The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services (DCCMS) has announced plans to pilot the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its weather forecasting operations.
The initiative is part of Malawi’s broader efforts to enhance accuracy, speed, and efficiency in climate prediction and disaster management.
DCCMS Head of Public Weather and Aviation Services, Yobu Kachiwanda, confirmed that preparations for adopting AI in weather forecasting have reached an advanced stage.
He said the department is currently developing software prototypes tailored specifically for Malawi’s local context and climatic conditions.
“We plan to conduct stakeholder engagement and user consultations related to AI forecasting operations, but this will be done once all prototypes have been developed and are ready for testing,” said Kachiwanda.
He explained that the introduction of AI-driven forecasting tools will allow meteorologists to process large volumes of atmospheric data in real time, resulting in more reliable predictions.
The new system is also expected to help authorities issue timely alerts and improve decision-making in agriculture, aviation, and disaster management.
Public Relations Officer for the Department of Disaster and Risk Management
The Parliament of Malawi has reaffirmed its strong partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), underscoring their shared commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, promoting transparency, and enhancing parliamentary effectiveness.
Speaking during a cocktail reception for Members of Parliament-elect and development partners in Lilongwe on Thursday, Clerk of Parliament Fiona Kalemba commended UNDP for its consistent technical and financial support towards parliamentary reforms and the ongoing orientation programme for newly elected legislators, which concludes on Friday.
Frost
Kalemba highlighted key achievements under the partnership, including the digitisation of parliamentary operations through a modern Hansard transcription system, upgraded chamber conferencing facilities, and the launch of Parliament Television, which has improved public access to parliamentary proceedings.
She noted that these initiatives have modernised Parliament’s operations and strengthened citizen engagement.
She said UNDP has also played a vital role in supporting the current orientation programme and is expected to fund future political leadership and governance training sessions for MPs.
In her remarks, UNDP Resident Representative Fenella Frost praised Parliament for organising a well-structured and impactful induction for the incoming MPs.
She stressed that young legislators bear a special responsibility to represent the aspirations and concerns of Malawi’s youthful population.
Frost further encouraged the Parliamentary Secretariat to review and update the orientation curriculum regularly to ensure it remains relevant, practical, and aligned with modern governance standards.
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.
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.
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:
