The Main opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) says the Mulanje Central lawmaker Kondwani Nankhumwa, whom Speaker of Parliament recognised as Leader of Opposition during Wednesday’s Business Committee meeting, should not dare sit in the front row of DPP benches today when President Lazarus Chakwera opens the Budget Meeting of Parliament.
According to the party’s Spokesperson Shadrick Namalomba, Nankhumwa is not a member of the DPP and therefore cannot lead the DPP.
“For the sake of peace and decorum, he should not dare to sit on our benches. He is not a member of the DPP,” Namalomba said.
Namalomba
He said if the Speaker wants to continue recognising Nankhumwa as Leader of Opposition, she can allocate him a sit on other benches but not in front of DPP lawmakers.
Traditionally, Leader of the House sits on the third seat in the front row, directly opposite his government counterpart, the Leader of the House.
However,if the DPP’s wishes are granted, it would be the first time to have a Leader of Opposition leading from the independent benches or from the back.
On Wednesday morning, there was drama at parliament when both Chaponda and Nankhumwa Nankhumwa turned up for the business committee meeting.
Nankhumwa was recently fired from the DPP & the party appointed Chaponda as the new leader of opposition.
He obtained an injunction restricting Chaponda from taking up the new role insisting procedures were flouted when expelling him.
The speaker allowed Nankhumwa to attend the meeting and Chaponda was turned back.
The DPP has now appointed Mary Navicha as the Leader of Opposition in the house.
Malawi Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance (NCD Alliance) says the country requires more funding allocations towards the work of bridging the gap of knowledge and awareness on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) among the citizens in the country.
Through the media orientation meeting on Knowledge, Altitude and Practice (KAP) survey which the organization had,it was discovered that there is less allocation of funding towards NCDs multi-sectoral engagements which is leading to low level of knowledge and awareness for more people to take part in combating the diseases.
Chairperson for the Alliance, Maud Mwakasungula, said they had KAP survey dwelling on care services in health facilities in order to find out if people really know about the health care services they can access on NCDs.
“What we are saying is that do people in the communities understand that when they go to the hospital they can have their sugar measured, they can have their blood pressure measured, do they know that they can ask for services from the laboratory, these are the areas we need to improve,” she said.
On the findings of the survey,she said that there is need for more awareness on the NCD services mostly for people in the urban areas as most of them are not too sure of what they can be able to access on NCD services unlike people in the rural areas where it has been discovered that they are reluctant to no more information on the care services whenever there are awareness meetings.
“On our recommendations looking at care services we need to look into how much we can push forward that the government should be providing just minimal things like a BP machine and gluco-meter so that people should have care services at large,” Mwakasungula highlighted.
On his part,Dr. Henry Ndindi who undertakes the survey said they were looking at knowledge of the population on the risk factors towards NCDs specifically targeting diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy as well as asthma diseases on their knowledge of available services at health facilities like Likuni mission hospital and Kabudula.
“We noted that regarding risk factors, people have some information but they get this information through informal communication amongst themselves and probably there is a need for more sensitization on that,” Ndindi said.
He therefore emphasized the need for much sensitization on the risk factor on NCDs and where people can get services and that people should get screening for earlier prevention of the condition.
NCD Alliance coordinated by Women’s Coalition Against Cancer (WOCACA), is implementing a project dubbed at “Advocacy Institute Accelerator Programme” aiming at contributing towards Malawi government effective implementation of NCDs and other related policies for improved preventive measures, care support, financing and engaging communities and they held this KAP survey to be used as part and parcel of the project.
The Leader of Malawi Congress Party members living in the diaspora Chalo Mvula has commended the recent move by Homeland Security Minister Ken Zikhale Ng’oma and the Chakwera administration in removing entry visa requirements for 79 countries, a move targeted at improving the countries tourism industry.
Speaking to 247 Malawi Media to make commentary on the Issue , Mvula has highlighted that the move shows Chakwera’s Government’s commitment to improving the tourism industry in Malawi.
“The issue about strategic visa removal for some countries has been talked about for sometime now, many even in the Diaspora have been suggesting this to the Ministry of Tourism and its great to see the Homeland Security Minister Dr Zikhale finally signing in the changes”
Chalo Mvula- Visa move good for Malawi
In a communication released on Wednesday, The Malawi Government through the Homeland Security Minister has removed entry visa requirements for 79 countries
Visas for entry into Malawi are required by nationals of all countries, except the following countries Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Jamaica, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America and others
This comes as the Malawi government has amended the Immigration Act on visa requirements for entry into Malawi for nationals of various countries.
The Malawi Gazette Supplement, signed by Minister of Homeland Security, Ken Zikhałe Ng’oma, effective February 7, specifically Government Notice No. 6, outlines changes to visa requirements for entry into Malawi for nationals of various countries, with exceptions for certain groups such as diplomats and government officials, and countries that have mutual exchange agreements for multiple entry visas with Malawi.
Additionally, nationals from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) are exempt from visa requirements.This excludes countries that impose visa requirements on Malawian citizens.
Holders of specific Laissez-Passer documents, issued by organisations such as the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and African Development Bank (ADB), are exempt while on official business.
According to the new visa arrangements, the validity of multiple entry visas in Malawi is up to 6 months and 12 months.
In a groundbreaking move that has left tongues wagging and jaws dropping, Malawi has made a strategic decision to import goods from Israel using the Kwacha currency.
This unprecedented deal, spearheaded by the Malawi delegation led by the illustrious Secretary to the Treasury Betchani Tchereni, promises to revolutionize the country’s economy and bring about a much-needed boost in trade relations with the Middle Eastern powerhouse.
The negotiations, shrouded in secrecy and cloaked in mystery, have seen Malawi secure deals with six prominent Israeli companies.
These deals are set to pave the way for the importation of crucial commodities such as fertiliser, fuel, and essential medicines, all while sidestepping the involvement of middlemen.
What’s more, all transactions will be conducted in the local currency, further bolstering Malawi’s economic sovereignty.
Tchereni
The potential benefits of these deals are staggering, with estimates suggesting that Malawi could save up to a staggering $1 billion (equivalent to about K1.740 trillion) in the long run.
This significant cost reduction is expected to trickle down to consumers, resulting in lower prices for the imported goods and a much-needed reprieve for the country’s struggling economy.
Secretary Tchereni, the architect behind this bold move, has expressed optimism about the positive impact these deals will have on Malawi’s trade balance and foreign reserves.
By reducing the reliance on foreign currency for imports and fostering stronger ties with Israeli companies, Malawi is poised to secure a more stable and sustainable economic future.
But not everyone is convinced of the rosy picture painted by the government.
Willy Kambwandira, Executive Director of the Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency, has sounded a note of caution, calling for greater transparency in the deals.
Without full disclosure of the companies involved, Kambwandira argues, the public cannot fully assess the potential risks and benefits of these agreements.
However, Edward Chaka, the astute security expert and Executive Director of the People’s Federation for National Peace and Development, offers a different perspective.
Chaka believes that the government’s decision to keep the names of the companies under wraps is a savvy move, demonstrating Malawi’s respect for Israel and its business partners.
In a tumultuous geopolitical landscape, where trust is a scarce commodity, Chaka contends that discretion is key to fostering fruitful international relationships.
As the dust settles on these momentous agreements, one thing is clear: Malawi’s foray into trading with Israel marks a new chapter in the country’s economic history.
With the potential to reshape trade dynamics, boost foreign reserves, and lower prices for essential commodities, these deals hold the promise of a brighter future for all Malawians.
In conclusion, the path ahead may be paved with challenges and uncertainties, but one thing remains certain – Malawi’s bold decision to import goods from Israel using the Kwacha is a game-changer that has the potential to transform the country’s economic landscape for the better.
With transparency, trust, and cooperation, the possibilities are endless.
Watch this space as Malawi embarks on this exciting new chapter in its journey towards prosperity and growth.
Malawi, a land of picturesque landscapes and warm-hearted people, has recently made headlines with the amendment of its immigration act by the honorable Minister of Homeland and Security, Kenneth Reeves Zikhale ng’oma.
This bold move now allows passport holders from 48 countries to enter Malawi without the hassle of obtaining a visa.
But is this newfound freedom a boon or a bane for the country as a whole?
On one hand, the benefits of this decision are abundantly clear.
By opening its doors to a wider range of international travelers, Malawi can expect to see a significant boost in its tourism industry.
With more visitors coming in to explore its stunning national parks, tranquil lakes, and vibrant cultural heritage, the country stands to gain not only in terms of revenue but also in terms of global exposure and recognition.
Furthermore, the visa-free policy is sure to foster stronger diplomatic ties with the countries involved, paving the way for increased bilateral cooperation and mutual understanding.
This move signifies Malawi’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for foreigners, which can only bode well for its international reputation and standing on the global stage.
Despite these advantages, however, there are also potential disadvantages to consider.
One of the primary concerns is the issue of border security.
With the relaxation of visa requirements, there is a possibility that nefarious individuals could exploit this loophole to enter the country with malicious intent.
This could pose a serious threat to the safety and wellbeing of Malawian citizens and visitors alike, potentially tarnishing the country’s image and deterring future travelers.
Additionally, the sudden influx of tourists and travelers could put a strain on Malawi’s infrastructure and resources.
From accommodation and transportation to healthcare and sanitation, the country may struggle to cope with the increased demand for services, leading to potential issues of overcrowding, pollution, and environmental degradation.
Moreover, the visa-free policy could potentially impact the local economy in unforeseen ways.
By lowering the barriers to entry for foreign visitors, there is a risk that indigenous businesses and artisans could be overshadowed by larger, more established multinational corporations, leading to a loss of cultural identity and economic autonomy.
In conclusion, while the amendment of the immigration act to allow visa-free entry into Malawi may seem like a progressive and forward-thinking move on the surface, it is essential to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks of this decision.
By striking a delicate balance between openness and security, the government can ensure that Malawi reaps the rewards of increased tourism and international cooperation without compromising the safety and welfare of its people.
Only time will tell whether this bold move will ultimately be a blessing or a curse for the nation as a whole.
