Mzuzu-based female gospel artist Lizzie Munthali, has released her new single titled ‘Ngandiyayiro’ a Tumbuka song translating to ‘Just like Jairus’ in English.
In an interview with 247 Malawi News, Munthali,20, said the new song’s main message is about calling upon Jesus to intervene in situations that seem insurmountable.
She said the song draws inspiration from the biblical story of Jairus, who sought Jesus’ help for his ailing daughter (Luke 8:40) and encourages listeners to trust in Jesus’ power and guidance.
Lizzie Munthali
Munthali revealed that she was motivated to compose the song during a challenging period in her life.
She said although the song is based on a Tumbuka hymn,she rearranged the tune to create a unique sound.
The young gospel singer said the single was produced at CF Studios in Mzuzu by Chifundo Mkandawire.
She expressed her excitement about the growing music industry in the country, citing the abundance of talented artists and producers.
Munthali said she believes that the industry is rapidly expanding, creating new opportunities for local artists to gain international recognition.
She concluded by expressing gratitude to God for entrusting her with her talent and thanking her supporters for their encouragement.
Watch the song:https://youtu.be/tbk3FJ0ekT8?feature=shared
The ongoing funding freeze of State Department programs has left numerous scholars stranded both in America and abroad, facing financial uncertainty and disrupted academic careers.
A notable case is that of Aubrey Lay, a Fulbright scholar, who was eagerly anticipating three months of financial support through his teaching assistantship at a school for Ukrainian refugees in Estonia.
Aubrey Lay’s experience has raised alarm among other scholars who rely on government funding for their academic and professional engagements abroad.
As per reports from the Associated Press, Lay was set to receive payment for three months of work, which was crucial to his livelihood while assisting in the education of displaced Ukrainian refugees in Estonia.
This role was part of a program designed to not only provide educational assistance but also support the broader diplomatic and humanitarian objectives of the U.S. government.
However, the situation took a sudden turn when Lay only received about one week’s worth of pay instead of the full amount he was owed.
The payment issue arose from the freeze on funding for the U.S. State Department’s educational programs, which has impacted scholars across various academic disciplines and regions.
Lay, like many others, has been left in limbo, with no clear indication of when or if the remainder of his grant will be disbursed.
This funding freeze has caused significant disruption to many scholars’ research and teaching activities.
Some, like Lay, had already made arrangements to work abroad for a fixed period, only to face abrupt changes in their financial arrangements.
Many scholars, especially those in foreign countries, are now struggling to cover their living expenses and continue their professional commitments without the promised funding.
The U.S. State Department’s funding freeze has not only affected scholars working in Europe but also those in other parts of the world.
In countries where U.S.-funded educational programs have been vital to local communities, the freeze has created a ripple effect, hindering the delivery of key academic and humanitarian support.
Refugees and other vulnerable populations who rely on such programs are especially at risk, as the disruptions have created gaps in critical services and learning opportunities.
The uncertainty surrounding these grants has also led to increased stress among scholars who fear that their academic careers may be permanently impacted.
For many, the financial support from the U.S. government is a key component of their ability to participate in research and teach in international settings.
Without this funding, many are left scrambling for alternative sources of income or are forced to return home prematurely, cutting short their academic contributions and leaving projects unfinished.
This situation highlights a broader issue concerning the role of government funding in supporting global educational and humanitarian efforts.
While scholars and researchers are often seen as vital to diplomatic and cultural exchange, disruptions in funding can undermine these objectives and have far-reaching consequences.
For those like Aubrey Lay, the inability to rely on promised financial support raises questions about the stability and reliability of U.S. educational programs abroad, which many scholars depend on for their professional development.
The freeze has also sparked discussions about the political and economic factors that contribute to these disruptions.
As the U.S. government grapples with domestic issues and shifting foreign policy priorities, funding for international programs has become a point of contention.
Scholars and academic institutions are now calling for increased transparency and a commitment to funding continuity, especially in times of global uncertainty when international collaborations are more important than ever.
The plight of scholars like Aubrey Lay serves as a reminder of the human impact of funding decisions made at the governmental level.
The delay in payments and the uncertainty surrounding future funding have left many academics in precarious positions.
While some may find temporary solutions, others may face long-term consequences if the freeze is prolonged.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the U.S. State Department will address the concerns of affected scholars and ensure the continuity of educational programs abroad.
For now, those like Aubrey Lay continue to wait, hoping for a resolution that will allow them to continue their important work, whether in Estonia or elsewhere, without the looming fear of financial instability.
 Afro-pop artist Salsfy 265’s latest single, “Napita,” featuring L-Static, shines a light on the resilience of true love.
The Thyolo-based artist’s soulful voice and poignant lyrics weave a narrative that encourages lovers to hold on to each other despite the challenges they may face.
Salsfy 265, whose real name is Hope Mataka, shared the inspiration behind “Napita.”
Salsfy 265,
“The song is a reflection of today’s relationships, where true love is tested in harsh conditions,” he explained.
The 3-minute 7-second music video, directed by Afoto Harrys under Upset Creation, perfectly complements the song’s narrative.
L-Static joins Salsfy 265 on the second verse, delivering a powerful hip-hop flow that echoes the song’s message.
The chemistry between the two artists is undeniable, creating a compelling visual and auditory experience.
The song’s producer, Ase Hyke, is also showcased in the outro, highlighting the team effort that went into creating this powerful track.
“‘Napita’ carries a powerful message that will resonate with fans, highlighting the challenges lovers face due to poverty,” Salsfy 265 said.
In a rare display of unity across political lines, Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) Member of Parliament Yeremia Chihana actively participated in the Mpumulo wa Bata cleaning exercise.
Chihana’s involvement in the initiative highlights the importance of national unity and service beyond party affiliations.
During the event, a striking moment was captured where Chihana was seen holding hands with the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) Administration Secretary, Honourable Francis Mphepo.
The two political figures, often representing different ideological perspectives, walked together in a symbolic gesture of solidarity.
Their gigantic walk around the mausoleum demonstrated that despite political differences, leaders can come together for a common cause.
Standing nearby and observing the moment was another prominent political figure, Honourable Charles Nchacha.
The event underscored the need for political leaders to set aside their partisan differences in the interest of national progress.
By engaging in community service together, Chihana and Mphepo sent a strong message about the power of collaboration in nation-building.
The Mpumulo wa Bata cleaning exercise provided an opportunity for politicians to work together towards a cause that benefits all Malawians.
This moment of unity serves as a reminder that political diversity should not be a barrier to collective efforts aimed at improving the country.
Observers have praised the interaction, calling for more such initiatives that bring leaders from different parties together.
Political analysts argue that Malawi needs more of these gestures to reduce divisions and promote national harmony.
The involvement of leaders from both AFORD and DPP in the same initiative signals a step toward fostering mutual respect in the country’s political landscape.
As Malawi continues to face economic and social challenges, such acts of political cooperation could pave the way for more constructive dialogue.
Citizens have expressed hope that this example will inspire other political leaders to put the country’s interests above party loyalty.
If sustained, these moments of unity could contribute to reducing political tensions and fostering a culture of cooperation in governance.
Recent reports have surfaced about a theft involving the seats at Bingu Stadium, a situation that has left the local community in shock.
The incident has particularly affected the residents of Mtandire, a nearby area to the stadium, who are expressing concern over the theft.
It is believed that the seats, which are part of an ongoing stadium upgrade, were stolen by a group of individuals identified as Shine people.
These individuals are suspected to have carried out the act under the cover of darkness, taking away the valuable stadium seats.
The stolen seats were meant to enhance the experience of football fans and other event-goers, creating a more comfortable and engaging atmosphere at the stadium.
Bingu Stadium, located in the capital city of Lilongwe, is a landmark venue for sports in Malawi, named after the late President Bingu wa Mutharika.
The stolen seats were an important part of the upgrade project, which aims to modernize the stadium and increase its capacity for both local and international events.
The theft has raised serious questions about security at the stadium and the need for increased vigilance around public infrastructure.
Residents of Mtandire, who had been eagerly awaiting the completion of the stadium’s improvements, are now frustrated and disappointed by the setback caused by the theft.
The community had seen the stadium upgrade as a significant opportunity for local pride and development, as the new seats would allow the venue to accommodate more spectators and attract larger events.
Now, with the theft of the seats, the project has been delayed, and the local population is left wondering when the stadium will be fully operational.
Authorities have been informed about the incident, and investigations are currently underway to track down those responsible for the theft.
The local police, along with stadium officials, are working together to ensure that the stolen seats are recovered and that security measures are strengthened to prevent such incidents in the future.
The theft has also brought to light the need for better protection of public properties, particularly as Malawi continues to make strides toward improving its infrastructure for sports and entertainment.
Despite the setback, the people of Mtandire remain hopeful that the project will eventually be completed, and the stadium will once again serve as a symbol of local and national pride.
Community leaders have called for greater unity in safeguarding public resources, encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity to prevent future thefts.
The authorities are determined to ensure that the stolen seats are returned and that the upgrade project can continue without further interruptions.
For now, the residents of Mtandire are left in anticipation, hoping that the stadium’s improvements will soon be completed, providing a space for enjoyment, community engagement, and sporting excellence.
