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Youth empowerment: Chakwera launches K2bn youth innovation fund

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By Linda Kwanjana

Chapter 13 and page 42 of Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Manifesto recognize youth as critical partners in social , economic and political Development.

In the manifesto MCP says it is aware that the youth constitute a large proportion of the Malawi population hence the party promised to engage them in all aspects of national development.



True to its word today Malawi President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi, officially  opened a three-day 2025 Malawi National Youth Summit.

Held under the theme: “Harnessing Youth Innovation for Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Job Creation Towards Malawi 2063,” the summit brought together over 1,000 young people, policymakers, as well as development partners.

President Chakwera also  took advantage of the summit, to launch a K2 billion Youth Innovation Fund, which is aimed at economically empowering the country’s youth to stir national development. The event has been organized by the National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM).

Speaking during the event President Chakwera said his Government launched Malawi 2063, national vision, which puts young people at the heart of economic
transformation.

“Second, I developed and rolled out the National Youth Policy, providing a clear and coordinated framework for youth engagement and empowerment,” he said.

Chakwera said his Government also resuscitated the National Youth Council of
Malawi, increasing its capacity, expanding its budget, and empowering it to serve with real impact.

The Malawi leader was welcomed on arrival by several top government officials. Upon his arrival, President Chakwera accompanied by First Lady Madam Monica Chakwera, toured a number of pavilions showcasing goods and services by youths from various parts of the country.

NBM plc assures on Akiba turn-over – approve K59 billion dividend

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By Linda Kwanjana The National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has re-assured investors of a strategic turn-over of the performance of its Tanzanian subsidiary, Akiba Commercial Bank, which posted a loss in the 2024 financial year.

The re-assurance came during the Bank’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Monday at its Leadership Centre in Blantyre after shareholders raised concerns over the continued poor performance of the Bank.

Responding to the concerns, NBM plc Board Chairperson, Jimmy Lipunga acknowledged the disappointment surrounding Akiba’s performance but emphasized that the Bank remains in its investment phase.

NBM Annual General Meeting

“The concern is very legit, and what we did as management is to get to the bottom of the issue. The business is viable. The losses are due to legacy loans issued in the past. We had not yet started rolling out new products due to other factors. That said, we believe the best days are ahead of us,” said Lipunga.

Despite the subsidiary’s underperformance, NBM plc posted a strong financial showing, registering an after-tax profit of K101.71 billion for the year ending December 31, 2024.

As a result, shareholders approved a final dividend of K28.6 billion which is K61.25 per share, bringing the total dividend payout for 2024 to K59 billion which translates into K126.35 per share.

Investor Joe Maere, welcomed the dividend declaration but acknowledged the concerns raised over Akiba’s financial standing.

“We are happy with the Bank’s overall profit and the returns we have received as investors. But we also hope that Akiba’s challenges are being addressed with the urgency they deserve,” he said.

The AGM also marked the retirement of Lipunga after three years of service as Board Chairperson.

In his farewell remarks, Lipunga reflected on key milestones achieved during his tenure, including the historic K100.1 billion profit recorded under his leadership.

“I am proud of the work we have done and the growth we have achieved together. My only regret is not seeing more women ascend to executive management positions during my time. This is an area that still needs deliberate action,” said Lipunga.

Chaos erupts after sugar-laden truck overturns in Nkhotakota

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By Rahim Abdul

A sugar haul worth thousands was stolen by onlookers after a Load Master freightliner truck, carrying 1,600 bales of sugar from Dwangwa to Mzuzu, overturned at Lwazi.

The truck, belonging to Illovo Sugar Company, was left with significant damage, but fortunately, the driver, Horriable Ngoma, escaped with minor injuries.

However, instead of receiving help from the community, Ngoma was met with chaos as people rushed to the scene to loot the sugar bales.



The swift response was driven by opportunism rather than altruism, with the crowd smashing the vehicle in the process.

Nkhata Bay Police Traffic Inspector Jimmy Kanzangaza condemned the trend of people prioritizing looting over rescuing accident victims, describing it as “disturbing behavior that’s becoming all too common.

” Only about 400 bales, or 25% of the total, have been recovered so far, with the rest carted away by the crowd”,he explained.

The police are urging the community to respect the law and prioritize human life over material gain.

Monkey Bay Police tackle road safety challenges

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By Rahim Abdul

Senior Superintendent Sikanadze Clifford Mkweche, Officer-in-Charge of Monkey Bay Police, has identified motorcycle taxis as a major contributor to road accidents in the area.

However, he noted a decline in the number of recorded road accidents, with only 11 cases reported as of June this year, compared to 17 during the same period last year.

Speaking at a stakeholder meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration among community safety groups, Superintendent Mkweche urged all road users to promptly report accidents to the police.


The meeting, attended by representatives from various sectors, emphasized the importance of timely reporting to ensure affected parties receive appropriate support.

While motorcycle taxis remain a concern, the decline in accidents is a positive trend.

Superintendent Mkweche’s call for cooperation among road users and stakeholders is crucial in promoting road safety and reducing accidents in the area.

Thyolo to sizzle on independence day with the sound experience concert!



By Rahim Abdul

Thyolo is gearing up for a massive celebration on Malawi’s Independence Day, July 6, with The Sound Experience concert featuring a star-studded lineup of local artists.

The concert will host 6th Mw, Jay Tway, Salsfy Mw, Struggle B, Achim Afika, Max One, Rechol, and L Static at Harare Drive.

Tickets are going for K3000 per head, and the event will be hosted by Thyolo’s renowned MC, K Zambia.

With 6th Mw promising to perform his hit song “Pangolin,” this concert is shaping up to be an unforgettable night of music and entertainment.



The event promises to bring together music lovers from all over Thyolo and beyond.

It’s going to be a night to remember, with great music, fantastic company, and Independence Day celebrations.

The Sound Experience concert is expected to be a huge success, with many fans already looking forward to it.

Thyolo has been buzzing with excitement, and the concert is set to be the highlight of the Independence Day celebrations.

The lineup is diverse, with something for everyone, ensuring that all attendees will have a great time.

On July 6, Thyolo will come alive with music and entertainment, and The Sound Experience concert will be an unforgettable night.

The concert will be a great way to celebrate Malawi’s Independence Day, with music, laughter, and good company.