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Atupele Muluzi: UDF to be the torchbearer in the 2025 elections

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By Burnett Munthali

Blantyre, Malawi — Atupele Muluzi, the newly elected President of the United Democratic Front (UDF), has declared that his party will serve as the torchbearer in the upcoming 2025 elections. Muluzi made this statement during the UDF National Convention, emphasizing that the party is committed to leading the political landscape in Malawi and will not be overshadowed by other political entities.

Muluzi asserted that the UDF is ready to take the reins and provide a viable alternative for Malawians seeking effective governance and development. “We must be the torchbearers of hope and progress for our people. The UDF stands ready to reclaim its position as a leader in Malawi’s political arena,” he said, rallying party members to unite and work towards this vision.

Atupele Muluzi

The new UDF president expressed confidence in the party’s policies and the capabilities of its members to bring about positive change in the country. He encouraged the youth and other marginalized groups to engage actively in the political process and ensure their voices are heard in shaping Malawi’s future.

Muluzi’s remarks come at a time when the political atmosphere in Malawi is highly charged, with various parties gearing up for the next general elections. He stressed that the UDF’s commitment to democracy and inclusivity will be key in attracting support from voters across the nation.

With his leadership, Muluzi aims to revitalize the UDF and strengthen its platform as a beacon of hope for those disillusioned by the current political climate. “Our focus will be on addressing the pressing issues that affect our communities and creating an environment where every Malawian can thrive,” he stated.

As the 2025 elections approach, the UDF, under Muluzi’s guidance, seeks to position itself as a formidable force, ready to lead Malawi towards sustainable development and a brighter future for all citizens.

_Burnett Munthali is a political analyst and journalist covering Malawian politics and socio-economic issues._

#UDFConvention: Lilian Patel appointed UDF Chairperson as Bakili Muluzi becomes party patron

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By Burnett Munthali

Blantyre, Malawi — Lilian Patel, the former leader of the United Democratic Front (UDF), has been appointed as the Chairperson of the party during the ongoing UDF National Convention at COMESA Hall in Blantyre. Patel succeeds Bakili Muluzi, the former President of Malawi, who has held the position of UDF Chairperson for many years.

In her new role, Patel is expected to guide the party as it prepares for the 2025 general elections. Her appointment is seen as a strategic move to ensure the continuity of leadership and a smooth transition within the party.



As Patel steps into her new role, Bakili Muluzi has now been named the Patron of the UDF, a symbolic and advisory position that acknowledges his longstanding contribution to the party. Muluzi, who founded the UDF and served as its first president, remains a key figure within the party, and his role as Patron will allow him to continue offering guidance and support.

The appointment of Patel marks a significant moment in the UDF’s history, as the party seeks to strengthen its position and appeal to a broader base of voters ahead of the next elections.

MV Chambo Sets Sail Again on Lake Malawi, Easing Travel Woes for Likoma and Chizumulu Islanders

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By Twink Jones Gadama

After a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mozambican vessel, MV Chambo, has resumed its operations on Lake Malawi, bringing relief to travelers and businesspeople from Likoma and Chizumulu Islands.

The vessel’s return was initially scheduled for September 25 but was delayed due to the expiry of its life rafts.

However, following necessary maintenance and safety checks, MV Chambo set sail once again, reinstating its vital transportation link between Mozambique, Likoma, Chizumulu, and the mainland.

MV Chambo

According to Watson Maingo, spokesperson for the Ministry of Transport, the resumption of MV Chambo’s services will significantly alleviate congestion faced by travelers from the islands.

“The vessel will provide an alternative route for people traveling to and from Likoma and Chizumulu, reducing reliance on the Illala, which only docks once a week,” Maingo explained.

MV Chambo’s revised schedule will see it sail from Mozambique to Nkhatabay via Likoma and Chizumulu on Wednesdays and return to Mozambique via the same route on Thursdays.

This regular service will enable islanders to access the mainland more efficiently, facilitating trade, commerce, and social interactions.

Emmanuel Saidi, a Likoma-based businessperson, welcomed the vessel’s return, citing the challenges faced during its absence. “Traveling was difficult, as the Illala only comes once a week.

With MV Chambo operating again, things will be easier for us to reach the mainland with our businesses on time,” Saidi remarked.

The resumption of MV Chambo’s operations is expected to boost economic activity in the region.

Island-based entrepreneurs will now have more opportunities to transport goods and services to the mainland, enhancing trade and commerce.

Likoma District Commissioner, Emmanuel Bambe, expressed gratitude to the Mozambican government for reinstating the vessel’s services.

“This development will improve the lives of our people, facilitating travel, trade, and access to essential services,” Bambe said.

The return of MV Chambo also underscores the strengthening bilateral relations between Malawi and Mozambique.

The vessel’s operations demonstrate the two countries’ commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and economic integration.

Passengers and cargo will benefit from competitive pricing and flexible scheduling.

MV Chambo’s capacity to transport both people and goods will alleviate pressure on existing transportation infrastructure, promoting economic growth and social development.

As MV Chambo sets sail once again on Lake Malawi, the people of Likoma and Chizumulu Islands look forward to improved connectivity, enhanced economic opportunities, and a brighter future.

Malawi Seeks Sustainable Food Systems Amidst El Niño Crisis

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By Twink Jones Gadama

Malawi’s Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs, Charles Kalemba, has made a passionate appeal to donors to support the country in building sustainable food systems.

This call to action comes as Malawi faces a severe food insecurity crisis, exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon.

Speaking in Blantyre during a joint media briefing with the World Food Program (WFP) Malawi and other donors, Kalemba emphasized that handouts are not a viable long-term solution to the current challenges.

“We need sustainable food systems that can produce enough food at all times,” he stressed.

The numbers are staggering: over 5.7 million people are currently facing food insecurity, according to projections by the Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC).

Kalemba warned that this situation will persist unless sustainable measures are implemented.

In response to the crisis, the WFP has launched an emergency response program, securing funding to purchase 33,000 metric tons of maize and 317 metric tons of Super Cereal Plus, a corn-soya blend distributed to children.

Paul Turnbull, WFP Malawi Country Director, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the crisis.

“We are committed to supporting Malawi in building resilient food systems,” he said.

Siri Frette Allsted, Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Norway, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for unity among the international community in responding to the crisis.

Norway has pledged increased support for both immediate and sustainable initiatives.

Malawi’s food systems face numerous challenges, including climate change, environmental degradation, and demographic pressures.

To address these issues, experts recommend promoting production of nutrient-rich foods, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices, and supporting farmers with inputs and extension services.

The Malawi government has shown commitment to transforming the country’s food systems, recognizing the importance of sustainable agriculture and food production.

However, more support is needed from the international community to ensure the success of these initiatives.

As Malawi struggles to cope with the El Niño crisis, the need for sustainable food systems has never been more pressing.

The international community must come together to support Malawi in building resilient food systems that can withstand future challenges.

As Malawi works towards building sustainable food systems, the international community must stand in solidarity with the country. Together, we can ensure that MaPartnerd more resilient from this crisis

Nkhatabay District Council Blocks Sale of Kaning’ina Forest Reserve Land

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By Twink Jones Gadama

In a bold move to protect Malawi’s natural resources, the Nkhatabay District Council has stopped Traditional Authority (T/A) Thula from selling a portion of the Kaning’ina Forest Reserve to Shepherd Bushiri’s Goshen Trust.

The council’s decision comes after it was revealed that T/A Thula and his subordinates were attempting to sell off the land, which is designated as public property.

The council emphasized that the land belongs to the Kaning’ina forest reserve and, as such, cannot be sold by chiefs.



Designated as a forest reserve in 1935, the Kaning’ina Forest Reserve covers an area of 143.02 km² and is managed by the government.

The reserve is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting local ecosystems.

The council’s actions have been praised by environmentalists and local communities, who recognize the importance of preserving Malawi’s natural resources.

Deforestation and land degradation are significant concerns in Malawi, with Nkhata Bay losing 8.49 kha of natural forest in recent years.

The move to block the sale of the land is seen as a significant step towards protecting Malawi’s forests and promoting sustainable development.

The government has made efforts to conserve forest biodiversity, including initiatives to engage local communities in forest management.

The Nkhatabay District Council’s decision sets a precedent for protecting Malawi’s natural resources and promoting sustainable development. As the country continues to grapple with environmental challenges, bold actions like these are crucial for preserving its rich biodiversity.