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Government clears air on the status of Likoma Island,   Likoma, not for sale

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Government clears air on the status of Likoma Island,   Likoma, not for sale

By Linda Kwanjana

The Government of Malawi through Ministry of Tourism has singled out development of the Likoma Activity Center on Likoma Island as one of the priorities in ten developments which government is under taking saying it will enhance tourism experience by developing an aquarium to promote awareness of Lake Malawi’s unique fish species.

In a press statement dated 25th September, 2024 signed by secretary for tourism, Chancy Simwaka, among others the development will also change outlook of Likoma Ireland as new modern facilities such as Casino, Luxurious Hotel, running tracks, waste management facilities, cruise ship, expansion of the Airport runway and terminal retail shops will be available.

Likoma Island



“In line with the Government’s policy on investment and Trade Promotion, the Ministry of Tourism refers any potential investors to the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC) as the focal point of contact for further processing of any expression of investment interest,” reads part of the statement.

The statement further said the Ministry of Tourism together with Ministry of Lands and Ministry of Local Government, Culture and Unity will collaborate with district councils to enhance sector investment in all the ten priority projects including the Development of the Likoma Activity Center on Likoma Island.

“Through these promotion, Augustus Gmbh expressed its interest to invest at Likoma Island, not only focusing on the Tourism sector but many others as well including Agriculture, Mining and Security and Health,” the statement further said.

The statement also remind the general public that in accordance with Land Laws of Malawi, amendment Act of 2022 it prohibits non- Malawian investors from buying the land in this country, as such, investors who are non- Malawians can only acquire land through MITC as derivative rights/sub-leases after satisfying investment requirements in accordance with the Law as investment transactions in Malawi are guided by the Constitution of Malawi and all applicable laws and policies.

Therefore, the ministry says these laws and policies are strictly observed by all relevant authorities with the aim of ensuring that all sector projects are both sustainable and beneficial to Malawians, especially the local communities.

In view of that the government has therefore cleared allegations that it does not have an agreement with any investor for the development of Likoma Island as indicated in the Malawi News dated 14th to 20th and 21st to 27th September, 2024.

“Therefore the allegations that the government is selling Likoma Island and consequently relocating the people are baseless,” the statement emphasized.

The Ministry of Tourism therefore reiterate that Likoma Island is not for sale and cannot be sold as Government will continue to engage various investors expressing interest to invest in identified priority areas including the Likoma Activity Center, ensuring that all times any proposed investment is legally acceptable for the benefit of Malawians.

Lilongwe City Council Introduces Annual License Fees for Photographers

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Lilongwe City Council Introduces Annual License Fees for Photographers

By Burnett Munthali

The Lilongwe City Council (LCC) has announced the introduction of an annual license fee for photographers operating within the city. According to a statement posted on the council’s official Facebook page, both photo studios and individual photographers will be required to comply with the new regulation starting this year.

Under the new guidelines, photo studios are expected to pay an annual fee of K190,000.00, while individual photographers will be charged K105,000.00 per year. The council’s decision aims to regulate the photography business in Lilongwe, ensuring that all operators are officially registered and licensed to provide professional services within the city limits.



The LCC has stated that the new licensing structure is part of its broader efforts to formalize small businesses, generate revenue, and create a more structured environment for local photographers. The statement emphasized that failure to comply with the licensing requirements could result in penalties or even the suspension of business operations.

Reactions to the announcement have been mixed, with some photographers expressing concern about the financial burden, particularly for freelancers and small-scale operators. However, others have welcomed the move, viewing it as a step towards creating a more professional industry where registered photographers can operate with official recognition and protection.

The Lilongwe City Council has urged all photographers and photo studio owners to visit their offices to complete the licensing process and ensure they are in compliance with the new regulations.

As the photography industry in Malawi continues to grow, this development marks a significant shift in how local businesses in the creative sector will operate within the city. It remains to be seen how the new fees will impact the photography community, but LCC’s efforts reflect the ongoing drive to formalize and regulate business activities in Lilongwe.

Malawi Security Officers’ Housing Project Expected to Enhance Service Delivery

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Malawi Security Officers’ Housing Project Expected to Enhance Service Delivery

By Burnett Munthali

The ongoing housing project aimed at providing accommodation for Malawi’s security officers is anticipated to significantly improve service delivery among officers across the country. This was revealed during a visit by the Malawi News Agency to the Parachute Battalion in Salima and Mvera Battalion in Dowa District.

Emmanuel Chimbiri, Assistant Adjutant at the Parachute Battalion, expressed the excitement among officers due to the construction of 50 new houses, which will allow them to reside closer to their workstations. Chimbiri explained that this development will lead to enhanced communication and more efficient service delivery, as a majority of officers will now live within the premises.


“The houses are almost complete here. We have 40 houses for junior staff and 10 for senior staff. We commend the government for this amazing project which will transform our working conditions,” Chimbiri said. He added that officers currently living outside the campus would soon have the opportunity to move into the new houses, creating a more conducive working environment.

Charles Malata, an engineer from Solid Construction Company, provided further updates on the construction, noting that the project is 95% complete, with only carpentry, joinery, and some earthwork on drains and roads remaining. Malata also highlighted the positive impact the project has had on the local community, with over 270 temporary workers employed during the construction process.

“Let me commend the government of Malawi for giving us a chance to be part of this huge project. We look forward to more opportunities as we continue with the work,” Malata said.

At Mvera Battalion, Armour Battalion Adjutant Yamikani Saikodi also praised the government for providing 59 houses, noting the critical need for officers to live within the battalion for improved service delivery. Saikodi emphasized that the project would be a “game changer” for their operations, as officers currently residing off-campus would soon move into the new homes.

The housing initiative is part of a broader national project by the Government of Malawi, under the Ministry of Lands

Social Media Unfollows Dan Lufani, Now Targeting Skeffa Chimoto

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Social Media Unfollows Dan Lufani, Now Targeting Skeffa Chimoto

By Burnett Munthali

In a growing social media movement, Malawian fans have turned against popular musician Dan Lufani, following his political affiliation with the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP). What began as an online campaign to unfollow Lufani has now shifted its focus to fellow artist Skeffa Chimoto, despite Chimoto’s lack of direct political involvement.

One post that has gone viral reads: “Amalawi anzanga, tiyeni tonse tiwapange block oyimba awiri amenewa Skeffa ndi Dan Lu,” which translates to, “My fellow Malawians, let’s all block these two singers, Skeffa and Dan Lu.” This sentiment has sparked widespread discussion, as fans call for a boycott of both musicians.

Dan Lu



Dan Lufani’s recent public endorsement of the MCP has been met with swift backlash from his fanbase. Many of his followers, who feel disillusioned by his political stance, have started unfollowing his Facebook page in protest. The online campaign to unfollow Lufani is seen as a form of political activism, with fans expressing their dissatisfaction with his alignment with the ruling party.

Though Skeffa Chimoto has largely remained politically neutral, he is now facing criticism alongside Lufani. Social media users are questioning his silence on political and social issues affecting Malawi, leading to growing calls for fans to block him as well. This unexpected targeting of Skeffa has raised questions about the role of artists in political discourse and whether neutrality is still an acceptable stance in the eyes of their followers.

The online reactions reflect deeper frustrations within Malawi’s political and social landscape. Fans appear to be using social media as a platform to hold public figures accountable for their perceived inaction or misalignment with the people’s interests. For Dan Lufani, this has resulted in a notable drop in his social media following, with the unfollow movement gaining momentum by the day.

The backlash against Lufani and Chimoto illustrates the evolving expectations for musicians in Malawi. Artists are no longer seen as just entertainers but as influencers who have a role in shaping political and social narratives. The pressure to take a stand—or face losing support—has become a reality for public figures in the digital age.

As calls to unfollow Dan Lufani continue, and Skeffa Chimoto becomes a new target, it is clear that social media has become a powerful tool for expressing dissatisfaction with public figures. For Lufani, the challenge will be rebuilding his reputation and reconnecting with disillusioned fans, while Skeffa may need to reconsider his public stance as the demands for artist involvement in political discourse grow louder.

This ongoing saga underscores the impact of social media in shaping public opinion and the delicate balance that Malawian artists must now navigate between their personal beliefs and the expectations of their fans.

Skeffa

Malawi U20 team eyes Cosafa glory

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Malawi U20 team eyes Cosafa glory


By Twink Jones Gadama

Malawi Under 20 National Team Coach Bob Mpinganjira has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to win the upcoming COSAFA Youth Championship and secure a spot in the Under 20 Africa Cup of Nations.

The team departed for Maputo, Mozambique on Monday morning, ahead of the tournament’s kickoff on Thursday.

Mpinganjira’s optimism stems from the team’s successful preparations, which have equipped them to tackle the challenge.



“The preparations went well, and we are very hopeful that we are going to have a very good tournament. We have never won the tournament, but we hope to this year,” he stated.

The coach emphasized the importance of this tournament to his players, urging them to seize the opportunity.

“We have talked to the players about the importance of this tournament and that we have to go compete and win the Cup. I am very sure that every player is geared up, and we will get good results,” he assured.

Malawi is grouped alongside South Africa, Comoros, and Lesotho in Group C.

Their opening match is against South Africa on September 27, followed by clashes with Comoros on September 30 and Lesotho on October 1.

This year’s COSAFA U20 Championship serves as a regional qualifier for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, with the two finalists advancing to the continental showpiece.

The final 20-man squad boasts a mix of experienced players and fresh talent.

Notable inclusions are:

– Goalkeepers Amos Sande (Ekhaya) and Innocent Kamwambi (Lube FC)
– Defenders Washali Jaziya (Silver Strikers) and Kondwani Tebulo (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets)
– Midfielders Precious Kwalenga (Mighty Tigers) and Francis Malikebu (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets RSV)
– Strikers Masambiro Kalua (Mighty Tigers) and Benson Chifundo Makawa (Kamuzu Barracks)

Malawi’s quest for Cosafa glory begins against South Africa, a team they have historically struggled against.

However, Mpinganjira’s charges are determined to rewrite history.

The Cosafa Youth Championship has become a vital platform for Malawian youth to showcase their skills and attract international attention.

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