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Muluzi unveils ‘business first’ strategy as roadmap to Malawi’s economic prosperity

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By Burnett Munthali

Leader of the United Democratic Front (UDF), Atupele Muluzi, is today holding a press briefing in Lilongwe where he is unveiling his Business First strategy, which he describes as a roadmap to Malawi’s prosperity.

This highly anticipated event marks a significant moment in Malawi’s political and economic discourse, as Muluzi seeks to position himself as a transformative leader focused on economic revival.

Muluzi



The venue in Lilongwe is abuzz with activity, with members of various media houses gathered to capture every detail of the address.

Political party leaders from across the spectrum have also graced the event, signaling the national relevance of the proposed strategy.

Notably, the briefing has attracted the presence of key stakeholders from the business sector, including entrepreneurs, industrial players, and representatives from trade and investment institutions.

This diverse attendance underscores the wide interest in Muluzi’s new direction for Malawi, particularly in the context of growing economic challenges and rising youth unemployment.

In his address, Atupele Muluzi describes the Business First strategy as a practical, inclusive, and forward-thinking roadmap that places economic growth, entrepreneurship, and private sector development at the heart of national development.

He argues that Malawi cannot achieve sustainable development through politics alone, but rather through sound economic policies that empower citizens to participate meaningfully in wealth creation.

According to Muluzi, the Business First approach prioritizes job creation, investment incentives, market reforms, and infrastructure development as the pillars of prosperity.

He emphasizes the need for government to create an enabling environment where businesses can thrive, and where local innovations are nurtured and exported to the global market.

Muluzi also highlights the urgency of restructuring Malawi’s economic planning to align with global economic shifts, particularly in technology, green energy, and digital trade.

He laments the current state of Malawi’s economy, citing high inflation, weakening currency, and poor industrial output as indicators that bold reforms are necessary.

The UDF leader calls for a new social contract between government, private sector, and citizens, based on transparency, accountability, and shared responsibility for growth.

He expresses confidence that the Business First strategy can be a game-changer for Malawi if implemented with political will and the active participation of all sectors.

Throughout his address, Muluzi maintains a tone of optimism, appealing to Malawians to rise above political divisions and focus on rebuilding the country’s economic foundation.

He pledges that under his leadership, economic growth will no longer be an abstract promise, but a measurable goal pursued with urgency and purpose.

The press briefing is ongoing, and updates will continue to follow as Atupele Muluzi elaborates on the policy details and responds to questions from the press and stakeholders.

Stay tuned for more comprehensive coverage.

CCAP Nkhoma Synod summons minister over unauthorized trip to visit Mutharika

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By Shaffie A Mtambo

The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Nkhoma Synod has summoned Reverend Tseka Chizinga to appear before the church trustees for a hearing scheduled for May 5, 2025.

According to a letter seen by 247 Malawi News and signed by Vasco Kachipapa, CCAP Nkhoma Synod General Secretary, Chizinga is accused of organizing a trip for some Nkhoma Synod clergies to visit former President Peter Mutharika at his Page House in Mangochi without the approval of the synod leadership.



Reverend Chizinga confirmed receiving the letter but stated that he will only attend the hearing if he can secure transportation.

The Nkhoma Synod’s General Secretary, Vasco Kachipapa, declined to comment on the matter, citing that it is an administrative issue that cannot be discussed publicly.

This development raises questions about the relationship between the CCAP Nkhoma Synod and its ministers, as well as the church’s stance on political engagements.

The hearing is set to take place on May 5, 2025, and will determine the next steps in the matter.

Police commissioner highlights distrust in high-density areas

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By Jones Gadama

Commissioner of Police for the South East region, Dr. Mlowoka Noel Kayira, has revealed that people living in high-density areas have little trust in the police compared to those residing in affluent areas. Dr. Kayira made this observation in an interview with Zodiak Online after being awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Administration during the University of Malawi (UNIMA) graduation ceremony in Zomba.

According to Dr. Kayira, the public distrust stems from the police’s tendency to prioritize services for wealthy individuals while neglecting the poor. He noted that the police tend to respond more quickly to calls from affluent areas than to those from high-density areas, resulting in dissatisfaction with police work among residents in these areas.



Dr. Kayira’s observation is based on his PhD research, which focused on issues of community policing.

His study likely highlighted the importance of building trust between the police and the community, particularly in high-density areas where policing needs are often more pressing.

The police commissioner’s call for a change in mindset, behavior, and attitude among police officers and community police groups is a crucial step towards restoring public trust.

By acknowledging the existing disparities in police services, Dr. Kayira is paving the way for reforms that can help bridge the gap between the police and the community.

Dr. Kayira’s research and observations underscore the need for community policing strategies that prioritize the needs of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status.

By adopting a more inclusive and responsive approach to policing, the Malawi Police Service can work towards building trust and confidence among the public, particularly in high-density areas.

The implications of Dr. Kayira’s findings are significant, as they highlight the need for police reform and community engagement. By addressing the root causes of public distrust, the police can improve their relationships with the community and provide more effective services to all citizens.

Dr. Mlowoka Noel Kayira’s observation on the distrust of police in high-density areas is a call to action for the Malawi Police Service.

His research and recommendations provide a valuable framework for reform and community engagement, which can help restore public trust and improve policing services in the country.

As the police service moves forward, it is essential that they prioritize the needs of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status, and work towards building a more inclusive and responsive policing system.

Government launches construction of backyard road in Bwalo la Njobvu, Area 2: A long-awaited development for Lilongwe residents

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By Burnett Munthali

The Malawi Government has commenced construction work on a long-neglected backyard road located in Bwalo la Njobvu, Area 2, Lilongwe.

The road, which runs behind the line of shops in this bustling part of the city, has for years remained in a deplorable condition, posing challenges to both motorists and pedestrians.

For decades, residents and business owners operating in the area have decried the poor state of the road, which worsens especially during the rainy season due to flooding, potholes, and muddy terrain.

Several attempts to draw the attention of authorities to the deteriorating infrastructure yielded minimal results, leading to widespread frustration and concerns over accessibility and hygiene.

Now, with construction equipment deployed and groundwork visibly underway, a sense of cautious optimism is spreading among the local population.



Shop owners, who have long struggled with reduced customer traffic due to the road’s impassability, have expressed hope that the development will rejuvenate economic activity in the area.

Local vendors and commuters, who rely on the road daily for their movements, see this initiative as a step toward improving their quality of life and restoring dignity to a community often overlooked in city development plans.

Community leaders in Bwalo la Njobvu have applauded the government’s decision, describing it as timely and reflective of growing responsiveness to grassroots concerns.

They noted that the development also aligns with broader efforts to modernize urban infrastructure in Lilongwe and improve connectivity within the city’s high-density zones.

While the specific timeline for completion has not yet been officially disclosed, early signs of organized work and visible progress suggest that authorities are committed to ensuring efficient execution.

Residents are being urged to cooperate with contractors by respecting barricades and adjusting their movements to facilitate smooth operations during the construction period.

The project, though small in scale compared to major highway undertakings, holds symbolic importance as it represents the government’s recognition of the need to invest in overlooked urban spaces.

Questions remain, however, about whether such interventions will be replicated in other underdeveloped corners of the capital, or if this will be a one-off exercise.

As construction continues, the people of Bwalo la Njobvu remain watchful, hopeful that this long-awaited road project will finally bring the transformation they have yearned for.

In the end, the success of this initiative may serve as a test case for how well government responds to the needs of urban dwellers living beyond the spotlight of major infrastructure headlines.

Bishop elect Nyirenda poised to drive development in Mzuzu diocese

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By Jones Gadama

Bishop Elect Yohane Nyirenda has expressed his commitment to advancing development initiatives in key areas such as education, health, justice, and peace, while fostering spiritual growth among the faithful in the Mzuzu Diocese. Bishop Nyirenda’s appointment by the Vatican on April 1, 2025, marks a new chapter for the diocese, as he takes over from Bishop John Ryan, who retired upon request.

In an interview, Bishop Nyirenda acknowledged the weight of his new role, describing his initial reaction as a mixture of fear and joy. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, he remains resolute in his vision to work together with various stakeholders to advance the diocese’s mission and activities.

Bishop Nyirenda’s vision for the Mzuzu Diocese is centered on promoting holistic development, which encompasses not only spiritual growth but also social and economic progress. He recognizes the importance of collaboration and I think &5&k partnership  partnership in achieving this vision, and he is eager to engage with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities.

Bishop Elect Yohane Nyirenda



The Mzuzu Diocese plays a significant role in the lives of many people in the region, and Bishop Nyirenda’s leadership is expected to have a positive impact on the community.

His commitment to advancing development initiatives in key areas such as education, health, justice, and peace will likely contribute to improving the quality of life for many people in the diocese.

Bishop Nyirenda’s installation ceremony is scheduled to take place this Saturday in Mzuzu, marking an important milestone in his new role.

As he assumes his duties as the new bishop of the Mzuzu Diocese, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to serving the faithful.

The faithful in the Mzuzu Diocese are eagerly awaiting Bishop Nyirenda’s installation, looking forward to his leadership and vision for the diocese.

His appointment is seen as an opportunity for renewal and growth, and many are hopeful that his tenure will be marked by significant progress in various areas.

Bishop Elect Yohane Nyirenda’s commitment to advancing development initiatives in the Mzuzu Diocese is a promising development for the community.

His vision for holistic development, coupled with his willingness to collaborate with various stakeholders, sets the stage for a bright future for the diocese.

As he begins his new role, Bishop Nyirenda has the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of many people in the region.