Hundreds of people turned out to pay their last respects to Moyale Barracks goalkeeper Simeon Harawa who died on Tuesday morning in Mzuzu.
Harawa died apon arrival at Mzuzu Central Hospital after complaining that he was feeling unwell following a physical training.
Family members, football officials, team-mates and friends were present at Chindewe village, Traditional Authority (TA) Mwalweni in Rumphi district where Harawa’s body was laid to rest.
Moyale Barraks players carrying Harawa’s coffin
The 30-year-old shot stopper who was younger brother to former Flames goalkeeper McDonald Harawa, played his last game last Saturday when Moyale drew 1-1 against Civil Service United at Mzuzu Stadium.
He has been described by most soccer followers as a very talented goalkeeper who had a very promising future in the game of football.
The Late HarawaMoyale Barraks coach Pritchard Mwansa (C)in tears during Simeon Harawa’s burial ceremony
As the world unites to commemorate World Labour Day on May 1, Malawi stands at a critical juncture in its fight against child labour.
This year, President Lazarus Chakwera will lead the nation in Balaka district, a symbolic gesture that underscores the importance of this day in advocating for workers’ rights and addressing the pressing issue of child labour in the country.
While Malawi has made strides in enacting laws to protect children from exploitation, the reality on the ground reveals a stark contrast, with approximately 2.1 million children aged 5-17 years still engaged in child labour.
This situation calls for urgent attention and action from all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the international community.
World Labour Day serves as a reminder of the struggles and achievements of workers worldwide. It is a day to reflect on the rights of workers, the importance of fair wages, safe working conditions, and the need for social justice.
In Malawi, the commemoration takes on an added significance as it highlights the plight of children who are forced into labour, often at the expense of their education and well-being.
The presence of President Chakwera in Balaka is not merely ceremonial; it is an opportunity to galvanize support for policies and initiatives aimed at eradicating child labour and ensuring that every child has the right to a safe and nurturing environment.
Malawi’s legal framework prohibits child labour, with laws in place that aim to protect children from exploitation.
The Employment Act of 2000 and the Child Care, Protection and Justice Act of 2010 are pivotal in this regard, outlining the minimum age for employment and the conditions under which children may work.
However, the enforcement of these laws remains a significant challenge. Limited resources, inadequate monitoring mechanisms, and a lack of awareness among communities contribute to the persistence of child labour in various sectors, including agriculture, mining, and domestic work.
The economic landscape in Malawi further complicates the issue. With a high poverty rate, many families rely on the income generated by their children to survive. This economic necessity often forces children into the workforce, where they are subjected to long hours, hazardous conditions, and minimal pay.
The cycle of poverty is perpetuated as these children miss out on education, limiting their future opportunities and trapping them in a cycle of exploitation. The government must recognize that addressing child labour requires a multifaceted approach that not only enforces existing laws but also tackles the root causes of poverty and provides families with viable alternatives.
Education is a critical component in the fight against child labour. Ensuring that children have access to quality education can break the cycle of poverty and empower future generations. The government must prioritize investments in the education sector, making it accessible and affordable for all children.
Initiatives such as conditional cash transfers for families who keep their children in school can provide the necessary incentives to discourage child labour. Additionally, community awareness campaigns are essential to educate parents about the long-term benefits of education and the dangers of child labour.
The role of civil society organizations cannot be overstated in this context. Many NGOs in Malawi are actively working to combat child labour through advocacy, education, and support programs.
These organizations play a crucial role in raising awareness, providing resources, and holding the government accountable for its commitments to protect children. Collaboration between the government and civil society is essential to create a comprehensive strategy that addresses the complexities of child labour and ensures that children are not only protected but also empowered to thrive.
International support and cooperation are also vital in the fight against child labour.
Malawi is not alone in this struggle; many countries face similar challenges. The global community must come together to share best practices, provide financial assistance, and support initiatives aimed at eradicating child labour.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8.7, which calls for the eradication of child labour in all its forms by 2025, provide a framework for collective action. Malawi must leverage international partnerships to enhance its efforts and ensure that its children are not left behind.
As the nation gathers in Balaka to commemorate World Labour Day, it is imperative that the focus remains on the most vulnerable members of society—its children.
The presence of President Chakwera serves as a reminder of the government’s responsibility to protect its citizens, particularly those who cannot advocate for themselves. It is a call to action for all Malawians to stand against child labour and work towards a future where every child can enjoy their rights, receive an education, and grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.
The commemoration of World Labour Day in Malawi should not be a mere formality; it must be a catalyst for change.
The government must take concrete steps to strengthen the enforcement of child labour laws, increase funding for education, and implement social protection programs that support families in need. Communities must be engaged in the fight against child labour, fostering a culture that values education and prioritizes the well-being of children.
As we reflect on the significance of this day, let us remember that the fight against child labour is not just a legal obligation; it is a moral imperative.
Every child deserves the right to a childhood free from exploitation, where they can learn, play, and grow. The commemoration of World Labour Day in Malawi is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to this cause and to take meaningful action towards a future where child labour is a relic of the past.
As Malawi joins the global community in commemorating World Labour Day, it is essential to recognize the challenges that lie ahead in the fight against child labour.
The presence of President Chakwera in Balaka is a step in the right direction, but it must be accompanied by concrete actions and a collective commitment to protect the rights of children.
The time for change is now, and it is the responsibility of every Malawian to ensure that the future is bright for the nation’s children. Together, we can create a society where every child has the opportunity to thrive, free from the shackles of child labour.
A 31-year-old man, Mark Yusuf of Chomba Village, Traditional Authority Mponda in Mangochi, has been arrested for possessing forest produce without proper documentation.
The arrest was made on April 30, 2025, by Mangochi Police officers who were conducting day patrols in the township.
According to Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi, Public Relations Officer at Mangochi Police Station, the officers received a tip-off that Yusuf was offloading bags of charcoal at his compound.
Upon investigation, they discovered 212 bags of charcoal and 27 pieces of timber.
Therefore the Department of Forestry was alerted and joined the police in the operation, leading to the seizure of the forest produce and Yusuf’s arrest.
This arrest highlights the ongoing issue of deforestation and charcoal production in Malawi, which contributes to environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Charcoal production is a significant driver of deforestation.
Yusuf is expected to appear in court soon to answer charges related to the illegal possession of forest produce, contrary to the country’s forestry regulations.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of enforcing laws and regulations to protect Malawi’s natural resources.
The arrest and seizure of forest produce demonstrate the commitment of the Malawi Police Service and the Department of Forestry to protecting the country’s environment and natural resources.
As Malawi continues to face environmental challenges, efforts to prevent deforestation and promote sustainable forest management are crucial. This case highlights the need for continued awareness and education on the importance of environmental conservation and the consequences of illegal activities.
The Malawi Police Service and the Department of Forestry are working together to protect the country’s natural resources and prevent environmental degradation. Their efforts are essential in ensuring that Malawi’s forests are preserved for future generations.
460 retired soldiers, who retired from service since the 1970s are complaining about the government’s delay in paying their pension arrears.
On March 14 this year, the High Court in Blantyre ruled that the soldiers should be paid their pension arrears within 14 days of the ruling.
However, their leader, Sergeant Ben Ntwana, told Times 360 on Wednesday that despite the court order, they have not yet received the arrears amounting to K4.7 billion.
Ntwana said they plan to stage peaceful protests at government offices in the coming days to pressure the government to pay them the arrears.
Reports indicate that after retirement, these soldiers receive a small monthly pension, a uniform amount regardless of their former rank.
Diplomats Car Hire has donated Five Million Kwacha towards the premier of the much anticipated movie ‘Welcome to Maula Prison’ which is set to be launched in all the three cities.
The company has also promised to provide a Limousine to support the film’s promotional activities.
Speaking after presenting the cheque to the film producers, Deputy Managing Director of Diplomats Car Hire, Wezi Chiweta, said the company is committed to uplifting the local film industry.
“Welcome to Maula Prison” is set to premiered on 2nd May at BICC in Lilongwe, 3rd May in Blantyre, and 4th May in Mzuzu city.
