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Malawi’s Ad-Hoc Committee on Chikangawa Plane Crash completes three-week hearings in Lilongwe

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Malawi’s Ad-Hoc Committee on Chikangawa Plane Crash completes three-week hearings in Lilongwe



By Burnett Munthali 

The Parliament of Malawi has released the programme for its Ad-Hoc Committee tasked with investigating the Chikangawa plane crash. 

The committee’s hearings are scheduled to run from 15th June to 1st July, 2026. 

All proceedings will be held at the Parliament Building in Lilongwe, the capital city. 

According to the official document, the inquiry is set to commence on Day 1, Monday, 15th June, 2026. 

The programme was issued by the Parliament of Malawi, located at Parliament Building, Private Bag B362, Lilongwe. 

The document is dated June 2026 and bears the national coat of arms of Malawi at the top. 

The establishment of the Ad-Hoc Committee signals Parliament’s formal step toward examining the circumstances surrounding the Chikangawa plane crash. 

On Day 2, Tuesday 16th June 2026, the committee will hold in-house discussions from 09:30 to 12:30, followed by a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00. 

The afternoon session on the same day will resume with further in-house discussions from 14:00 to 17:00, marking the end of Day Two. 

Day 3, Wednesday 17th June 2026, will feature witness testimony beginning with Honourable Charles Mhango, Minister of Justice, from 09:30 to 10:45. 

Dr. Justin Saidi, Chief Secretary to Government, is scheduled to testify from 11:00 to 12:30. 

Chilima



After a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Mr. Charles Kasambabala will appear before the committee from 14:00 to 15:30. 

The final witness for the day, Mr. Wapona Kita, will give evidence from 15:30 to 17:00, concluding Day Three. 

On Day 4, Thursday 18th June 2026, the committee will hear from Mr. Eric E. Yesaya, Principal Secretary for Administration in the Office of the Vice President, from 09:30 to 10:30. 

Dr. Luckie Sikwese, former Secretary to the Vice President, is set to testify from 10:30 to 11:30. 

Mr. Joshua Varela, former Special Advisor in the Office of the Vice President, will follow from 11:30 to 12:30. 

The schedule also indicates opening testimony and later examination of the witnesses from 11:00 to 13:00. 

Following the break, Ms. Chimwemwe Kachikuwo, former Special Assistant for Special Duties in the Office of the Vice President, is set to testify from 14:00 to 15:00. 

Ms. Winnie Nyondo, also a former Special Assistant in the Office of the Vice President, will appear before the committee from 15:00 to 16:00. 

The committee has allocated the final hour of Day 4, from 16:00 to 17:00, for the evaluation of witness accounts. 

Day 5, Friday 19th June 2026, will open with testimony from Eng. David Mzandu, former Secretary for Transport and Public Works, between 09:30 and 10:30. 

Mr. James Chiusiwa, former Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Defense, is scheduled to give evidence from 10:30 to 11:30. 

Dr. Steven Kayuni, also a former Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Defense, will follow from 11:30 to 12:30. 

After a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Dr. Mwaviwawo Polepole, former Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will testify from 14:00 to 15:00. 

Mr. Gripps Chimzimu, APO in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is slated to appear from 15:00 to 16:00. 

The committee will again conclude the day with an evaluation of witness accounts from 16:00 to 17:00, marking the end of Day Five. 

The schedule notes that this session brings Week One of the inquiry to a close, with further proceedings expected in Week Two. 

The Ad-Hoc Committee probing the Chikangawa plane crash will resume hearings on Monday, 22nd June 2026, marking the start of Day Six. 

Dr. Feston Kaupa, Minister of Defence, is scheduled to give evidence from 09:30 to 10:30. 

Hon. Harry Mkandawire, former Minister of Defence, will appear before the committee from 10:30 to 12:30. 

After a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Hon. Harry Mkandawire will return to continue his testimony until 17:00, concluding Day Six. 

Day Seven on Tuesday, 23rd June 2026, will open with General George Jafu, Commander of the Malawi Defence Force, testifying from 09:00 to 10:30. 

General Paul Valentino Phiri, former Commander of the Malawi Defence Force, is set to testify from 10:45 to 12:30. 

Following a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Brigadier General Robray Ismael, Air Force Commander of the Malawi Air Force, will give evidence from 14:00 to 15:00. 

Major General Harrison Kandula, Deputy Air Force Commander at Zomba Air Base, will appear from 15:30 to 17:00, marking the end of Day Seven. 

On Day Eight, Wednesday 24th June 2026, Colonel Alex Mwachande, Base Commander at Zomba Air Base, is scheduled to testify from 09:00 to 10:30. 

Captain Henry Nthani, former Operations and Training Officer at Zomba Air Base, will follow from 10:45 to 12:30. 

After a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Major Amin Kalinga, former Operations and Training officer, will give testimony from 14:00 to 15:00. 

Captain George Ngo’ma, Wing Commander Technical Wing and Aircraft Technician, is scheduled to testify from 15:30 to 17:00. 

This session marks the end of Day Eight of the inquiry. 

Day Nine, Thursday 25th June 2026, will begin with Colonel Madi Pilo, Director of Maintenance and Technical Support for the Malawi Air Force, giving evidence from 09:00 to 10:30. 

Major Daud Mtambo, Squadron Leader for Logistic Aircraft Maintenance at Zomba Air Base, is set to appear from 10:45 to 12:30. 

After a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Major Lt. Col Mathews Nyirenda (Rtd), Engineer at Zomba Air Base, will testify from 14:00 to 15:00. 

Colonel Humphreys Mkandawire (Rtd), Avionics Engineer at Zomba Air Base, will follow from 15:30 to 17:00, concluding Day Nine. 

On Day Ten, Friday 26th June 2026, Lt Col Harold Mapando, Pilot SASO with the Malawi Air Force, is scheduled to testify from 09:00 to 10:30. 

Major General Ian Chirwa, former AFC and Pilot at Zomba Air Base, will give evidence from 10:45 to 12:30. 

Following a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Private Mumbuza, Flight Information Officer at Zomba Air Base, will appear before the committee from 14:00 to 15:00. 

This session will mark the end of Day Ten, with Day Eleven set to commence on Monday, 29th June 2026. 

The Ad-Hoc Committee will hear from Dr. Dokani Ngwira, former Director General of the National Intelligence Service, on Day 11 from 09:00 to 10:30. 

Mrs. Taona P.C. Aidin, spouse to the late Major Wales Aidin, an aircraft engineer, is scheduled to give opening testimony and later face examination from 10:45 to 12:30. 

After a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Mrs. Mary Nkhamanyachi Chilima, spouse to the late Vice President, will testify from 14:00 to 17:00, marking the end of Day 11. 

Day 12, Tuesday 30th June 2026, will focus on the continuation of family testimonial evidence. 

Mr. Creto Kanyemba, uncle to the late Dr. Dan Kanyemba, a medical officer, is set to appear from 09:00 to 10:30. 

Mrs. Martha Kapheni, spouse to the late Mr. Lucas Kapheni, guard commander, will give evidence from 10:45 to 12:30. 

Following a lunch break from 12:30 to 14:00, Mrs. Lucy Dixon, daughter to the late Madam Patricia Dzimbiri, former First Lady of Malawi, will testify from 14:00 to 15:00. 

Mr. Mabyuto Ngwiliwili, spouse to the late Major Flora Selemani, co-pilot, is scheduled from 15:30 to 17:00. 

Mr. Nathan Sambalopa, brother to Colonel Owen Sambalopa, pilot-in-command, will close Day 12 with testimony from 17:00 to 17:30. 

Day 13, Wednesday 1st July 2026, will begin with Ms. Sarah Lapukeni, spouse to the late Abdul Lapukeni, deputy chief of protocol, testifying from 09:00 to 10:30. 

The committee will then hold in-house discussions from 11:00 to 12:30 before breaking for lunch from 12:30 to 14:00. 

The Ad-Hoc Committee will hold in-house discussions from 14:00 to 17:00 on the final day of its scheduled hearings. 

This session marks the last activity on the committee’s programme. 

With the conclusion of these deliberations, the inquiry will officially come to an end.

Malawian woman gives birth en route home from South Africa, receives care

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Malawian woman gives birth en route home from South Africa, receives care

By Burnett Munthali 

One of the Malawians returning from South Africa, Halima Thom from Nsanje, has given birth while traveling back home. 

Thom went into labor on the journey and delivered her baby before reaching Malawi. 

She has expressed gratitude to the government and security personnel for the assistance she received during recovery and for the care provided to both her and the newborn. 

Thom said the support came at a critical time and helped ensure she and her baby were safe after the unexpected delivery on the road. 

Halima Thom



An official from the Department of Disaster Management Affairs, Charles Matabwa, said the department is doing everything possible to ensure that all returnees receive the necessary assistance. 

He stated that arrangements have been put in place to provide medical care, shelter, and basic supplies to those arriving back in the country. 

As of now, nine buses have arrived in Malawi since yesterday, bringing a total of 753 people home. 

Among those who have arrived, nine women are pregnant and are receiving attention from health teams at the reception points. 

Officials said they are working to ensure expectant mothers and other vulnerable returnees are prioritized for immediate care.

Digital tools seen as bridge for regional trade and growth

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Digital tools seen as bridge for regional trade and growth


By Jones Gadama

Government and marketing experts are urging African countries to lean into digital marketing and artificial intelligence as key drivers for industrial growth, export expansion and deeper regional integration.

Speaking at the 2026 Regional Winter School for Marketing Associations in Lilongwe, Secretary for Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism Bright Molande said technology adoption can no longer be treated as optional.

He argued that Malawi and its neighbors must modernize marketing approaches and work more closely to tap into shared economic opportunities.

Molande told delegates from Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Ghana that traditional marketing models are being outpaced by digital platforms.

Bright Molande


He pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area as a gateway for intra-African commerce, but said countries need stronger brands and digital skills to compete effectively.

“Malawi remains committed to building a productive and export-oriented economy through strong brands, innovation and digital marketing skills,” he said.

The four-day winter school was organized under the theme “Marketing in the Digital AI Era” following consultations between marketing bodies in the participating countries. Institute of Marketers in Malawi President George Damson said the forum was created to give professionals practical tools to improve productivity and decision-making in a fast-changing market.

AI specialist Gillian Hannah led a session on digital transformation, encouraging firms to integrate AI into daily operations. She stressed that strategic use of AI can streamline processes, reduce costs and give businesses better insights for planning.

The message resonated with marketers who are grappling with how to reach customers more efficiently across borders.

Damson added that the initiative was not just about training, but about building a network of professionals who can exchange ideas and support regional economic growth. Delegates discussed how digital strategies can help small and medium enterprises export more, attract investment, and position African products competitively.

Government officials said the timing is critical as Malawi pushes to diversify exports and reduce overreliance on tobacco.

By equipping marketers with modern tools, authorities hope to boost value addition and make “Made in Malawi” brands more visible in regional and global markets.

The Winter School closed with calls for continued collaboration between the public sector, private firms and professional bodies to ensure digital innovation translates into real trade gains.

NBM strengthens partnerships at 2026 stakeholder engagement

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NBM strengthens partnerships at 2026 stakeholder engagement


By Jones Gadama

National Bank of Malawi plc has reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration and sustainable development after holding its annual stakeholder engagement on Tuesday, 9th June 2026 at Mount Soche Hotel in Blantyre.

The event, held under the theme “Strengthening Value and…”, brought together key players from banking, government, business and civil society.

Stakeholders used the forum to reflect on progress made by the bank and align on priorities for the year ahead.

NBM Chief Executive Officer Harold Jiya set the tone with a strategic address that outlined key updates and the bank’s direction for 2026.

Jiya



He was followed by Chief Financial Officer Daniel Jere, who walked participants through the bank’s financial performance and strategic priorities.

Head of Legal Services and Company Secretary Zuma Mhike emphasized governance and compliance, underscoring NBM’s commitment to accountability and ethical leadership.

The engagement was designed as an open dialogue. Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager Akossa Hiwa hosted and guided discussions to keep stakeholders connected throughout the session.

Senior executives including Head of Corporate Banking Bernard Masel and Chief Risk Officer Charles Ufuya engaged directly with participants, with Masel highlighting collaboration opportunities and Ufuya explaining how effective risk management enables sustainable growth rather than limiting it.

Stakeholder participation was active across all segments.

Representatives from various sectors added practical insights to conversations on national development, sustainable growth and partnership. Noel Kadzakumanja, Chief Executive Officer of Stockbrokers Malawi Limited, was among industry leaders who took part in the discussions.

The session was received warmly, with organizers noting attentive expressions and active participation as signs of shared ownership of the bank’s direction.

The formal program extended into a relaxed networking session over cocktails.

NBM said such exchanges often lay the foundation for lasting partnerships and trust, and create space for relationship-building beyond the formal agenda.

NBM plc described the 2026 engagement as a reaffirmation of its role as a partner in Malawi’s development.

The bank stressed that strong relationships with stakeholders remain central to supporting sustainable national growth.

National Bank of Malawi plc is regulated by the Reserve Bank of Malawi and is a member of the FNB Group.

Standard Bank backs NERP, says execution must become Malawi’s strategy

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Standard Bank backs NERP, says execution must become Malawi’s strategy

By Jones Gadama

Standard Bank plc has pledged stronger support for Malawi’s National Economic Recovery Plan, arguing that the country’s economic turnaround will depend less on new policies and more on disciplined implementation and private sector partnership.

Speaking through Chief Executive Phillip Madinga, who also serves as President of the Bankers Association of Malawi, Standard Bank said the NERP provides a credible foundation but warned that confidence and execution will determine its success.

“Malawi’s economic recovery hinges on confidence. Confidence in its fiscal discipline, faith in a stable foreign exchange market, assurance in governance systems and in the commitments made by institutions,” Madinga stated.

The bank outlined five critical requirements for implementation drawn from a recent workshop: clear prioritisation of high-impact interventions, strong coordination across institutions, accountability and performance management, transparency in public financial management, and rigorous monitoring with course correction. “In simple terms, execution must become the strategy,” Madinga said.

Standard Bank cited practical examples of public-private partnerships already delivering results. As lead arranger for funding the Dr Saulos Klaus Chilima Highway, the bank demonstrated how innovative financing can unlock large-scale infrastructure.

It also noted pilot support for fuel imports that helped maintain energy supply and economic stability during periods of pressure.

The financial institution said the private sector is ready to partner with government, development partners and civil society to translate the NERP into tangible outcomes such as jobs, business growth, higher exports and improved livelihoods.

Madinga

Madinga added that Standard Bank will deploy capital, support enterprise development and enable inclusive growth as part of its commitment to Malawi.

On financial inclusion, the bank highlighted digital platforms like Business Online and Enterprise Online, plus its 247 banking channels, as tools equipping businesses and individuals to operate more effectively.

The recent rollout of agency banking was described as a critical step in bringing services closer to communities and reducing barriers for underserved and unbanked Malawians.

Market data published alongside the commentary showed mixed regional performance.

Kenya’s stock market recorded a 13.39% year-to-date return as of 16 June 2025, while South Africa was down 0.24%, Zambia down 9.93% and Malawi down 14.12%. The World Bank projects Malawi’s real GDP growth to rise gradually from 1.9% in 2025 to 3.0% by 2028.

Madinga concluded that while the path to recovery will not be easy, discipline, partnership and a relentless focus on execution can make it achievable.

“As a purpose-driven organisation, Standard Bank is clear in our role: Malawi is our home, and we are committed to driving her growth.”

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