President Lazarus Chakwera on Thursday 29th February 2024 said the two systems of Business registration and Land information management are crucial as Malawi focuses on the 2063 agenda of all Malawians becoming self-reliant.
The President made the remarks at Bingu International Convention Center in the capital Lilongwe when he launched Malawi Business registration and the Land information management systems which will help in registration of new businesses and management of data for plots as well as land ownership and deal away with some crooks who have been selling land to more than one customer.
Chakwera
“Previously Malawians have been struggling to register their new businesses, sometimes covering long distances only to get their new businesses registered. Previously, Malawians have been struggling with crooks (dobadobas) who sell plots which are not theirs, sometimes even selling a plot to multiple customers, but to trace the files for such plots at the department of lands, you hear files are missing while in the office.
The systems we are launching today will address these challenges” Said the President.
He further said for the growth of Malawi’s economy and hunger eradication, the two systems are critical and need to be in operation with experts having full control over them.
Writing on his Facebook page, President Lazarus Chakwera told the nation that the two systems will improve efficiency in registration of business entities, and consolidation of data around profit-making ventures and improve equitable land ownership as well as administration by all Malawians.
Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC) commends the government’s ambitious allocation of MK900 billion in the education sector in the 2023/2024 budget.
In a statement signed by CSEC board chairperson Dr. Limbani Nsapato and its Executive Director Benedicto Kondowe the coalition says its analysis extend beyond budget analysis, underscores the importance of meticulous examination of detailed budget statement.
Benedicto Kondowe
The statement also alluded that the allocation reflects government commitment to priotize education as a key driver of national development and human capital formation.
“While celebrating this milestone we emphasize the imperative of equitable distribution and efficient utilization of funds to address diverse educational needs comprehensively,” reads part of the statement.
They also emphasize that only through these deliberate and inclusive efforts this country can effectively bridge the existing gaps and propel this country towards greater equity and prosperity.
CSEC says despite challenges of high inflation rate and significant high levels of public debits, Malawi’s economy outlook appears promising with anticipated growth rate of 4.8 percent from 3.2 percent.
Centre for Policy and Research on Digital Society (CPRDS) in conjunction with Laybird Private Schools through Cyber Smart Kids in Malawi Initiative has organized a practical training for kids aged between 6 to 15 on how to use the internet safely and responsibly.
The training to be facilitated by CPRDS co-founders Dr. Bennet Kankuzi and Mr. Luke Namangale will be held on March 17,2024 at Laybird Private Schools Campus, Upper Chinyonga in Blantyre.
Kankuzi
Asked on why the training is important to the kids Dr. Kankuzi said: “Many Malawian kids, particularly those in urban areas, can now access Internet, either at school or even using their parents’ smart phones. Problems of Internet addiction and access to unsafe sites have been reported among kids.
“This calls for awareness and practical training among kids, on how they can use the cyberspace Internet safely and responsibly while harnessing the many advantages of the cyber space.
“It is very important that at a young age, kids should be aware of the dangers that sometimes lurk in the cyber space.”
CPRDS is a registered non-profit organization whose mission is to promote digital transformation in Malawi and beyond.
President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has reiterated his Government commitment of turning the country into a self-reliant.
Speaking at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe during the launch of Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS) and Land Information Management System (LIMS) Chakwera said Malawi’s aspirations of becoming a self-reliant and inclusively wealthy economy largely depend on a comprehensive user-friendly ecosystem that accords every citizen a chance to venture into profit-making endeavours and own land for residence and production.
The president said roday, is a historic day following the joint launch of two significant online systems within that ecosystem namely; Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS) and Land Information Management System (LIMS).
“Malawi Business Registration System will improve efficiency in registration of business entities and consolidation of data around profit-making ventures. It will also enhance the investment environment at a time we are building a vibrant private sector as the main engine of economic growth, ” he said
He said the Land Information Management System on the other hand has come about as a core component of the Agriculture Commercialisation (AGCOM) project being implemented in all parts of the country.
“Its prime benefit is the improvement of equitable land ownership and administration by all Malawians, ” he said.
The president expressed concerned during the function over continued compromise around government data systems as observed.
“I will not entertain any sort of laxity by duty bearers assigned to safeguard these systems, ” he said.
The president has since commended World Bank for the technical and financial assistance to make sure that Malawi adopts these two significant systems as part of the enabling tools of a prosperous Malawi.
The recent events surrounding the Arthur Peter Mutharika My Vote parade organised by a faction of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the ensuing violence in Lilongwe demand the strongest condemnation.
However, it would be highly unfortunate if some disgruntled individuals sought to entangle the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) in the internal conflicts of the DPP. Recent developments within the party indicate a struggle for control between two factions.
The organisation of such a parade aimed at rallying support for a former president’s return to the State House raises concerns regarding democratic principles and the peaceful transfer of power, which the opposing faction has contested and not accepted.
While political mobilisation is fundamental to democracy, it must adhere to the rule of law and respect for differing opinions. The faction allegedly dismissed is discontented with the endorsement of Mutharika.
Holding a parade in favour of a specific candidate, particularly one who previously held office and asserts ownership of the party, risks influencing public opinion in a manner that undermines the fairness of the presidential candidate selection process. Moreover, the existence of factionalism within the DPP, exemplified by the opposition led by Kondwani Nankhumwa, highlights underlying issues within the party.
Internal divisions can weaken political parties, disrupt governance, and diminish public trust in the political system. It is crucial for political leaders to prioritise unity and constructive dialogue over internal power struggles, especially in the lead-up to elections. The violence during the parade in Lilongwe is deeply concerning and must be unequivocally condemned. Political disagreements should never justify resorting to violence or intimidation.
There is a temptation to believe that the disturbance on Saturday was internally orchestrated, knowing that blame could easily be shifted to the MCP due to its occurrence in Lilongwe. It is the responsibility of political leaders, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations to collaborate in ensuring that perpetrators of violence are held accountable and steps are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In conclusion, the events surrounding the Arthur Peter Mutharika My Vote parade and the violence in Lilongwe underscore the challenges confronting Malawi’s democratic system. It is increasingly evident that the DPP falls short of its claims to be democratic and progressive. It is imperative for political leaders and citizens alike to reject violence and embrace peaceful means of political engagement.
It is disheartening that the DPP, known for instigating terror during its tenure in government, continues to resort to violence even in opposition. Only through unity, dialogue, and a commitment to democratic principles can Malawi realize its full potential as a stable and prosperous nation. Opposition parties, as integral components of the governing system, must adhere to democratic principles.
Mutharika’s DPP has proven ineffective both as a governing party and as an opposition force. It is no surprise they are embroiled in an internal fight for the position of Leader of the Opposition amongst themselves.
