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CDH Investment Bank strengthens collaboration with parliament to drive national development

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By Chisomo Phiri

CDH Investment Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Members of Parliament (MPs) in promoting good governance, private sector growth, and sustainable national development.

Speaking during a cocktail reception the bank hosted for MPs on Tuesday, CDH Investment Bank  Chief Business Development Officer, Jamal Kamoto, said the institution values Parliament’s role in shaping policies that foster a conducive environment for investment and inclusive growth.

“We recognise the vital role that effective governance, strategic partnerships, and responsible investment play in driving sustainable development.

“As a bank, we would welcome policies that provide incentives for financial institutions to lend more to the agriculture sector.

Jamal Kamoto



“This would encourage greater private sector participation in agriculture financing, which remains insufficient to support development at the scale Malawi needs,” he said.

Kamoto further encouraged legislators to consider enacting policies that not only lower interest rates to stimulate investment but also strengthen national food security frameworks.

As part of its support to Parliament, the bank contributed K10 million towards the ongoing parliamentary orientation programme for newly elected MPs.

In her remarks, the Clerk of Parliament, Fiona Kalemba, commended CDH Investment Bank for its partnership and generous financial contribution, noting that such support enhances Parliament’s capacity-building initiatives.

“Your contribution has significantly strengthened our efforts to equip incoming Honourable Members with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective execution of their parliamentary duties.

“This collaboration will go a long way in helping us uphold and advance democratic values for the good of Mother Malawi, said Kalemba.

CDH Investment Bank is leading financial institution in the country, established to provide innovative banking and investment solutions tailored to support both individual and corporate clients.

Originally part of the Continental Discount House Group, the bank transitioned into a fully-fledged commercial bank in 2012, expanding its services to include retail, corporate, and investment banking.

It is licensed and regulated by the Reserve Bank of Malawi(RBM).

Over the years, CDH Investment Bank has built a strong reputation for excellence, integrity, and innovation in financial services.

The bank is committed to driving Malawi’s socio-economic growth by supporting key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, infrastructure, and SMEs through tailored financial products, strategic partnerships, and responsible banking practices.

A New Era for the Military as General Jaffu Assumes Command

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By Durell Namasani

In a ceremony steeped in tradition and military pageantry, General Dr. Paul Velentino Phiri formally handed over the reins of the nation’s armed forces to his successor, General George Jaffu. The historic transition of power took place on Friday at the heart of the country’s military establishment, Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe, marking the conclusion of General Phiri’s distinguished tenure.

The pivotal moment of the event saw the outgoing Chief of Defence Force pass the symbolic instruments of authority to the incoming leader. The handing over of the flag and the revered sword of command represents more than a ritual; it signifies the official and complete transfer of responsibility for the nation’s defence and the welfare of its troops. Following this act, the ceremony honoured General Phiri with a formal Pull Out Parade, a final salute from the military he led, acknowledging his years of service and dedication.

Valentino and Jaffu



This seamless transition underscores the stability and enduring discipline of the nation’s armed forces. As General Phiri departs, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, the mantle now falls upon General Jaffu. The new Chief of Defence Force assumes command at a time of evolving security challenges, entrusted with guiding the military with the same commitment and strength embodied in the symbols he now holds. The event assures the public of a steady and continuous command structure safeguarding national security.

Jaffu

Govt secures $45Million for hunger response other  donors coming

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By Linda Kwanjana

Minister of Finance Josephy Mwanamveka says the just ended International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group spring meetings successful.

Addressing the press conference in Lilongwe, Mwanamveka said Malawi secured $45Million for food procurement.

Mwanamveka said Government will use the money to procure maize from Zambia.
“We are happy that we have secured $45Million from World Bank Group and this money will be used to procure maize from Zambia and I can also confirm that World Bank President will be coming to Malawi where he will be engaging the President on a number of areas such as Food,  Fuel , Fertilizer,  Forex and Pharmaceuticals (Fs and P) ” he said the Minister.

Mwanamveka said Government has also secured $3Million in form of rice to Malawi from Chinese Government. On top of that, the Minister said China has given Malawi a debt relief of $20Million.

“As we speak Chinese  Government has also given Malawi $3Million and this will be accessed immediately and shortly you will be seing us signing with Government of China,” he said.

On Devaluation Mitigation,  the Minister said Government has no plans to devalue the Malawi Currency.

“Government does not see devaluation as a solution, Will address foreign exchange issues through:
  1. Controlling money supply
  2. Managing public debt
  3. Reviewing monetary policy
  4. Cutting unnecessary expenses (like expensive vehicle imports)
  5. Reducing government spending,” he said.

During the press conference,  Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) Governor  Dr McDonald Mafuta Mwale concurred with Mwanamveka that Government will need to find other means of generating Forex and taming inflation.

Commenting on the same , Secretary to the Treasury Cliff Chiunda said the country is in economic crisis and will need swift measures to put the economy back to its rail.

Chiunda said one such action will be to reduce the expenditure.

On those hoarding maize, Mwanamveka warned any mega farmer hording that should sell the maize now.

Mwanamveka said it is sad to note that some people can be hording maize while Malawians are suffering from hunger.

Based on the minister’s statements, here’s how these will be implemented:

Kelly Kay, Eli Njuchi, others to spice NBM plc family day gig in LL

By Linda Kwanjana

Music, laughter, and splendour will fill Peak Gardens in Lilongwe on Sunday as top local artists Kelly Kay, Eli Njuchi, Praise Umali, Fada Moti, and Temwa take the stage for a day packed with entertainment, fun, and relaxation.

The performances will headline National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc’s Family Day, a celebration designed to appreciate employees, customers, and stakeholders while promoting work-life balance and community engagement.

Akossa Hiwa



The event, to be hosted by renowned MBC Radio 2 DJ, Joy Nathu, is scheduled to run from 6 am to 5 pm and promises a vibrant mix of live music, cultural showcases, and wellness activities for all ages.

NBM plc Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager, Akossa Hiwa, said the Family Day underscores the Bank’s appreciation of its people and its commitment to shared growth.

“We are taking time to celebrate the people behind our success, our employees, their families, and our customers. This event reflects our dedication to work-life balance and the importance of building lasting relationships. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate Mo626, which has transformed digital banking in Malawi by offering secure and convenient financial solutions,” said Hiwa.

Apart from the music performances, the event will also feature yoga sessions, financial literacy games for children, and a relaxation lounge for families to unwind.

“NBM plc has always valued its people and the communities it serves. This Family Day is about deepening that connection and celebrating success together,” said Hiwa.

Excitement has already spread among customers following the Bank’s announcement on its social media pages.

One enthusiastic follower, Theressa Mwamande, said she is eager to attend and praised NBM plc for going beyond banking.

“I am really excited about this Family Day. It’s a wonderful idea that shows NBM plc cares about its customers beyond banking. It will be a great chance to relax, meet others, and enjoy quality time with family,” said Mwamande.

Adding to the excitement, Umali confirmed his performance through his page, writing: “Live with my band this coming Sunday, 16 pa Mo Family Day at Peak with National Bank of Malawi plc.”

The event will also feature raffle draws, three-legged and sack races, karaoke sessions, and fun categories such as Best Dressed Family and Most Enthusiastic Team.

Children will enjoy bouncy castles, face painting, and arts and crafts, ensuring fun for everyone.

Ministry of Lands clears air on recruitment, says
Experience, qualification, integrity determined promotions

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By Linda Kwanjana – Snr Reporter

The Ministry of Lands says  all promotions followed due process and meritorious shading off allegations of favouritism and nepotism.

The clarification settles down the allegations that have been levelled against the outgoing Principal Secretary Devie Chilonga and Commissioner for Valuation and Estate Management Mickson Chiundira.

According to Ministry of Lands Director of Human Resources Management, Francisco Zimba, the ministry had a lot of unfilled vacancies for senior positions, a development that stifled delivery.



“The promotions were meritorious, we used integrity, experience and qualifications to fill in the existing gaps,” he said.

He said, for example, “Zione Malanda is qualified and served the ministry for over years and now promoted to Deputy Director.” Others who are agitating have served less than 13 years according to file records and often with reported misconducts on file while other are being investigated by other competent agencies.

Zimba added that there were no any inches of political, tribal and regionalistic inclinations when filling the vacancies.

“Every qualified Malawian regardless of region or tribe, were accorded equal opportunity, promotions were offered to those qualified individuals who passed the interviews and nothing else.

He said “It is necessary to mention that everyone was given equal chances, for example, file records are showing that among many who were considered Blessings Mpanga and Mr Jambo Chiziwitsano from Chiradzulu and Nsanje were promoted as Deputy Directors of Quality Assurance- heading Eastern and Souther region respectively, Anthony Nzima, from the north, is the fastest promoted from P8 to become Deputy Commissioner for Lands (Land registration) Counsel Nzati Mbeko is from Blantyre was appointed Deputy Commissioner (Legal Services),  Masida Mbano from the north was promoted to Surveyor General, and was promoted, Counsel Yohane Dzowa is from Balaka, he got promoted to Deputy Director (Legal Services), Mirriam Lungu and Cynthia  Chisanu from Rumphi and Ntcheu  were promoted to Deputy Commissioners for Valuation and Property Databank respectively. Mr Jailosi Lungu from Mzimba and Mr Philimon Mkwezalamba from Lilongwe were promoted to Deputy Commissioners for Physical Planning(Enforcement/Planning).

According to Zimba,  Howel Msukwa from Chitipa, Mrs Sarah Mzunda from Chitipa, Mr Kabambe from Thyolo, Mr Peter Chikweni from Machinga, Mr Phillip Manzi from Mzimba and many others were promoted to the post of Chief Lands Officer, Chief Valuation Officer, Chief Estae Management Officer etc.

Then many others in lower cadres were also accorded opportunity to undergo interviews at Civil Service Commission which you can go and verify.

You will appreciate that it was from all the districts. Our files are open for inspection at any time.