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Strict ID requirement enforced for JCE candidates to curb examination malpractice

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By Burnett Munthali

Students sitting for the Junior Certificate of Education (JCE) examinations are now required to present valid identification cards issued by the Malawi National Examinations Board (MANEB).

The ID must bear the candidate’s photograph and accurate personal details to ensure they are the rightful individuals registered for the examination.

This new enforcement aims to enhance transparency and integrity during the examination process across the country.



Only students who produce their MANEB ID cards are being allowed entry into examination rooms.

The move is part of a broader effort by MANEB to prevent impersonation and other forms of cheating during national examinations.

In previous years, cases of candidates sitting for exams on behalf of others have been reported, prompting the board to tighten security measures.

Examination supervisors and invigilators have been instructed to strictly verify each student’s identity before allowing them to sit for the papers.

This policy is expected to improve accountability and uphold the credibility of Malawi’s education system.

Parents, teachers, and school administrators have also been urged to support the initiative by ensuring that all candidates obtain and carry their MANEB-issued IDs.

As the JCE examinations continue, it is hoped that such reforms will discourage malpractice and promote a culture of honesty and merit among students.

Malawi’s new fuel deal saves $100 per metric tonne

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By Rahim Abdul

The National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) has announced that the country’s new Government-to-Government (G2G) fuel procurement deal is saving Malawi approximately $100 per metric tonne compared to previous tender-based imports.

The deal with OQ Trading of Oman and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) has significantly reduced diesel and petrol premiums.



Under the new arrangement, diesel CIF premiums have dropped to $77.17 per metric tonne, and petrol premiums have decreased to $69.89 per metric tonne.

In contrast, the old system had premiums of $175.71 for diesel and $185.90 for petrol.

NOCMA spokesperson Raymond Likambale assured Malawians that the first vessels under the deal are expected to dock at Tanga in Tanzania and Beira in Mozambique this month, and fuel will be transported by road and rail into Malawi.

Inspections and discharge will proceed immediately, with upliftment to follow without delay.

The Consumers Association of Malawi has welcomed the development, urging NOCMA to maximize the gains from the G2G deal.

Executive Director John Kapito emphasized the importance of ensuring that the savings are passed on to consumers.

The new fuel deal is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy and consumers. With the reduced premiums, Malawi can expect to save significantly on fuel imports, which could lead to lower fuel prices and reduced costs for consumers.

The G2G deal is a strategic move by the Malawian government to secure more favorable terms for fuel imports.

Vitumbiko Mumba speaks out: “I did not sponsor thugs” — Minister exposes alleged political plot in Mzimba Central

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By Burnett Munthali

Minister Vitumbiko Mumba has taken to his official Facebook page to address allegations linking him to political violence during the recently disrupted primary election in Mzimba Central Constituency.

In a strongly worded post, Mumba denied sponsoring any thugs and instead accused his political rivals of orchestrating the entire disturbance for propaganda purposes.

“They said I sponsored thugs to disturb the staged Primary Election in Mzimba Central Constituency,” he wrote.

Vitumbiko Mumba


“Yet they are the ones who sponsored the thugs and violence,” he continued, pointing readers to photographic evidence circulating online and featured on The Nation Online page.

He referenced a widely circulated video involving a female councillor who recorded herself during the chaos, seemingly attempting to frame him.

In the clip, the councillor is heard saying in Tumbuka, “Vigabenga vya Mumba vyasuzga kuno” — which translates to “Mumba’s thugs have caused chaos here.”

However, Mumba questions the authenticity of the video, noting that shortly afterward, the same councillor can be heard instructing people not to throw stones yet, saying “time is not yet.”

“Watch that video closely,” Mumba urged. “Anyone running for his/her dear life can’t have time to do all those recordings in that manner.”

He went on to suggest that the councillor’s actions were rewarded with a seat on the Board of Directors at Blantyre Water Board, implying that the appointment was a payoff for her loyalty to her political masters.

“This is how they operate—rewarding deception and manipulation,” he stated.

Mumba drew parallels to another politically charged incident that took place during the Mzuzu Vendors’ demonstrations.

He recalled how a similar strategy was used: panga-wielding thugs were sent to infiltrate and incite chaos under the pretext of opposing him.

“But it backfired,” Mumba declared.

He said the Mzuzu Vendors saw through the plan and refused to be used.

The vendors later held a press conference in which they cleared Mumba’s name and exposed the high-ranking MCP officials behind the violent plot.

In closing, Mumba expressed confidence that truth would continue to prevail, ending his post with the powerful hashtag: #LightAlwaysConquersDarkness.

Malawian film industry thrives with ‘Welcome to Maula Prison

By Rahim Abdul

The Film Association of Malawi (FAMA) is abuzz with excitement over the newly released movie ‘Welcome to Maula Prison’, a film that has been hailed as groundbreaking for its gripping storyline and high production quality.

According to Dorothy Kingston, FAMA’s president, this film marks a significant milestone in the growth of Malawi’s film industry.

Kingston praised local filmmakers for pushing the boundaries of storytelling and production quality, urging them to continue innovating and producing high-quality content.



She emphasized the importance of creativity and talent in shaping the future of Malawian cinema.

The film, penned by Kendall Kamwendo and Lawrence Nyale, sheds light on corrupt practices within security agencies.

Its thought-provoking narrative has resonated with audiences, sparking conversations about the issues that plague the country’s justice system.

‘Welcome to Maula Prison’ has not only captured the attention of local film enthusiasts but has also gained international recognition.

Its success serves as a testament to the talent and dedication of Malawian filmmakers, who are determined to make their mark on the global film industry.

The film’s impact is evident, having garnered 1 million YouTube views in just two days.

Sycamore Consult Limited to host sixth Annual Wealth Creation Conference in August

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By Chisomo Phiri

Sycamore Consult Limited says is set to host the sixth edition of its Annual Wealth Creation Conference on August 1,2025 at Amaryllis Hotel in Blantyre.

In an interview with 247 Malawi News, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Nelson Mkwende,said the conference provides a platform for corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and youth change-makers to engage with bold and practical strategies for building inclusive and sustainable wealth in today’s evolving economic landscape.



“This will be more than just a gathering.It is a national intervention.

“This high-level forum, developed as a corporate social responsibility initiative, underscores Sycamore Consult’s commitment to developing Malawi’s intellectual, financial, and innovation capital,” said Mkwende.

To be held under the theme ‘Innovate, Invest, Impact — Blueprint for a New World’ the event will feature, founder of Ntalimanja Holdings,Napoleon Dzombe as guest of honour.

Other keynote speakers will include Mpatsa Holdings Chairperson Jimmy Korea Mpatsa, Reunion Insurance Company founder Dorothy Chapeyama, and Ekhaya Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer Chikondi Annabel Mpinganjira.

Also scheduled to speak at the conference are Simama Industries Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bishop Abraham John Simama, Translation Science Champion Dr. Alice Mbewe, Precious Medical International CEO Dr. Gertrude Mateyu, and Sycamore Consult and Sycamore Credit Limited CEO Audrey Mwala.