Malawi News Agency, Lilongwe (2025)

18/07/2025

Chakwera calls for urgent action to economic stability
Lilongwe, June 18: President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has called for urgent action to addressing economic challenges affecting the country saying such actions are key to achieving economic stability in the country.
He made the remarks Friday during Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) 60th anniversary celebrations held at Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.
He said there is need for achievers who can remove structural bottlenecks that hinder productivity and growth in the private sector and those who can fulfill the Central Banks’s mandate to achieve price and financial stability hence the call for action.
“When you look at the skyline of Lilongwe City, the imposition of RBM towers above the rest which is a reminder that this country’s institutions were established not only by talkers but doers and I dare say that time for doers to rise again has come,” he said.
He said the country needs go-getters who can put aside petty differences and forge alliances across institutions to create access to credit, to enable Small and Medium Enterprises growth and to facilitate investment in critical sectors.
He urged the Bank to be strong enough to regulate the country’s complex, growing and globally connected financial sector, support macroeconomic growth even in the turbulent times of global recessions, domestic shocks and the compounding effects of climate change, pandemics and geopolitical disruptions.
He, therefore, encouraged financial leaders to be bold enough to support the country’s recovery from the cycle of shocks that have placed the economy under enormous strain over the past decade.
“If those of you who are charged with running the Bank towards the achievement of Malawi 2063 are the new generation of doers we need, then I pledge you my full support,” Chakwera said.
Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Simplex Chithyola Banda, applauded the Bank over the great transformation it has undergone over the decades, saying it has expanded in size, scope and impact, evolving from traditional monetary authority into a dynamic institution that anchor macroeconomics stability.
RBM Governor, McDonald Mafuta Mwale, commended the President for championing economic stability in the country.
The 60th anniversary is being celebrated under the theme “Safeguarding Economic Stability for a Future of Innovation and inclusive Growth”.

By Eunice Disi Lole

18/07/2025

National Bank commits to promote Agribusiness SMEs

Kasungu, July 18, Mana: Head of Retail Banking Division at National Bank of Malawi (NBM), Oswin Kasunda, says Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the agribusiness value chain have a huge potential to help with generation of foreign exchange in the country.

Kasunda made the remarks in Kasungu on Friday during a business interaction between the bank and agri-business entities in the district.

He said NBM has a long history of agriculture financing and is ready to further support SMEs in the sector with working capital so that they grow their businesses by getting into value addition thereby manufacturing secondary products for export.

“For a long time, we have provided finance to our agriculture customers, from primary production of crops like maize and to***co including financing capital equipment like trucks and tractors.

“So, today, we have gone further, giving them another package so that they have working capital which they can use for agro-processing. We encourage value addition so that we export secondary products and earn foreign exchange,” Kasunda said.

He said apart from updating customers on new products and services from the bank, the session also acted as a platform for getting feedback from customers on the services that the bank offers.

“We are excited that we continue to engage our customers we don’t just believe in customers coming to the bank, but we also believe in engagement, going out and meeting them.

“That way, they will give us feedback on the products and services we are giving them,” he added.

Managing Director of Saju Agro-dealers, Julius Kamanga, hailed the bank for organizing the session saying it was an eye opener for the agribusiness SMEs.

“Most often, we as SMEs tend to shun the banks perhaps because we are not aware of the opportunities that they have for us to grow our businesses.

“Through this interaction, we have seen and appreciated that the bank can really help us. Of course, they need collateral and other things, but when we get organised and present our ideas to them, we will surely get assisted,” Kamanga said.

He said through bank financing, SMEs can help to generate forex through manufacturing ventures.

During the interaction which was themed ‘SME Agribusiness Working Capital Finance’, NBM also made presentations about its various digital banking services.

By Wanangwa Tembo

18/07/2025

Ulendo: A journey of music, inspiration

Lilongwe, July 18, Mana: Touch Entertainment, in collaboration with Youth Inspire, has organized the Ulendo Listening Party Concert, scheduled to take place Saturday at Kigali in Lilongwe.

The event celebrates Rudo Chakwera’s 25-year journey in the music industry and aims to inspire young artists and music lovers across the country.

The concert will also feature the official release of Ulendo, a joint EP by Rudo Chakwera and renowned Zambian gospel artist, Abel Chungu.

Speaking to Malawi News Agency (MANA), one of the event organizers, Victor Odilo popularly known as Sir Odilo, said the concert is more than just a music show.

He described it as a platform to bring together people of all ages and encourage the youth by showcasing limitless possibilities.

“The aim of the show is to engage with young people and inspire them beyond just letting them listen to our music.

“We want to show them that everything is possible. For example, I’m going to share the stage with Rudo Chakwera, someone who started music before I was even born,” said Odilo.

Youth Inspire Executive Director, Wisdom Banda, highlighted the value the event brings to young people saying it offers more than just music.

“This event will benefit the youth in many ways. It is not just about entertainment, it is a platform for inspiration through real stories of faith, resilience, and creativity. It also creates opportunities for connection.

“The session will encourage them to embrace their own journeys, spark new ideas, and build meaningful relationships with fellow creatives and dreamers,” he said.

The event will also feature performances by various artists including Kelvin Sings, Sir Creepy, Shammah Vocals, and KBG, just to mention a few.

By Dan Mhango

18/07/2025

Toast unveils soulful debut album Files

Blantyre, July 18, Mana: Celebrated Malawian hip-hop artist, Gomezgani Kambwiri popularly known by his stage name Toast, has dropped his highly anticipated eighteen-track album titled files.

The album, which has been released today, boasts collaborations with prominent artists such as Kim of diamonds, Sean Morgan and Viddix.

The artist said in an interview on Friday that the album is not a mere album but a statement, reminding people from all walks of life that hip-hop still breathes through truth, bars and legacy.

“Files is not just a project to me, it holds some of my lifetime stories. All the trials, tribulations, wins and losses brought me here and it is simply my soul embedded in a file,” he said.

He describes the album as raw and soulful exploration of resilience, identity and emotional survival by sharing his personal struggles and triumphs, painting a compelling portrait of an artist who has emerged stronger.

Toast rose to fame after releasing his hit song titled gold chain in 2015.

With Files, Toast marks a new chapter in his musical journey, one characterized by introspection, creativity and a deeper connection with his audience.

By Dyson Misoma

18/07/2025

Police arrest couple for illegal possession of a gun

Mangochi, July 18, Mana: Police at Chiponde in Mangochi have arrested Sakina Mustapha, 21, and her husband, Shukuran Maxon, 21, for being found in possession of a suspected offensive weapon, believed to be a pistol.

Mangochi Police Station Spokesperson, Inspector Amina Daudi confirmed the development on Friday in an interview, saying that the incident occurred on July 17, 2025, at Chiponde Trading Centre.

Daudi said that Mustapha was apprehended by members of the community who handed her over to Chiponde Police Unit after she allegedly stole second-hand clothes at the market.

"During a search in her handbag, police recovered the stolen clothes along with a suspected pistol inside an empty magazine.

When questioned, she claimed that the weapon belonged to her husband, who had accompanied her to the market but he fled the scene after his wife was caught.

"Following up on the lead, police arrested the husband later at his house. He has since admitted that he brought the firearm into the country from South Africa," said Daudi.

Meanwhile, Police in the district have commended the general community for their cooperation and vigilance in maintaining safety and security.

Mustapha comes from Mbalame Village, while Maxon hails from Kajeko Village, both under Traditional Authority Jalasi in Mangochi.

By Prisca Kasache

18/07/2025

Scotts Maphuma to perform at Beerland Festival

Lilongwe, July 18, Mana: All is set for the Beerland Festival at Money Men in Blantyre this month, where South African star Scotts Maphuma is scheduled to perform on July 26.

Scotts Maphuma is known for hits like Yebo Lapho, Beke le Beke, Uyaphampha Man and Cishe nga Posta. He is one of the most in demand Amapiano artists in South Africa, and his appearance at the Beerland Festival is expected to draw a large crowd.

The artist will be joined by some local stars like Temwah, Joe Ikon, Trappybeats, Deo Cruger, Way2savage and Chygo.

One of the Beerland Festival organizers, Thomas Chiphwanya, revealed that they have unveiled a surprise artist named Lyvwa, who has recently come into the spotlight following the release of his new single, Mabongwe, which has earned him widespread praise as a rising local musician.

“Young artists have also been given space to perform at the event, the likes of Yankie265, Mickie Platinumz and also Hoodrich Fatal.

These people have been given space so that they can be able to showcase their talents,” he said.

“Not every upcoming artist has been selected to perform at the event, but only those who perform Amapiano music since Scott performs Amapiano music,” he added.

One of the artists set to perform at the event, Lyvwa, said, “It is an incredible honor and a big moment for me as an artist. Scotts Maphuma is not just a star but a trendsetter in the Amapiano genre. Sharing the stage with him is both inspiring and humbling. It’s proof that hard work pays off and motivates me to keep pushing forward. I’m truly excited to bring my energy to the stage and connect with a wider audience.”

“This experience is definitely a stepping stone, performing alongside a major artist like Scotts exposes me to new audiences, opens doors for collaborations, and teaches me valuable lessons about stagecraft and professionalism.

It is the kind of moment that builds confidence, expands network and boosts one’s visibility not just in Malawi, but potentially across the region,” he added.

The show will also feature Dj Zuluz, Dj Happy and Dj Maighty Virus.

By Mervis Mwale

18/07/2025

MCP's Grezelda's husband buried in Nkhotakota

Nkhotakota, July 18, Mana: Hanson Hateeb Banda, who was husband to politician Grezelda Jeffrey who Joined the Malawi Congress Party last year has been laid to rest in his home District of Nkhotakota.

Banda died on Thursday at Mwaiwathu Private Hospital in Blantyre after succumbing to high blood pressure.

Speaking at the ceremony, Uladi M***a who represented President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera at the funeral, said the President sent his deepest condolences on the loss of a very humble and royal servant of the country who has served in various sectors from the Education, Revenue and the Energy sector where he retired his public service.

Born on August 9, 1960, Banda who is survived by 6 children and two grandchildren, retired from Egenco as Director of Human Resources and also worked for the Malawi Revenue Authority as Director of Administration and Muslim Association of Malawi before that.

Other notable faces at the funeral included Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, Jean Sendeza, Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda, Retired Justice Lyod Muhara and many others.

By Wongani Mkandawire

18/07/2025

Food inflation declines amid post-harvest supply improvements

Lilongwe, July 18, Mana: Economic analysts attribute the recent deceleration in food inflation, which has now dropped for four consecutive months, to post-harvest supply improvements, particularly in maize.

According to the National Statistical Office, the food inflation rate has decreased to 27.1%, down from 27.7% in the previous month.
Over the past four months, farmers have been selling their harvest from the last planting season, which has contributed to this decline.

Economic Analyst Bertha Chikadza has noted that this trend is encouraging, offering a glimmer of hope, especially regarding food prices, which have been a significant driver of overall inflation over the past year.

"This indicates that food prices are easing thanks to post-harvest supply improvements, especially in maize and legumes. It also reflects the positive outcomes of a tight monetary policy that has remained vigilant in the face of rising inflation," Disclosed Chikadza.

Chikadza added, "For the average Malawian, this provides a breather, as the rate of price increases has slowed for four consecutive months, meaning the cost of basic necessities, particularly food, has eased slightly."

However, Economic Analyst Mavuto Bamusi cautioned that the government must ensure it procures maize from farmers before they sell it to vendors, who often resell the same maize back to farmers at inflated prices.

"While this is good news, products need to be safeguarded. I want to warn vendors against buying maize only to sell it back to Malawians at higher prices. Traders should not exploit Malawians by purchasing food from them and selling it at inflated prices, as this could lead to a resurgence in food inflation."

This situation aligns with the Reserve Bank of Malawi’s earlier projections that inflation would moderate by mid-2025. The recent decline in food inflation, which fell from 32.7% in May to 31.6%, signals a potential path toward stability in the cost of living for Malawians.

By Nyandema Mhango

18/07/2025

Dyson Mthawanji returns with ‘Muyaya’

Mzimba, July 18, Mana: After a long break in continuity from the music scene, author-cum-musician Dyson Mthawanji has returned with a new single titled Muyaya.
The song, which was released last week, is a love package in which one person appreciates the love of their loved one.

The song describes the tough journey that the couple has passed through to finally achieve financial success together.

The first verse of the song goes: Zaka khumi zatha / Tili limodzi babe, Ena anasiyana / Banja silophweka, Kumbuka tikuvutika / Lero chuma tachipeza,Wapeza mkazi wapeza chinthu chabwino.

In an interview on Thursday, the Lilongwe based artist said the song was recorded by Lilongwe based Macia at Area 25.

He expressed happiness for releasing the new song after some months and attributed his absence to music to other commitments.

“I am happy that the new song is finally here. It’s about eight months since I dropped a song. I promise my fans to be consistent in releasing new songs.

“This song is a gift to all couples out there. Enjoy Muyaya,” said Mthawanji.

The song goes further to appreciate the lover who is always supportive during difficult times such as business failure.

The last verse goes: Sukulu yanga inali yochepa / Unandilimbikitsa, Bizinesi itaduka / Unandilimbikitsa, Osokoneza anayesetsa / Koma zinawakanika, Amkafuna kutisokoneza / Koma zinawakanika.

Mthawanji launched his music career in 2021 when he invaded the industry with his debut song, Tiye, in which he featured the urban reggae artist Sangie.

Mthawanji went ahead to release more singles namely Kwacha, Ndilondola, Stape and Far Away.

Asked on why he decided to do it single handedly having set a precedence of featuring other artists, Mthawanji said he will continue engaging other artists.

“Yes its true, in my previous offerings I have engaged other artists. It’s a trend I will continue although I will also be producing songs done by myself. So, people should expect some other songs to be done by myself while others I will continue engaging some other artists,” said Mthawanji.

By Joel Phiri

18/07/2025

Likoma Team Adventure partners Fit and Fun Adventure Club to promote tourism

Likoma, July 18, Mana: Likoma Team Adventure, in partnership with Fit and Fun Adventure Club from Lilongwe, explored Likoma District by visiting some historical sites in the district as one way of promoting tourism on the island district.

In an interview Thursday, Director for Likoma Team Adventure, Yusufu Asima, said the joint expedition, which attracted over 30 participants, engaged in various activities such as hiking, boat riding, snorkeling, visiting historical sites among others.

“The goal of the collaboration was to promote Likoma as a premier adventure tourism destination while fostering youth participation in eco-tourism and sustainable development while at the same time it was fun to have a joint adventure with the team from Lilongwe,” said Yusufu.

He said, apart from exploring the island, the adventure promoted culture by preparing traditional foods which were served.
Chioda, which is a traditional dance, was performed during the program.

Fit and Fun Adventure Club Manager, Mathews Mizati, said his team was impressed with the visit saying it was a great experience to visit the island which, he said, has amazing tourist attraction sites.

“We have enjoyed everything about the island. We had fun because we hiked Masolosolo, the tallest mountain in Likoma. We had a boat ride, swimming, sunset view. We were also here for recreation. Everything was just good and we hope to visit again very soon,” said Mizati.

He recommended Likoma Team Adventure for being vigilant in promoting tourism through its page saying they are putting the island on the map.

By Ireen Mseteka

18/07/2025

Pastor, accomplice jailed 6-years for possessing a Pangolin

Mangochi, July 18, Mana: Mangochi Senior Resident Magistrates Court has convicted and sentenced a pastor and his accomplice to six years imprisonment with hard labour for possessing a live Pangolin, contrary to Section 110(b) of the National Parks and Wildlife Act.

The court heard through Mangochi Police Station Prosecution Officer (SPO), Inspector Amos Mwase, that on the evening of July 10, 2025, detectives from Mangochi Police Station received a tip-off from community members that Andrew Kombo, 33, a pastor at Malindi Faith Ministries Church, and James Wilson, 55, were in possession of a pangolin and were offering it for sale at Ntagaluka Village in Traditional Authority Chowe, Mangochi.

"The police in collaboration with officials from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife reacting to the information, rushed to the scene and apprehended the duo upon finding them with the live Pangolin hidden in a black laptop bag," said Mwase.

Appearing before Senior Resident Magistrate Muhammad Chande, the two admitted to the charges leveled against them which prompted the court to sentence them upon their own plea to guilty.

During mitigation, the two convicts prayed for clemency citing that they are bread winners for their families.

However, in his submission, Prosecutor Mwase argued for stiff penalty by reminding the court that the nature of the offence was a serious one that threatens the protection of endangered species and disturbs efforts to preserve the environment and promote wildlife-based tourism.

In his ruling, Senior Resident Magistrate Chande sided with the prosecution and sentenced Kombo and Wilson to six years IHL to deter others from committing similar offences.

Pastor Andrew Kombo hails from Khuyu Village, Traditional Authority Mkumba in Likoma, while James Wilson comes from Mtiwule Village, Traditional Authority Makanjira in Mangochi.

By Ralph Charles Chinomba

18/07/2025

Motorcyclist murdered in Ntchisi

Ntchisi, July 18, Mana: Police in Ntchisi are looking for a suspect who allegedly attacked and murdered Nthawanji Kamphanga, 38, who was a motorcycle taxi operator.

Ntchisi Police Public Relations Officer, Salome Zgambo, told Malawi News Agency (MANA) Thursday that Nthawanji was last seen on July 15, 2025 when he was hired by a man identified as Brino Kathumba to take him to Masanya Village.

“The deceased’s family launched a search after trying his mobile cellphone several times which was out of reach.

"Nthawanji’s body was later found on July 17, 2025, lying along Mpompha riverbank while his King Lion motorcycle and cellphone were nowhere to be found," she said.

She said police investigation disclosed marks of violence on his body, a tight string around his neck and a depressed skull.

Postmortem examination results revealed that Nthawanji's death was due to strangulation.

Police has since advised motorcycle taxi operators to be cautious when accepting transport offers, and avoid operating during late hours for safety.

Chisomo Masaiti Chiusiwa

Malawi News Agency

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