Gogo Chalo Kuntaja warmly welcomed Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah to Blantyre, setting the tone for a memorable visit.
The chief expressed his gratitude to the VP, noting that this was her first visit to the area since winning the September 16, 2025, elections.
The chief thanked the VP Dr. Jane Ansah and said this is the first time to visit the area after winning 16 September 2025 elections, highlighting the significance of the occasion.
Ansah
He was highly impressed with the word of God from the VP and confessed that he never expected such a powerful message.
On behalf of the people of Blantyre, the chief raised several concerns, pointing out that all road networks are impassable and appealing to the new government to work on the roads, clinics, and address the unfair distribution of development projects.
This, he emphasized, would go a long way in improving the lives of the people.
From the words of the VP on the pulpit, the chief said, “we can rightly say that we did not miss the penalty,” expressing his appreciation for the inspiring message.
He invited the VP to visit them again, assuring her of a warm welcome.
The chief also took the opportunity to acknowledge the VP’s son, Pastor Chris, saying, “You have a powerful son, preacher Pastor Chris,” highlighting the pride he felt in having such a notable figure in their midst.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for prayer, saying, “Malawi needs prayer indeed,” as the VP was bid a fond farewell.
Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Councilor for Dowa East Ward Holess Cheukani Madeya Chiphula, said he is ready to implement Youth Training Centre at Mvera Trading Centre in the district with Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to enable the youthful generation to be self-dependent.
Madeya said most of the youthS are indulging themselves into immoral behavior such as Chamba smoking and beer drinking because they have nothing to do saying the coming in of a youth training centre at Mvera will make the youth to be busy as they will be learning various vocational skills to sustain their lives . He has challenged the people of his area that they have been learning of CDF from the previous years in cameras, saying time has now come for the CDF to be visible in the eyes of all as councilors and committees will be running the management of the community basket fund.
Holess Madeya
The MCP Councilor has thanked the people of Dowa East for putting their trust in him as their true elected councilor for three consecutive terms of office saying all this has been made possible because he stays within the communities’ easy reach.
He said councilors by the end of their term of office in 2030, they will be judged with the way they have managed the K5 billion Constituency Development Fund (CDF) unlike the previous years when councilors were treated as outcasts and not aware of the CDF funding.
Madeya said he has plans to provide safe water sources through piped water at Mvera and surrounding villages, building teachers houses and school blocks, CBCCS for better early education, and roads rehabilitation with their bridges to improve communication.
“The works of my hands shall speak for me after the expiry of my term of office, for years, we were only smelling CDF but this time around, CDF is entering the communities with the councilors,” said Madeya.
He said for many years, councilors were being regarded as the less educated leaders in their communities than Members of Parliament (MPs) saying with councilors implementing CDF, the difference will be seen and the wards will not the same as yesterday. The MCP Councilor has claimed Isaac Jomo Osman has proved his critic wrong that beside being less educated, he is delivering more than those with Doctorate Degrees can do, he was elected Blantyre City Mayor and Malawi Local Government Association (MALGA) as its President.
Madeya Chiphula was first elected as Dowa East ward councilor in 2014, 2019 and finally on the 16th September, 2025 and on his future plans to serve the people in 2030, he said the communities of the area will decide just the same as they did in the three consecutive terms of office he has been with them.
Dowa District Council has an all MCP Members of Parliament (MPs) and councilors and Madeya’s area falls under MCP Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda who stood unopposed in the MCP primaries and won the 16th September, 2025 elections parliamentary seat with a landslide victory.
Renowned gemologist and founder of Yami Gemstone Lab & Export (YAGLE),Yamikani Jimusole, has been named one of the 10 winners of the Mining Indaba 2026 Community Voices award.
This prestigious recognition celebrates African innovators and community leaders driving growth and sustainability in the mining sector.
In an interview with 247 Malawi News,Jimusole, the only representative from Malawi,said the award is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the potential of Africa’s mining sector.
Jimusole
“We are turning gemstones into stories of growth and opportunity for Africa,” he said.
The gemologist said the award acknowledges his company’s efforts to transform Malawi’s gemstone industry and promote sustainable mining practices.
He emphasized that Africa is shifting from being just a producer of raw gemstones to becoming a consumer and market for its own gemstones, adding value locally and driving economic growth.
“We re not just extracting and exporting raw materials, we are creating a local industry that benefits our communities and showcases Africa’s rich gemstone heritage,” said Jimusole.
He called on the government to take the gemstone industry seriously, highlighting its potential to generate more foreign exchange than the tobacco industry.
“It is time we diversify our economy and tap into the vast potential of our gemstone resources,” he said.
Jimusole will leave Malawi on February 8th to participate in the Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa, from February 9-12, where he will join other winners to share insights and experiences.
The other winners hail from Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, South Africa, Ghana, Zambia, and Mozambique, showcasing the diversity of Africa’s mining sector.
The Malawi government, through the Ministry of Energy and Mining, Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA), and state mining company Malawi Mining Investment Company (MAMICO), will also be at the conference showcasing Malawi’s mining potential.
Minister of Energy and Mining Jean Mathanga will be speaking at the conference on the topic ‘Has the decline in foreign aid strengthened or strained Africa’s self-reliance’.
First Capital Bank (FCB) Plc, through its regional holding company FMB Capital Holdings, has partnered with the Government of Malawi to support the country’s participation at the African Mining Indaba 2026, in efforts to promote mining investment and strengthen investor engagement.
The African Mining Indaba, one of Africa’s premier mining investment forums, will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from February 9 to 12, 2026, bringing together governments, investors, financiers, policymakers, and mining companies from across the continent and beyond.
The 2026 Indaba is themed ‘Stronger Together: Progress through Partnerships’ a focus that aligns with First Capital Bank’s regional strategy of promoting investment-led growth through collaboration.
Chirwa
In a statement released on Thursday, FCB Head of Marketing and Communications Twikale Chirwa said the African Mining Indaba is one of the largest annual gatherings of mining investors, financiers, policymakers, and operators on the continent, making it a key platform for advancing investment-led growth.
“With mining expertise across five countries Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, the Indaba provides an opportunity for First Capital Bank to propel investment-led growth by offering tailored financial services for the mining industry in Malawi and for investors across the region,” said Chirwa.
Chirwa added that the platform also provides an opportunity to position Malawi as an emerging mining destination among regional and international investors.
“First Capital Bank and FMB Capital Holdings remain steadfast in supporting Malawi’s economic diversification and growth agenda as a strategic financial partner in the mining sector,” said Chirwa.
On the government side, Ministry of Energy and Mining, Public Relations Officer Tiyanjane Nandie Mambucha said the African Mining Indaba is one of Africa’s leading platforms for mining investment dialogue, bringing together governments, investors, financiers, and mining companies from across the continent and beyond.
“Malawi’s participation will focus on showcasing the country’s mineral potential, ongoing sector reforms, and investment opportunities within the mining industry.”
“The Ministry of Energy and Mining views the Indaba as a strategic opportunity for Malawi to engage potential investors and position the country as an emerging destination for responsible and sustainable mining investment. The mining sector remains a key pillar of Malawi’s economic diversification and growth agenda,” said Mambucha.
She added that First Capital Bank, through FMB Capital Holdings, is partnering with the Ministry of Mining to support Malawi’s participation at the Indaba.
The Bank’s support includes establishing the Malawi Pavilion and facilitating stakeholder engagement activities during the event.
“The partnership between the Ministry of Mining and First Capital Bank reflects a shared commitment to enabling investment-led growth through strong public-private sector collaboration, particularly in the mining and extractive industries.”
“During the Indaba, the Malawi delegation will engage with investors, mining companies, and development partners to explore opportunities across the mining value chain, including mineral exploration, project development, financing, and value addition,” said Mambucha.
She added that Malawi’s participation at the African Mining Indaba 2026 underscores the Government’s commitment to attracting responsible investment and strengthening partnerships that support sustainable development and long-term economic growth.
Contrary to reports that he left Uganda, Bobi Wine has shared proof that he’s still in Kampala, Uganda.
This revelation comes amidst heightened tensions and security concerns surrounding the opposition leader.
Bobi Wine, the prominent Ugandan opposition leader, has been sharing updates on his whereabouts, dispelling rumors of his departure from the country.
His actions are being closely watched, given the current political climate in Uganda.
The situation surrounding Bobi Wine has been volatile, with his home being occupied by military forces and his family facing harassment.
This has sparked international concern and calls for intervention.
Bobi Wine
Bobi Wine’s lawyer, Robert Amsterdam, has expressed serious concerns about the safety of his client and his family, citing breaches of international law.
The international community is urging Uganda to respect human rights and democratic norms.
The opposition leader has been in hiding since the January 15 General Election, which was marred by allegations of fraud and violence. Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform has been vocal about the irregularities and has called for protests.
Despite the challenges, Bobi Wine remains committed to his cause, using social media to address his supporters and share updates.
His resilience has inspired many, both within Uganda and globally.
The military occupation of Bobi Wine’s home has been condemned by human rights organizations and the international community.
The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the Ugandan government and opposition forces.
Bobi Wine’s decision to share proof of his presence in Kampala is a bold move, given the risks involved.
It demonstrates his determination to continue fighting for his cause.
The people of Uganda are watching the situation closely, with many expressing solidarity with Bobi Wine and his family.
The international community is also keeping a close eye on developments.
As the situation continues to unfold, it’s clear that Bobi Wine’s actions will have significant implications for Uganda’s political landscape.
His bravery in the face of adversity is a testament to his commitment to democracy and human rights.
The question on everyone’s mind is what’s next for Bobi Wine and Uganda.
Will the international community intervene, or will the situation escalate further?
Bobi Wine’s story is one of resilience and determination.
Despite the challenges, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of justice and democracy.
The world is watching, and the people of Uganda are waiting to see what the future holds.
