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More kwacha,less cheers:Beer,spirits prices up

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By Chisomo Phiri

Beer and spirit consumers in the country will now be paying more for Castel Malawi’s alcoholic beverages following a price increase by the company.

The price adjustments, effective from today May 1,2025, affect several Castel products.

For instance,Kuchekuche beer now costs K1,900, up from K1,800, while Green and Special Lager are now K2,200, up from K2,000.



Chill beer now costs K2,400, up from K2,200, and Castel beer costs K1,800, up from K1,600.

Large gin bottles now cost K18,000, up from K14,000, and small gin bottles are now K5,500.

Vodka now costs K18,000, and brandy now costs K27,000.

Malawian beer consumption is projected to hit 51,000 metric tons by 2028, up from 45,000 metric tons in 2023.

This marks an average annual growth rate of 1.9%.

Since 2019, demand for beer in Malawi has been increasing at an average rate of 1.4% per year.

Veteran Broadcaster PK Leaves Times Group for Parliamentary Bid

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By Durell Namasani


Veteran broadcaster Patrick Kamkwatira, popularly known as PK, has resigned from Times Group to pursue a parliamentary seat in Neno District. Today marked his last day at the media house after years of distinguished service. 

Kamkwatira announced his decision to run as an independent candidate, aiming to bring his leadership and communication skills to national politics. “I want to serve my people directly and address the challenges facing Neno,” he said. 

Patrick Kamkwatira



Colleagues at Times Group praised his contributions, noting his professionalism and dedication. “PK has been a pillar in Malawian broadcasting. While we’ll miss him, we support his new journey,” said a senior editor. 

Political analysts say his media background could boost his campaign, but he faces tough competition from established parties. Neno residents have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming his bid while others question his political experience. 

Kamkwatira’s departure marks a significant shift in Malawi’s media and political landscape. As he transitions into politics, all eyes will be on Neno to see if his popularity translates into votes. 

Ministry of Gender launches community development month to foster self-help spirit

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By Jones Gadama

The Ministry of Gender, Community Development, and Social Welfare has dedicated the month of May to community development initiatives, aiming to promote a self-help spirit among communities.

Minister Jean Sendeza made the announcement during a ministerial statement marking the commissioning of the 2025/2026 Community Development Month in Lilongwe.

Jean Sendeza


The initiative seeks to reduce over-dependency on assistance from the government and development partners, promoting sustainable development and community empowerment.

Minister Sendeza emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders to facilitate the smooth implementation of the program, ensuring it effectively contributes to the country’s development.

The Community Development Month is designed to empower communities, promote self-reliance, and foster collaboration.

It will focus on several key areas, including adult literacy and education, household livelihoods, community participation, and nutrition and health.

The program aims to enhance access to functional adult literacy and education, promote skills development and personal growth, improve household livelihoods through initiatives that promote financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods, increase community participation in development initiatives, and promote awareness campaigns on nutrition and non-communicable diseases.

The Community Development Month is expected to have a significant impact on communities across the country, including increased self-reliance, improved livelihoods, and stronger communities.

Minister Sendeza has called on stakeholders to collaborate with the ministry in implementing the Community Development Month program, emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve common goals.

With collective effort and commitment, the Community Development Month is poised to make a lasting impact on communities across Malawi.

Communities are encouraged to participate actively in the program, taking advantage of the opportunities provided to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the country’s development.

Kabwila praises President Chakwera for supporting higher education

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By Jones Gadama

Minister of Higher Education, Jessie Kabwila, has commended President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera for his efforts in ensuring that the school calendars in institutions of higher learning are not disturbed.

Speaking at the University of Malawi graduation ceremony, Kabwila praised the President for his commitment to promoting tertiary education in the country.

According to Kabwila, President Chakwera has made significant strides in ensuring that university calendars flow as planned, allowing students to complete their studies without unnecessary disruptions.

President Chakwera



The Minister also highlighted the President’s efforts in increasing enrollment numbers in higher education institutions, providing more opportunities for Malawian students to access tertiary education.

Kabwila further commended the President for increasing the number of students benefiting from the students’ loans and upkeep allowances, making it easier for students to focus on their studies without financial hardships.

These interventions, she noted, demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting higher education and promoting the development of the country’s human capital.

Another significant issue that Kabwila praised the President for addressing is the quarter system of selecting students.

She noted that the President has ensured that all Malawian students are treated equally in the selection process, eliminating biases and promoting fairness.

This move, she said, has brought relief to many students and their families, who can now access higher education opportunities without fear of being unfairly disadvantaged.

The Minister’s praise for the President’s efforts in supporting higher education comes at a time when the sector is facing numerous challenges.

Many institutions of higher learning in Malawi have struggled with issues such as inadequate infrastructure, limited resources, and brain drain.

However, under President Chakwera’s leadership, the government has made significant investments in the sector, aimed at improving the quality of education and increasing access to higher education opportunities.

Kabwila’s comments were made during the University of Malawi graduation ceremony, where hundreds of students were awarded degrees and diplomas in various fields.

The ceremony was a celebration of the students’ hard work and dedication to their studies, and a testament to the impact of the government’s efforts in promoting higher education.

As Malawi continues to invest in its human capital, it is essential that the government remains committed to supporting higher education.

By providing more opportunities for students to access tertiary education, the government can help to build a skilled workforce that can drive the country’s economic growth and development.

Minister Kabwila’s praise for President Chakwera’s efforts in supporting higher education is well-deserved.

The President’s commitment to promoting tertiary education and eliminating biases in the selection process is a significant step towards building a more inclusive and equitable education system.

As Malawi continues to develop its human capital, it is essential that the government remains committed to supporting higher education and promoting the development of the country’s future leaders.

MEC prepares for elections with key logistical arrangements

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By Jones Gadama

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) is making significant strides in preparation for the upcoming elections, with key logistical arrangements being put in place to ensure a smooth and transparent process.

According to MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, the commission intends to award the contract for printing ballot papers and results forms to Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing of the United Arab Emirates.

This development is part of MEC’s efforts to ensure that all necessary materials are in place for the elections.



The commission is also finalizing the procurement of indelible ink, which will be used to mark voters’ fingers as a security measure to prevent multiple voting.

Additionally, MEC is procuring additional Election Management Devices (EMDs) that will facilitate biometric identification of voters on polling day.

The use of biometric voter identification is a crucial aspect of the electoral process, as it helps to ensure the integrity and credibility of the elections.

The EMDs will enable the verification of voters’ identities, reducing the risk of impersonation and other forms of electoral malpractice.

In preparation for the announcement of election results, MEC is setting up a National Results Centre in Lilongwe.

The commission is currently assessing available facilities within the city.