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.
Petroleum Importers Limited (PIL), a consortium of four oil marketing companies namely TotalErnegies Malawi, Vivo Energy, Petroda, and Puma Energy, on Wednesday took time off from their offices to plant 6000 trees in Soche Mountain in Blantyre.
PIL General Manager, Martin Msimuko said the company decided to plant the trees as a way of giving back to the community and restoring the environment.
Msimuko planting a tree
“We thought it wise to have our first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of the year by planting trees as it coincides with the national forestry season. PIL is concerned about how Blantyre and its mountains are being degraded . Our expectation is that these trees will grow and add beauty to the scenery of Blantyre and they are also going to purify our environment in our city,” said Msimuko.
Soche Mountain Conservation Trust Project Coordinator, Yangairo commended PIL for the initiative but asked more companies to emulate the gesture, saying the efforts to plant the trees can only bear fruits if they are well nurtured.
“We need more support from companies just like PIL and its shareholding companies have done. However, we need, as a country, to make sure we take up initiatives to take care of the trees. Let us empower the members of the community who volunteer to take up the tasks of caring for the trees,” said Yangairo.
One of the forest guards at the mountain, Edson Mukhweya also thanked PIL for the support.
Mukhweya however asked for collaboration between the security agencies and the forestry department in enforcing the forest regulations on those found destroying trees.
“It is so disturbing to see that as we collaborate to end the wanton cutting down of trees in our mountain, some government agencies act like they are supporting the behaviour. For instance, as guards, we cannot persecute those that are found destroying the trees. We therefore take them to the Police, but surprisingly, you will meet the same people in the forest again the next day after being released without trial,” said Mukhweya.
The national forestry season starts in December up to April every year.
Malawi President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, has launched the Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS) and Land Information Management System (LIMS) at the Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC).
In his address, President Chakwera emphasized the significance of these systems in revolutionizing governance and promoting economic prosperity in the country. He highlighted the pivotal role played by various government departments, including the Department of E-Government, the National Registration Bureau, and the Department of Innovation and Creativity, in spearheading the implementation of these initiatives.
Chakwera at the Launch
“These systems mark a significant milestone in our journey towards efficient governance and economic development,” stated President Chakwera. “They will streamline business registration processes, ensure effective land management, and enhance access to crucial information for all Malawian citizens.”
President Chakwera highlighted the importance of collaboration among government agencies, emphasizing the need for seamless integration of these systems to optimize their functionality. He urged stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and adhere to ethical standards in their utilization of these digital platforms.
