg gas cylinders

    Malawi’s leading supplier of gas and solar equipment, 265 Energy Limited, has announced the arrival of a new consignment of the affordable three-kilogramme gas cylinders in the country.

    The company’s Public Relations Officer, Phillip White, said in a statement on Wednesday that the consignment builds on the overwhelming success of last year’s launch.

    “These cylinders have been highly embraced by Malawians for their convenience, affordability, and environmental benefits. The 3kg gas package will be available in all outlets and other bigshops, and each package includes 3kg Gas Cylinder, 3kg Gas Fill and Cooker Top,” said White.

    He disclosed that as part of a special offer, the first 600 customers will receive a free gas lighter with their purchase of the 3kg package at the same price.

    White added that the company wants to ensure that the affordable cylinders are available in all cities and various outlets. 

    “Malawians have already embraced them; last year, we saw many using them at farms and offices. They are also ideal for students and fieldwork.The best part is their affordability, along with all the necessary certifications,” he narrated.

    The cylinders are expected to be available in all cities including Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu and various outlets across the country, making it easy for customers to access them. 

    Whether for personal use, gifting to loved ones, schools,farms or offices, the cylinders offer a practical solution for clean and efficient energy consumption. 

    The appliances have been ordered through a project called Green Energy Transition Facilities(GETF), which is receiving funding from Irish Aid through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). 

    Standard Bank has also played a significant role by providing financing under their China-Africa Trade Initiative, ensuring the successful delivery of the gas cylinders to Malawi. 

    “Save the environment and your community by securing a 3kg gas cylinder for your household, school, or office today,” thus White concluded his statement.

  • NCD Alliance Malawi calls for collaboration to fight against NCDs

    The growing attention from authorities and an increase in resource allocation for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) hold great potential to improve efforts in controlling the NCDs. 

    And enhancing these efforts further would accelerate progress in combating NCDs across the country. This has been revealed during this years Global Week for Action on NCDs, held from October 15 to 22, 2024, where the commemoration happened at Kasiya Community Ground on Monday in Lilongwe.

    It came to light that Malawi continues to experience an increase in NCD cases, leading to a number of deaths due to lack of awareness of these diseases. 

    The NCD Alliance has urged the government and other relevant stakeholders to enhance awareness and advocacy for NCDs, especially targeting those living in rural areas. 

    The focus is on sensitising people about prevention and treatment strategies related to NCDs. 

    Kefasi Banda, a member of the NCD Alliance said that the global week for action on NCDs aims to ensure that communities are well-informed about NCD prevention and management.

    He therefore said there is a critical need for increased attention and action to reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in the country.

    “There is no doubt that we have the commitment and solutions to create a healthier world for all and making this a crucial moment for government and decision makers to turn intent to action. We have precious little time to get it right but the fourth UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs in 2025 is where pledges must become reality and it’s time to move from words to action on NCDs together, we can spark the necessary change for NCDs, IT’S TIME TO LEAD,” said Banda.

    “So today, here at Kasiya, we wanted to bring notice to the community that NCDs need action and attention even in rural areas. Obviously there is information gap that’s why we even brought primary health care facilities leadership at the function to signify that collective efforts will help to move from intent to action by all stakeholders,” explained Banda. 

    Dr. Deborah Katete, the Senior Medical Officer at Kabudula Community Hospital, called for collaboration among stakeholders and development partners to support health workers in the fight against NCDs.

    She stressed that such collaborative efforts could lead to better health outcomes in rural communities across the country. 

    “We are here to raise awareness about non communicable diseases as well as our health workers providing free screening for hypertension and diabetes ensuring that individuals at risk were referred to local health centers for further assistance,” said Katete.

    Katete added, “the participants received essential information about NCDs which can significantly enhance their health-seeking behaviours and overall well-being.” 

    Meanwhile, Group Village Headman Khongoni in Lilongwe encouraged all traditional authorities, senior chiefs, chiefs, and leaders to play a proactive role in combatting NCDs by raising awareness at various social gatherings such as wedding ceremonies, rallies, religious events, and other community gatherings.

    “This event has come at right time because people are now able to know that non communicable diseases cannot transmit from one person to another person. Am appealing to all Malawian to go and test for non communicable diseases in doing so we are going to prevent everyone in the country,” said Khongoni.

    Lived Experience individuals like Chinkhulupiro Ng’ombe from Blantyre based Cancer Survivors Quest and Spencer Hamilton from Kasiya, Lilongwe, emphasized the importance of all Malawians and leaders taking responsibility for raising awareness about NCDs. 

    They believe that increased awareness can contribute to a reduction in NCD cases in the country.

    During the event, over 200 people were tested for high blood pressure, with 56 people testing positive.

    Those diagnosed were advised to seek further assistance at healthcare facilities for necessary attention and care.

  • Undule, NICE plead with Malawians to register for 2025 General Elections

    Renowned Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula and the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Public Trust have pleaded with eligible Malawians to register with the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) so that they can participate in the next year’s General Elections.

    MEC rolled out the first phase of the voter registration for the 2025 General Elections on Monday, October 21, 2024, and is expect to run up to November 3, 2024. The exercise is taking place in Chitipa, Karonga, Karonga Town, Mzuzu, Nkhotakota, Ntchisi, Salima, Dedza, Balaka, Machinga, Chiradzulu, Neno, Phalombbe and Mulanje.

    However, there have been reports that ‘very few people’ are patronizing MEC registration centres, a development that sparked fear that there may be voter apathy in the September 2025 General Elections.

    In an interview on Monday afternoon, Mwakasungula said registration is an important opportunity for all eligible citizens to ensure they can participate in the upcoming elections.

    Mwakasungula: This program is of national rather than political importance
    Mwakasungula: Registration is very important

    “It is important for every Malawian to understand that registering to vote is a  constitutional right and a chance to elect the leaders  of  their choice.  If you do not register, you will not be able to vote in the September 16, 2025 elections, meaning you will  miss the chance to influence Malawi’s direction of your choice. If you meet the eligibility criteria, make sure you register. Your voice matters, and your vote is your power!” he said.

    Mwakasungua advised Malawians who are facing challenges to register to lodge or channel their grievances with relevant authorities.

    “Additionally, they can call civil society organizations to help play their role in mobilizing Malawians to register in large numbers during this period,” he said.

    Henry Zekeria mobilizing Balaka residents to go and register

    In a separate interview, NICE District Programmes Officer for Balaka, Henry Zekeria, has disclosed that his office has intensified a campaign to mobilize eligible voters to register in the district.

    Zekeria disclosed that NICE has hired young men and women who will be going around mobilizing people to go and register.

    “We expect that the turnout will improve as days pass,” he said.

  • DPP North accuses MCP-led government of deceit, urges Malawians to give Chakwera a ‘protest vote in 2025’

    The leadership of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in the Northern Region has accused the Malawi Congress Party (MCP)-led administration of deceiving Malawians on development.

    Led by DPP vice president responsible for the Northern Region, Jappie Mhango, at a political rally in Rumphi on Sunday, the leaders lamented failure by the President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera’s government to complete even the development projects his predecessor, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, initiated and started implementing in the region.

    Mhango cited Njakwa-Livingstonia Road, Mombera University, Rumphi-Nyika-Nthalire-Chitipa Road, Jenda-Edingeni Road and Kasonkhwe Technical College as some of the projects the DPP administration initiated and started implementing before Chakwera ascended to the presidency through the June 2020 Fresh Presidential Elections.

    “Since he became president, Chakwera has done nothing for the north let alone Rumphi where he is married his wife. It’s unfortunate that the current administration is failing to complete them,” he said.

    Mhango cautioned people against being fed with ‘more lies’ from MCP, warning that Chakwera and his leadership have proven that they do not have the welfare of the people from the north.

    The DPP second in command for the Northern Region said the rising cost of living, theft and plunder of public resources through shady deals being initiated at the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), such as the K1.5 trillion petroleum deal, importation of fertilizer from a butchery in the United Kingdom, and the recent K1 trillion fertilizer deal are testaments of a corrupt regime.

    Ngwira wowing DPP supporters in Rumphi

    He therefore appealed Malawians to register with the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) in large numbers in order for them to vote for Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, who is a tested leader, to redeem this country from all this mess.

    In his remarks, the  DPP Regional Governor for the North, Reverend Christopher Mzomera Ngwira, assured the people in the region that things will change once Mutharika takes over next year.

    Ngwira said it was sad that the Chakwera administration could borrow over K12 trillion in four years, but whose purpose ‘no one knows up to now’.

    “Chakwera must tell this nation where this money went,” he challenged.

    During the rally, traditional and community leaders complained about the incessant rising cost of living and lack of transparency and accountability in the implementation of the Affordable Input Program (AIP), accusing the MCP of favoring its followers in the distribution of the inputs.

  • DPP veep Gangata disowns intimidation letter to lawyer Kamangila

    Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice president for the Central Region, Alfred Gangata, has disowned a letter in which he is alleged to be threatening and intimidating human rights activist and private practice lawyer, Alexious Kamangila.

    In the fake letter, Gangata is said to be demanding that Kamangila must remove the defamatory post about him [Gangata] on his [Kamangila] Facebook page.

    He is also alleged to have cautioned the lawyer against making further false and damaging accusations against him lest he risks putting his future at risk.

    But in an interview, Gangata, who is also a businessman, said he was equally shocked to be associated with the letter in which the language is nothing, but threats and intimidation.

    Gangata: I am equally shocked

    “It’s very unfortunate that some people have chosen to take that path to dent my image. I cannot do that and I urge Malawians to disregard and ignore it. The letter is not coming from me. Actually, I can’t be involved in such a practice because I am a law-abiding citizen,” he reacted.

    He added: “Let me assure all Malawians, including lawyer Kamangila, that I am not the author of that malicious letter. That’s the work of my enemies.”

    Gangata implored journalists to always verify information before working on their stories.

    “It’s quite unfortunate that other journalists have already published stories from the fake document. I wish they could verify with me,” he said.

  • Undule commends Chakwera administration for restoring donor confidence

    Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula says the resumption of direct aid by the European Union (EU) to the Government of Malawi demonstrates a clear message by the development partners about the legitimacy and stability of the Dr President Lazarus Chakwera’s government.

    Mwakasungula, who was responding to the EU’s allocation of €55 million, with €50 million directed towards budgetary support over a 30-month period to Malawi, said the assistance tells of the EU’s trust in Malawi’s governance reforms, financial accountability, and the administration’s focus on sectoral improvement. 

    “The resumption of budgetary support from the European Union to Malawi marks an important chapter in the relationship between Malawi and the international donor community. This decision, made after a decade-long pause, is indeed a strong vote of confidence in the current government and its leadership. The allocation of €55 million, with €50 million directed towards budgetary support over a 30-month period, shows the EU’s trust in Malawi’s governance reforms, financial accountability, and the administration’s focus on sectoral improvement.

    “It signals that the reforms and governance measures instituted in recent years are starting to bear fruit, particularly in terms of restoring credibility with international partners. The EU’s support, combined with targeted investments in education, also reflects the broader success of Malawi’s Public Financial Management framework, which aims to promote transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of resources,” he said in a statement released on Wednesday afternoon.

    Mwakasungula added that the resumption of support goes beyond mere financial assistance, stressing that it represents renewed legitimacy on the global stage and solidifies the perception of Malawi as a trustworthy and competent partner in development.

    He said the focus on secondary education will further ensure that the country invests in its human capital, which is a critical factor in long-term national development and poverty reduction. In focusing on the education sector and public financial management, the EU is not only addressing an immediate need but also contributing to sustainable growth.

    Putting pen to paper. Chithyola Banda and Skinebach sign the agreement. Pic by Patricia Kapulula, MANA.

    “However, maintaining and expanding this confidence requires continued diligence on the part of the government. The administration must ensure that these funds are managed with the utmost transparency and that the financial systems in place remain solids. This includes addressing any loopholes in procurement, avoiding corruption, and ensuring that every kwacha is spent with accountability and in line with public priorities.

    “For Malawi to continue gaining donor confidence, the government must also deepen its commitment to reforms that enhance governance, reduce corruption, and increase public sector efficiency. The international community will  of course be watching closely to see how the funds are managed, and any missteps could jeopardize future support. Similarly, the people of Malawi will also be closely observing the impact of this support on their lives,” said the revered human rights defender.

    “The resumption of  this EU budget support, particularly at a time of global financial constraints, also tells the importance of maintaining a positive diplomatic relationship with the international community. This moment is not just about funds but about rebuilding Malawi’s reputation as a nation committed to transparency, good governance, and development-oriented leadership,” he concluded his statement.

  • NOCMA assures motorists of adequate fuel supply

    State-owned National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) has asked motorists to stop panicking about the availability of fuel, assuring that the country has sufficient stocks.

    The assurance follows reports of scarcity of the petroleum products in some parts of the country, especially in the Southern Region.

    On Wednesday morning, the Transporters Association of Malawi (TAMA) released a statement in which it attributed the stock-outs to failure by Petroleum Importers Limited and NOCMA to pay the suppliers.

    But NOCMA Communications Manager, Raymond Thom Likambale, said there is no need for the motorists to worry as the country has adequate fuel in stock.

    Likambale: The country has enough fuel stock

    “We have sufficient stocks to meet the demand. So motorists do not have to panic-buy the products. It’s just a matter of distributing the fuel to where they have run out,” said Likambale.

    He disclosed that the suppliers are currently loading fuel in designated places.

    “In addition, we are expecting additional stock of 9 million litres of petrol and 3 million litres of diesel by early next week. Meanwhile, NOCMA is working on a financing mechanism that will help ease foreign exchange challenges with a financing agreement in place,” said Likambale.

  • NICE Public Trust, Biwi Police in joint awareness on crime prevention

    The National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Public Trust and Biwi Police Unit have joined hands in raising awareness on crime prevention at Biwi Industrial Site in Lilongwe.

    Among others, the two institutions have been conducting whistle-stop security awareness raising tours to equip the residents with information that can help them fight and/or prevent crime.

    In an interview away from the tour, NICE volunteer Aaron Mzumara said citizens have a greater role to play in ensuring that both households and workplace are secure at all times.

    Mzumara also emphasized the need for the players in the industrial sector to stop exploitation of girls and women who sell them various foodstuffs, including bananas and other fruits.

    NICE officials and police officers joining hands in raising awareness on security matters

    “We have observed that some businesspersons take advantage of the economic challenges women and girls are going through to sexually exploit them. These abuses negatively affect the social, mental and psychological health of their girls and women,” he said.

    Biwi Police Unit representative Sergeant Blessings Mantchombe warned business owners against buying goods from suspicious individuals, offering goods at a give-away prices without authentic documents.

    Mantchombe said this practice promotes crime. He also warned the community against indulging themselves in mob justice, saying this derails police investigations and hinder legal justice.

    “You must also desist from excessive beer drinking because this, too, fuels violence,” he said.

    In her remarks, an official from the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Development, Suzgika Msowoya-Nyirenda, asked business owners to stop the behavior of employing children, saying it denies the children of their right to education.

  • NCD Alliance Malawi worried with escalation of mental health problems among workers

    Malawi continues to register an escalation in cases of stress, burnout, and anxiety among workers in various sectors despite growing recognition of mental health as a critical component of well-being, Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance Malawi (NCDAMW) has disclosed.

    NCDAMW National Chairperson Maud Mwakasungula, in a statement issued last week, called upon stakeholders to intensify efforts in providing the necessary resources, policies, and support for employees.

    The alliance issued the statement to join the global community in commemorating the 2024 World Mental Health Day under the theme: “Mental Health at Work: It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.”

    The theme reminded players of the urgent need to create a supportive work environment that promotes mental well-being, ensuring employees can thrive in both their professional and personal lives.

    Mwakasungula stated that workplace mental health has become a growing concern, with millions of workers nationally and worldwide affected by mental health challenges.

    She said key challenges fueling the problem include fear of being stigmatized preventing employees from seeking the support they need.

    “Additionally, mental health issues remain shrouded in silence, particularly in industries where high performance is expected. In many workplaces, employees lack access to mental health services such as counselling or wellness programs.  In developing countries like Malawi, these services are further constrained by limited healthcare infrastructure and cultural stigmas surrounding mental health,” she said.

    Mwakasungula further stated that the rise of burnout, especially in fast-paced work environments, has led to deteriorating mental health conditions for employees.

    She said long hours, unrealistic deadlines, and lack of support systems increase mental health problems.

    NCDAMW National Chairperson Maud Mwakasungula

    “In response to these challenges, we recognize both the government and civil society have taken steps to promote mental health awareness and support services in the workplace. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with other stakeholders, has been instrumental in integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems,” explained Mwakasungula.

    However, Mwakasungula emphasized that organizations such as the NCD Alliance Malawi and others have been at the forefront of promoting mental health awareness, advocating for workplace mental health policies, and providing direct support services.

    She said these efforts are contributing to a growing awareness of mental health issues and solutions within professional settings.

    She challenged employers to implement workplace policies that prioritize mental well-being, which includes providing access to counselling, mental health training for managers, and fostering a culture that supports mental health.

    Mwakasungula said there is a need for Malawians to break the silence surrounding mental health issues by promoting open conversations.

    “Reducing stigma is also essential to ensure employees feel safe and supported in seeking help because the fight for better mental health in the workplace requires coordinated efforts. Governments, businesses, NGOs, and healthcare providers must work together to create sustainable support systems and make mental health care accessible,” she narrated.

    The Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance (otherwise abbreviated as NCD Alliance Malawi) is a national civil society network with a common goal to reduce the burden of preventable morbidity and disability as well as avoidable deaths due to non-communicable diseases and injuries, including the broad scope of many non- communicable disease impacting the health of Malawians.