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ADMARC to earn K1.4 billion from cotton exports to Switzerland

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By Jones Gadama

The Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (ADMARC) is set to earn over $800,000 (approximately K1.4 billion) from the export of 123 metric tonnes of cotton lint to Switzerland.

This development is expected to significantly contribute to the country’s foreign exchange needs.

The export earnings were revealed during a media engagement at ADMARC’s Ngabu Ginnery division in Chikwawa District.

According to Lovemore Mwantis, the division’s manager, the cotton lint is being exported to Switzerland, a country that has shown interest in Malawi’s cotton.



Malawi’s cotton is in high demand in several countries, including France, Switzerland, Bangladesh, and Brazil.

However, Mwantis noted that the 123 metric tonnes being exported to Switzerland is lower than the demand for the country’s cotton in these markets.

ADMARC has three cotton ginneries, namely Karonga, Balaka, and Ngabu, each with a 50,000 metric tonne capacity of unprocessed cotton. However, due to low production levels, only the Ngabu ginnery is currently operational.

The earnings from the cotton exports will contribute to the country’s foreign exchange reserves, which are essential for importing goods and services.

The export of cotton is one of the ways Malawi can earn foreign exchange, and ADMARC’s efforts in this regard are commendable.

The cotton industry in Malawi has the potential to grow, but it faces several challenges, including low production levels and limited access to markets.

ADMARC’s efforts to export cotton to countries such as Switzerland are a step in the right direction, and the corporation needs to continue exploring ways to increase production and access new markets.

The government and other stakeholders also need to support the cotton industry by providing farmers with access to inputs, extension services, and market information. This will help to increase production levels and improve the livelihoods of farmers who depend on cotton as a cash crop.

ADMARC’s cotton export earnings will contribute significantly to the country’s foreign exchange needs.

The corporation needs to continue exploring ways to increase production and access new markets to maximize the benefits of cotton exports.

With the right support and investments, the cotton industry in Malawi can grow and contribute to the country’s economic development.

The earnings from the cotton exports are a positive development for the country’s economy, and it is essential for ADMARC to continue working towards increasing production levels and exploring new markets for Malawi’s cotton.

By doing so, the corporation can help to improve the livelihoods of farmers and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

As the country continues to promote its cotton industry, it is essential to address the challenges that farmers and the industry face.

This includes providing support to farmers, improving infrastructure, and promoting market access.

By working together, Malawi can maximize the benefits of its cotton industry and contribute to the country’s economic development.

Nation mourns Chikumbutso Mtumodzi: A dedicated public servant laid to rest in Lilongwe

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By Burnett Munthali

A somber atmosphere engulfed Mthunzi Funeral Services in Lilongwe as mourners gathered to bid farewell to Chikumbutso Mtumodzi, a respected public servant who served as Principal Secretary for the Department of Procurement and Supplies Services until his passing.

The funeral service attracted family, friends, government officials, and members of the public who came to pay their last respects to a man who had devoted much of his professional life to public service and national development.



Mtumodzi was widely regarded for his diligence, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to improving government procurement systems, often advocating for transparency and efficiency in the public sector.

Prior to his most recent role, Mtumodzi served as Director of Information, a position in which he played a crucial role in managing government communication and ensuring timely dissemination of information to the public.

During his tenure as Director of Information, he worked closely with both local and international media, championing the importance of press freedom while also reinforcing the government’s message on key national policies.

Speakers at the funeral service described Mtumodzi as a visionary leader, a patriotic citizen, and a humble individual who always prioritized the interests of Malawians over personal gain.

Colleagues from the civil service shared testimonies of Mtumodzi’s remarkable leadership style, noting his ability to inspire others through mentorship and example.

Family members, while visibly heartbroken, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community and the government, acknowledging the impact Mtumodzi had on many lives.

As the coffin was lowered, there were emotional scenes with many mourners overwhelmed by the magnitude of the loss, not just to the family, but to the country as a whole.

Government representatives present at the service promised to continue upholding the principles Mtumodzi stood for, particularly integrity in public office and commitment to duty.

His contributions, particularly in the procurement and information sectors, will be remembered as part of his lasting legacy in Malawi’s public administration.

The funeral concluded with prayers and the singing of hymns, marking the end of an era for a man who dedicated his life to serving Malawi with honor and purpose.

May his soul rest in peace.

The Late Mtumodzi

MCP’s Chalo Mvula mourns Comrade Chikumbutso Mtumodzi in heartfelt tribute

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By Burnett Munthali

The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has joined the nation in mourning the death of Chikumbutso Mtumodzi, a senior civil servant who until his passing served as Principal Secretary in the Department of Procurement and Supply Services.

Among the many voices paying tribute is Chalo Mvula, the party’s Second Deputy Director of International Affairs, who took to his Facebook page to express profound shock and sorrow at the news.

Mvula and the late Mtumodzi (in glasses)



In his emotionally charged post, Mvula wrote, “Gutted to hear about the passing of Comrade Chikumbutso Mtumodzi. A good man, a great friend. Rest in Peace.”

Mvula’s choice of words reflected deep personal loss as well as the broader emotional weight felt within the MCP and Malawian society at large.

His use of the term “comrade” emphasized the political and professional bond he shared with Mtumodzi, a fellow patriot known for his contributions to public service and governance.

The tribute immediately resonated with many, drawing responses from friends, colleagues, and ordinary Malawians who recognized Mtumodzi as a committed public servant.

Chikumbutso Mtumodzi previously served as Director of Information, a role that placed him at the heart of government communications and public engagement.

In that position, he earned respect for his clarity, patriotism, and dedication to truth-telling—qualities that made him a pillar in Malawi’s information landscape.

As Principal Secretary for Procurement and Supply Services, he worked tirelessly to ensure transparency and efficiency in government procurement, an area often marred by controversy.

His leadership in the department was widely seen as a stabilizing force and one that embodied the kind of professional ethics Malawians yearn for in public institutions.

Chalo Mvula’s tribute served not just as a note of mourning but also as a reflection on the legacy that Mtumodzi leaves behind.

It highlighted the strong network of friendships and political alliances Mtumodzi had cultivated over the years, both within and outside the Malawi Congress Party.

In Mvula’s brief yet powerful statement, many found their own feelings articulated—feelings of loss, gratitude, and respect for a man whose life was cut short but lived with purpose.

The loss of Mtumodzi has created a vacuum, especially in the civil service, where his institutional memory and leadership were seen as invaluable.

His death also comes at a time when Malawi is grappling with serious governance challenges, making his absence even more deeply felt by those who valued his contributions.

As the country continues to mourn, tributes like Chalo Mvula’s are a testament to Mtumodzi’s enduring impact on Malawi’s political and administrative fabric.

The Malawi Congress Party, through figures like Mvula, has shown that Mtumodzi was not only a colleague but also a friend, a mentor, and a patriot.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Vice President Dr. Michael Usi Attends Funeral of Principal Secretary Chikumbutso Mtumodzi

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By Durell Namasani

Lilongwe, Tuesday – Vice President Dr. Michael Usi joined mourners at the funeral service of Principal Secretary for the Department of Procurement and Supply Services, Chikumbutso Mtumodzi, at his Area 10 residence in Lilongwe on Tuesday afternoon. 

Mtumodzi, who also served as former Director of Information, passed away on Monday at Partners in Hope Hospital in Lilongwe. His death has been met with deep sorrow from government officials, colleagues, and the public. 



The funeral was attended by high-ranking officials, including Secretary to the President and Cabinet Colleen Zamba, several Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials, and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) leaders. The gathering reflected Mtumodzi’s significant contributions to public service and his respected role in government. 

Details regarding the cause of death have not yet been disclosed. Tributes poured in for Mtumodzi, with many praising his dedication and leadership in both the information and procurement sectors. 

Burial is expected this Wednesday as the nation mourns the loss of a distinguished civil servant. 

Usi

Call for independent candidacy: Chiefs in Kasiya urge Judith Zaina Nkhwangwi to contest as MP

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By Burnett Munthali

Supporters of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) in the Mude area of Kasiya, Lilongwe District, have been urged by some traditional leaders to ask Judith Zaina Nkhwangwi to contest as an independent candidate for the constituency’s parliamentary seat.

This appeal comes amid growing concerns and uncertainty surrounding the results of the MCP’s primary elections held on April 19, whose official outcomes have not yet been announced.

Rumors circulating among residents in the jurisdiction of Senior Chief Khongoni suggest that Mphatso Boti emerged victorious in the primaries.

However, some community members feel the process was flawed, with complaints and suspicions being voiced in local discussions.

According to Ronald Daimoni, a community leader from Kabudula-Demera Zone, it was wise to heed the chiefs’ call and inform Ms. Nkhwangwi of the desire from grassroots communities for her to stand as an independent candidate.

Judith Zaina Nkhwangwi



He emphasized that this reflects the genuine will of the people in the area, who feel their voice is being stifled by party influences.

Daimoni issued a stern warning to some party officials whom he accused of intentionally interfering in the primary election process because they have their preferred candidate.

He argued that such interference violates the democratic rights of ordinary villagers who deserve to freely choose their representative.

He went on to claim that it is evident the primary election process on April 19 was mishandled, hence the delay in publicly announcing the results, unlike in other constituencies where results were declared swiftly and transparently.

He expressed concern over the inconsistency between the records kept in the official Constituency Book and those held by the electoral administrators of the primaries.

Daimoni said this discrepancy has raised serious doubts about the credibility of the entire process and has fueled the frustration now felt by community members.

He added that the failure to address these concerns openly has only deepened suspicion and made the demand for a more transparent alternative stronger.

It is in this context that traditional authorities have now stepped in, advising constituents to rally behind Ms. Nkhwangwi as an independent candidate to ensure their voices are not silenced.

Observers say this move could signal growing discontent with internal party procedures and a push for greater accountability within political parties.

As the MCP continues to delay the release of the primary results for Kasiya, the groundswell of support for Ms. Nkhwangwi may evolve into a full-blown political shift in the constituency.

The coming weeks are likely to be tense, as party leaders, aspiring candidates, and voters navigate the fallout of what many see as a compromised selection process.

For now, residents in Kasiya await clarity — but their message is clear: they want a leader who represents their true will, even if it means stepping outside party lines.