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Kaonga pledges K1 million each to 6 outstanding MSCE students

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By Chisomo Phiri

Barely weeks after pledging K1 million each to ten top Junior Certificate of Education (JCE) performers, Maranatha Academy Managing Director Ernest Kaonga has pledged K6 million to six students with outstanding results in the 2024 Malawi School Leaving Certificate(MSCE) examinations currently under way.

In a separate interview,Kaonga who is also President for the Private Schools Association of Malawi(PRISAM),said 3 outstanding girls and 3 outstanding boys in the exams will each get K1 million.

He said the move is aimed at motivating the students to work extra hard and score good grades during exams.

“This is part of motivating the students to work extra hard.I believe that all students have what it takes to perform well during exams, so they just need motivation to engage that extra gear,” said Kaonga.

He indicated that the offer goes to both private and public students.

“It doesnt matter whether you are from public or private school.What I am looking for is top 6 performers,” he said.

This year, 184,978 students registered for the MSCE examinations, comprising 96,787 males and 88,191 females, an increase from the previous year’s registration, which saw 154,762 students sign up, including 82,706 males and 72,066 females.

Government pledges continued support to Lucius Banda’s family

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By Burnett Munthali

Malawi’s art community mourns the loss of a beloved figure, Lucius Banda, whose contributions transcended music to impact the nation’s cultural landscape. In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity, the government has pledged unwavering support to Banda’s family, including his elder brother Paul, during this difficult time.

Richard Chimwendo Banda, Minister of Local Government, Unity, and Culture, spoke on behalf of President Lazarus Chakwera, expressing deep appreciation for Lucius Banda’s dedication to the arts. “He dedicated his life to the arts,” Minister Chimwendo Banda emphasized, reflecting on Banda’s influential role as a musician and as a presidential adviser on youth and arts.

President Chakwera at Lucius Banda’s funeral

The government’s commitment extends beyond words to tangible support, ensuring that the family receives assistance that honors Banda’s legacy. “The family should be assured that the President will not leave you alone,” Minister Chimwendo Banda assured. He reaffirmed that the same support extended during Banda’s illness will continue, underscoring the government’s recognition of his enduring impact and the importance of supporting his loved ones.

Lucius Banda’s role as a presidential adviser underscored his influence in advocating for youth empowerment and promoting the arts as a vital component of Malawi’s cultural identity. His legacy resonates through his music, which addressed social issues and celebrated Malawian heritage.

As Malawi remembers Lucius Banda’s contributions, the government’s pledge of support stands as a testament to his significance in national affairs and his enduring influence on future generations of artists and cultural ambassadors.

In honoring Lucius Banda’s memory, the nation not only celebrates his achievements but also reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the arts and preserving his legacy of passion, dedication, and advocacy.

Community gathers to honor Hope Chisanu in Lilongwe

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By Burnett Munthali

Lilongwe, Malawi – Today, Ngodya, Kamphata has become a place of solemn gathering as people from diverse sectors unite to bid farewell to the late Hope Chisanu. Known for his contributions to Malawi’s film industry, Chisanu will be laid to rest amidst a ceremony that reflects both mourning and celebration of his life.

Creatives from the film industry have converged to pay their respects to their esteemed colleague. The presence of actors, filmmakers, and artists underscores Chisanu’s profound impact on the artistic community and his enduring legacy in storytelling.

Organized by the Film Association of Malawi, the ceremony is marked by poignant tributes and performances that honor Chisanu’s artistic contributions. Movie snippets from his acclaimed works resonate on screens, reminding attendees of his talent and dedication to the craft of filmmaking. These screenings serve as a testament to Chisanu’s ability to capture the Malawian experience and captivate audiences with his storytelling prowess.

Amidst the gathering, dignitaries including Norman Chisale and other members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) have also paid their respects at the funeral home village. Their presence reflects the wide-reaching impact of Chisanu’s work beyond the artistic realm.

In a gesture of generosity, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, through his representative, contributed MWK 1 million in cash towards the funeral arrangements. This act of support underscores the collective appreciation for Chisanu’s contributions and the unity within the community in honoring his memory.

As the ceremony progresses and Chisanu is laid to rest, there is a palpable sense of loss mingled with gratitude for the legacy he leaves behind. His influence on Malawian cinema and his dedication to storytelling will continue to inspire generations to come.

May the spirit of Hope Chisanu endure through the stories he shared and the lives he touched, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Lucius Banda’s inclusive legacy in Malawi’s Music scene

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By Burnett Munthali

Malawi’s music community mourns the loss of Lucius Banda, a pivotal figure who not only enriched the industry with his music but also championed inclusivity and support for fellow musicians, regardless of their stature. Reverend Chimwemwe Mhango, speaking on behalf of the Copyright Society of Malawi, highlighted Banda’s profound impact on the music landscape.

Banda’s influence transcended mere melodies; he embraced and collaborated with musicians at every level, from seasoned professionals to aspiring beginners who sought recognition in the trade. Mhango emphasized that Banda’s open-hearted approach created a welcoming environment within the music community, fostering growth and camaraderie among artists.

Rev Chimwemwe Mhango



Moreover, Mhango underscored Banda’s significant role within the Copyright Society of Malawi, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission. Beyond his musical contributions, Banda dedicated himself to promoting fairness and protection for artists’ rights, ensuring that their creative efforts were respected and rewarded.

As Malawi bids farewell to Lucius Banda, his legacy as a unifying force in the music industry remains steadfast. His commitment to inclusivity and advocacy for artists’ rights will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and shape the cultural fabric of the nation.

In honoring Lucius Banda’s memory, the music community reflects on his lasting impact and the enduring principles of unity, support, and artistic integrity that he embodied throughout his illustrious career. His spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched and the melodies that will continue to resonate across Malawi and beyond.

Enhancing broadband connectivity in Malawi: ITU’s 15 million euro initiative

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By Burnett Munthali

At the ITU Global Symposium for Regulators in Kampala, Uganda, a landmark initiative was unveiled to bolster broadband connectivity across eleven African nations, including Malawi. Spearheaded by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), this 15 million Euro project aims to significantly enhance digital infrastructure and accessibility in underserved regions.

Empowering nations through connectivity

Malawi, alongside Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Benin, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Burundi, has been selected to benefit from this transformative initiative. The project, scheduled to span from 2024 to 2027, focuses on three critical areas: capacity building, equipment investment, and comprehensive system mapping.

Suleman

Ronald Tembo, Head of Universal Service at the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), emphasized the pivotal role these funds will play in advancing the nation’s digital landscape. He highlighted that the investment will enable Malawi to strengthen its technological foundations, ensuring broader coverage and improved service delivery.

A strategic timeline and vision

The four-year duration underscores the commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth through technology. By fostering strategic partnerships and leveraging state-of-the-art equipment, the initiative seeks to bridge the digital divide and empower communities across Malawi. It aligns with broader national agendas of fostering innovation, economic empowerment, and social inclusion.

Looking ahead

As the symposium continues to foster dialogue and collaboration among regulators, stakeholders, and policymakers, the momentum for digital transformation in Malawi and its fellow beneficiary nations is set to accelerate. The ITU’s initiative stands as a testament to global efforts to harness technology for socio-economic advancement, ensuring that no nation is left behind in the digital era.

In conclusion, Malawi’s participation in this ambitious project marks a significant stride towards a more connected and resilient future. With robust investments and strategic interventions, the nation is poised to unlock new opportunities and empower its citizens through enhanced broadband connectivity.