The Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has proposed a comprehensive overhaul of laws to explicitly prohibit corporal punishment of children in schools and homes.
The proposed reforms, if enacted, would impose penalties of up to K10 million on parents, guardians, or teachers found guilty of administering corporal punishment.
Speaking during the presentation of the proposal to the Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Jean Sendeza, in Lilongwe on Tuesday, MHRC Executive Habiba Osman,said the proposed changes would impact several key laws, including the Constitution, the Child Care, Protection and Justice Act, and the Education Act.
Osman warned that unchecked violence against children can lead to a cycle of abuse, with victims often becoming perpetrators in adulthood.
On her part, Sendeza acknowledged the persistence of corporal punishment in the country’s schools and homes.
Sendeza assured that her ministry will collaborate with the Ministry of Justice to review the necessary laws.
In a groundbreaking moment for the Malawian and Zambian music industries, Banapwanya—a powerful collaboration between Malawi’s Mix Kell Kelly and Zambia’s Yo Maps and Prince Luv—has surpassed 25 million views on YouTube just one year after its release.
This milestone marks a major achievement not only for the artists involved but also for the regional music scene, showcasing the growing appeal and reach of Southern African talent on the global stage.
Banapwanya, which translates to “They Have Crushed” in Chichewa, is a soulful Afro-pop ballad that explores themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and emotional resilience, striking a deep emotional chord with audiences across Africa.
Mix Kell Kelly, known in Malawi for his raw vocal strength and lyrical depth, takes the lead on the track with a heartfelt performance that captures the pain of lost love.
Zambia’s Yo Maps, one of the most streamed and decorated artists in the region, adds his signature smooth harmonies and heartfelt delivery, elevating the song’s appeal with his undeniable star power.
Prince Luv, another rising sensation from Zambia, complements the collaboration with his soft and expressive vocals, offering a delicate counterbalance to the intensity of the lead verses.
The music video, directed with cinematic brilliance and released on YouTube in July 2024, tells a visually compelling story of love gone wrong, filmed between Lilongwe and Lusaka to reflect the cross-border spirit of the song.
Its authentic storyline, relatable emotion, and high production value helped the video go viral shortly after release, gaining traction not only in Malawi and Zambia but also in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya, and the diaspora communities abroad.
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Facebook Reels, played a vital role in the song’s rapid spread, with thousands of users creating breakup-themed content using the song’s chorus and bridge.
Music critics and fans alike have praised Banapwanya for its lyrical richness and musical arrangement, hailing it as one of the most moving and relatable African collaborations of recent years.
The song’s success is also symbolic of a cultural bridge between Malawi and Zambia, two nations that share not only a border but also deep musical and linguistic ties.
Streaming experts suggest that the 25 million views represent more than just numbers—they reflect the emotional connection that fans have formed with the song, as well as the growing demand for authentic, well-produced African music content.
For Mix Kell Kelly, this moment marks a defining point in his career, propelling him from a local talent to an international voice of emotional storytelling through music.
For Yo Maps and Prince Luv, the collaboration affirms their influence beyond Zambia and their ability to uplift emerging voices while still delivering excellence.
As the music video continues to rack up views, and the song dominates playlists on Spotify, Boomplay, Apple Music, and Audiomack, Banapwanya stands tall as a true African success story.
This record-breaking achievement reminds us that when artists from different cultures come together with sincerity and passion, they can produce magic that transcends borders and speaks to hearts everywhere.
In a heartfelt message to Malawians, UDF leader Atupele Muluzi has raised serious concerns about the growing cost of living, particularly the skyrocketing prices of food.
Muluzi began his statement with a blunt but powerful reality: “No money = no food.”
He noted that the high cost of basic food items is making everyday life unbearable for millions of families across Malawi.
According to him, many households are struggling just to put food on the table, with some parents unsure how they will feed their children the next day.
Atupele Muluzi
Muluzi’s message reflects a deepening crisis that is affecting both rural and urban communities, as inflation continues to eat into wages and savings.
He stressed that the country cannot afford to continue on its current path of economic hardship and inaction.
Malawi, he said, needs leadership that not only acknowledges the daily struggles of its citizens but is ready to confront them with urgency and honesty.
Muluzi urged Malawians to unite in demanding a new direction for the nation—one that prioritizes people’s needs over political survival.
“Now is the time to come together and deliver the change our nation needs,” he declared, ending his statement with the Malawian flag emoji and a hopeful call to action.
Using the hashtags #ChangeIsComing and #JoinTheMovement, Muluzi signaled the beginning of what many are interpreting as a campaign message rooted in empathy and reform.
The statement is already gaining traction online, resonating with citizens who feel left behind in the current economic climate.
With elections just over two months away, Muluzi’s remarks may mark a turning point in how political leaders engage with the bread-and-butter issues affecting the average Malawian.
Observers now await how other presidential candidates will respond to this bold and emotionally charged message from the UDF torchbearer.
With only five days to go before the official campaign period for Malawi’s September 16 General Elections begins, a growing debate has emerged around the conspicuous silence of presidential candidates on their choice of running mates.
The absence of clear vice-presidential contenders has left both the electorate and political analysts questioning the strategies and intentions of the country’s presidential hopefuls.
While some observers believe the delay is a tactical move to avoid early scrutiny and internal friction, others argue it undermines transparency and voter preparedness.
This running mate puzzle has now sparked broader conversations on the need for electoral reforms, with suggestions that the current legal framework fails to promote accountability.
Among those calling for change is Mabvuto Bamusi, the Publicity Secretary for the Political Science Association of Malawi, who has voiced concern over the recurring trend of last-minute running mate announcements.
Bamusi has proposed the enactment of legislation that would compel presidential aspirants to name their running mates at the point of collecting nomination papers.
According to Bamusi, such a law would enhance the democratic process by ensuring that voters are fully informed about the presidential team they are being asked to support.
He argues that a running mate is not a mere formality but an integral part of the leadership that will shape the country’s future.
Critics of the current approach say that it deprives the electorate of ample time to evaluate the vice-presidential candidate’s capabilities, background, and alignment with the presidential agenda.
They further warn that rushed selections done close to the campaign deadline often result in poorly vetted choices driven by political expediency rather than competence.
However, not all analysts agree with the proposal for legal intervention, with some maintaining that political parties should retain flexibility in making strategic decisions.
These analysts believe that forcing early declarations may box parties into choices that could later prove to be politically damaging.
They point out that the unpredictability of the political terrain requires room for maneuver, especially in coalition negotiations or balancing regional interests.
Nevertheless, the broader consensus remains that the current ambiguity around running mates fuels public anxiety and weakens confidence in political leadership.
As the clock ticks toward the campaign kickoff, pressure is mounting on candidates to reveal their second-in-command and clarify the team they intend to lead the nation with.
For now, Malawians are left watching closely, hoping that the choices made will reflect competence, integrity, and national unity rather than mere political convenience.
A significant partnership has been forged between Ebenezer Investment, Mpira Mudzi Mwathu, and the Football Legends Association to empower former football players through skills development and entrepreneurship.
The one-year partnership, sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to equip retired footballers and legends with the skills and knowledge needed to transition successfully into new careers.
According to Chimango Munthali, Director and Founder of Mpira Mudzi Mwathu, the initiative will help former players acquire new skills and become entrepreneurs, ensuring they remain relevant and empowered after their sporting careers.
Ebenezer Investment Executive Director Jane Midian Nfune emphasized the importance of supporting football legends in their post-retirement lives, enabling them to build sustainable careers.
The partnership will provide football legends with regular training sessions in graphic design, printing, and other practical skills offered by Ebenezer Investment.
Football Legends Association Chairperson Jimu Kalua expressed gratitude to Ebenezer Investment and Mpira Mudzi Mwathu for their support, highlighting the positive impact this initiative will have on former players.
This collaboration is a commendable effort to support the welfare of former football players, providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive beyond their playing careers.
