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WFP,Malawi partner to address el niño-induced drought crisis

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By Chisomo Phiri

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Government of Malawi on Friday signed an agreement to import 48,000 metric tons of maize, valued at US$ 35 million and funded by the World Bank Group, to help food-insecure communities affected by the El Niño-induced drought.

Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lilongwe, WFP Regional Director for Southern Africa Eric Perdison reaffirmed their commitment to helping the country alleviate the hunger crisis.

“This collaboration shows the strength of partnerships in tackling the challenges caused by climate-related crises,” he said.

World Bank Country Manager for Malawi, Firas Raad, said the bank mobilized US$ 50 million earlier this year to help Malawi address the impact of the recent El Niño-induced drought in the country.

“We hope this financing will provide greater food security to vulnerable households, and we are proud of our close collaboration with WFP,” Raad said.

Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA),Charles Kalemba noted that the gesture reflects the strong commitment of the Government and its partners to alleviating hunger and improving food security in the country.

“This is a significant step in complementing Malawi Government’s efforts in provision of relief assistance to food-insecure households across the country,” said Kalemba.

Malawi is currently facing acute food insecurity challenges, with 5.7 million people rendered food insecure following the El Niño-induced drought, which negatively affected 44% of crops.

Rumphi Police Crack Down on Theft: Motorcycle and Fertilizer Recovered

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By Shaffie A Mtambo

A swift investigation by Rumphi Police has led to the arrest of 22-year-old Henry Gondwe, accused of stealing a motorcycle and a bag of fertilizer worth K1,870,000.00. The incident occurred on January 23, 2025, at Chilombo village, where the owner had parked her motorcycle loaded with four bags of fertilizer outside her house.

According to Rumphi Police Station Spokesperson Sub Inspector Noel Kamchenga, the victim realized her motorcycle and one bag of Super D fertilizer were stolen after taking supper. The police sprang into action, visiting the scene and launching an investigation that ultimately led to the recovery of the stolen items and the arrest of the suspect.



The police have confirmed that the stolen motorcycle and fertilizer have been recovered and are currently in their custody. The suspect, Henry Gondwe, is being held at Rumphi Police Station pending further investigation and prosecution.

This successful operation demonstrates the Rumphi Police’s commitment to combating crime and protecting the community. The police have shown that they will not tolerate theft and will work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.

The community has welcomed the police’s swift action, praising their efforts in recovering the stolen items and apprehending the suspect. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community-police collaboration in preventing and combating crime.

As the investigation continues, the police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in the prosecution of the suspect. The Rumphi Police have assured the community that they will continue to work diligently to ensure that justice is served.

The suspect hail from Koyo Village, Traditional Authority Chisovya in Rumphi District.

Cement Price Hike Sparks Call to Action in Malawi’s Construction Industry

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By Shaffie A Mtambo

The recent surge in cement prices has sent shockwaves through Malawi’s construction industry, prompting the National Construction Industry Council of Malawi (NCIC) to urge stakeholders to take immediate action. With some cement manufacturers hiking prices to a minimum of K23,800 and K29,800, and retailers selling at even higher rates, the NCIC is warning of potential negative impacts on ongoing projects.

Lyford Gedion, NCIC’s corporate affairs officer, emphasized that significant changes in cement prices can compromise project quality unless the government intervenes with subsidies. Gedion called on stakeholders, including the government, contractors, and consultants, to discuss contractual issues and find solutions to mitigate the effects of the price hike.


Meanwhile, Transport and Public Works minister Jacob Hara has sought to allay concerns, assuring that most ongoing contracts have factored in the price increase and that quality standards will remain intact.

The construction industry is a critical sector in Malawi’s economy, and any disruptions can have far-reaching consequences. The NCIC’s call to action highlights the need for urgent dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to find a solution to the cement price crisis.

As the industry navigates this challenge, it remains to be seen how the government and stakeholders will respond to the NCIC’s call to action. One thing is certain, however the fate of Malawi’s construction industry hangs in the balance.

Malawi defence force suffers losses in DRC clashes

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By Twink Jones Gadama

In a somber turn of events, three Malawi Defence Force (MDF) soldiers have lost their lives in fierce battles with M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to MDF spokesperson, Major Emmanuel Calvin Mlelemba, the soldiers “fell in the line of duty during an encounter with the M23 rebel group operating in Eastern DRC”.

The deceased soldiers were part of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) mission in the DRC, aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region. While official details are scarce, inside sources have revealed that two soldiers were killed in action yesterday in Sake, a town in Goma City, North Kivu, eastern DRC, while the third soldier succumbed to injuries sustained last week.



The M23 rebels have been intensifying their assaults in the DRC, seizing control of more territory than ever since the start of the year. This escalation has raised concerns about the deteriorating security situation in the region. Malawi’s involvement in the combat peacekeeping mission in the DRC is aimed at supporting the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) in stabilizing the region.

The loss of life is a sobering reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by soldiers serving in peacekeeping missions. The MDF has been participating in the SADC mission in the DRC since 2013, with the primary objective of neutralizing armed groups and supporting the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) process.

As the situation in the DRC continues to unfold, the international community remains committed to supporting efforts to restore peace and stability in the region. The African Union, the European Union, and the United Nations have all condemned the recent violence and called for restraint.

In Malawi, the news of the soldiers’ deaths has sent shockwaves across the nation. President Lazarus Chakwera has issued a statement expressing his condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers and reaffirming the country’s commitment to regional peace and security.

As the families of the fallen soldiers mourn their loved ones, the nation comes together to honor their sacrifice. The MDF has promised to provide further details on the incident in due course.

In the meantime, the international community remains vigilant, calling for calm and restraint in the face of escalating violence. The people of Malawi and the DRC can only hope that the sacrifices made by these brave soldiers will not be in vain, and that peace will soon be restored to the region.

Chimwemwe Peggy Ngwira publishes book

By Chisomo Phiri

Ireland-based Malawian author Chimwemwe Peggy Ngwira has published her first book, titled ‘Unlock the Power of Positive Energy’.

The motivational masterpiece, officially released in December 2024, explores pivotal topics such as self-discovery, gratitude, and the significance of positive relationships.

Speaking in an interview with 247 Malawi News, Ngwira shared the inspiration behind her book.



“The book is based on my personal experiences and lessons learned over five years of self-discovery.

“I aim to share my findings with others, helping them navigate life’s challenges,” she said.

When questioned about the writing industry in Malawi, Ngwira expressed optimism, saying:”Malawi boasts an array of talented writers who require support to publish their work and become renowned authors.”

She said ‘Unlock the Power of Positive Energy’ is available on Amazon and in hardcopy at select bookstores in Malawi and Ireland.

Ngwira encouraged readers to support her work by purchasing a copy, describing the book as “a must-read”.

Ngwira started writing in 2019.

As a writer, she believes that writers have important roles in society, acting as a bridge in spreading important messages and fostering practical criticism that builds.

Apart from being a writer, Ngwira is also an entrepreneur, a youth promoter, and a mother of two young men and eight God-given children.

She is passionate about promoting the wellbeing of elderly people and has a ministry in Mbayani, Blantyre that supports elders.

Ngwira has also been involved in various businesses in Malawi before moving to Ireland.