The Nkhotakota District Council has announced a significant 75% increase in its 2025/2026 budget, totaling MK35.1 billion. This substantial boost is primarily driven by a surge in developmental budgets, as stated by Council Chairperson Charles Chimzukuzuku.
The budget comprises MK13.6 billion for government payments emoluments, MK1.9 billion for other recurrent transactions, and MK19 billion for development projects. The increase in developmental budgets is a deliberate effort to drive growth and development in the district.
The council has allocated substantial funds for critical infrastructure projects, including the completion of Mwalawatongole Health Centre, which has been allocated K164 million. Additionally, K205 million has been set aside for the construction of Sani Secondary School, while K360 million will go towards the construction of Msenjere Extension Planning Area.
This ambitious budget demonstrates the council’s commitment to improving the lives of its residents. By prioritizing key infrastructure projects and increasing investment in developmental initiatives, the council aims to create a brighter future for Nkhotakota.
Alick Lungu’s future at FCB Nyasa Big Bullets hangs in the balance as the defender’s request to leave the club for free has been rejected. According to sources, Lungu has been evasive about committing his future to the People’s Team, despite the club’s efforts to negotiate a new contract.
Lungu’s manager, Jonathan Mhango, confirmed that the player has been undecided and elusive about his future, even turning down a lucrative offer from Zimbabwe. “Alick lately advised me not to open any contract negotiations with Bullets, saying he is done with the team,” Mhango said.
Lungu
Bullets’ interim CEO, Albert Chigoga, confirmed that the club has blocked Lungu’s request to leave for free, citing the player’s contractual obligations. “It is very true. Alick has been refusing to sign a new contract since last year. We would like him to do what his contract says about his decision,” Chigoga said.
Lungu’s contract is set to expire in July this year, and the club is adamant that he must either see out his contract or activate his release clause. The defender’s injury woes have been a significant concern, with Bullets reportedly spending K15 million on his hospital bills.
As the standoff continues, Lungu’s future at Bullets remains uncertain. With the club standing firm on their contractual demands, it remains to be seen whether Lungu will relent and sign a new contract or explore other options.
Apostle Clifford Kawinga, Founder and President of The Salvation for All Ministries International church, has donated 75 iron sheets to aid in the rehabilitation of an administration block at Mwazisi Community Day Secondary School in Rumphi. The school’s administration block was severely damaged by a hailstorm last December.
Apostle Kawinga emphasized the importance of the church’s role in supporting education, stating, “No church or country can thrive without education.” He also encouraged communities to take an active part in development work, rather than relying solely on well-wishers.
Kawonga making a donation
The donation was met with gratitude from the school’s administration, with Headteacher Lyton Kamanga commending Apostle Kawinga for his timely contribution. The Headboy, Justice Kachali, highlighted the challenges faced by students due to the damaged administration block, which has forced the library to be used as a temporary administration block.
Apostle Kawinga’s donation serves as a testament to the church’s commitment to supporting education and community development. The rehabilitation of the administration block will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the students and staff at Mwazisi Community Day Secondary School.
In a dramatic turn of events, Lion Cage Security Services, a security company based in Mzuzu, has locked out the Northern Region Water Board (NRWB) over an unpaid debt of K98 million.
According to a senior official at Lion Cage Security Services, the company had been providing security services to the NRWB for several years, but the board had failed to pay for the services rendered.
“We have been patient with the NRWB for a long time, but they have consistently failed to pay us for our services,” said the official. “We have tried to engage them in discussions, but they have not been responsive. As a result, we have been left with no choice but to lock them out until they pay their debt.”
The lockout, which began early yesterday morning, has left the NRWB’s offices in Mzuzu inaccessible to staff and customers. The company’s security guards have been stationed at the entrance of the building, preventing anyone from entering or leaving the premises.
The NRWB has been struggling with financial difficulties in recent years, and the lockout by Lion Cage Security Services is just the latest in a series of challenges facing the board.
In a statement, the NRWB acknowledged the debt owed to Lion Cage Security Services and apologized for any inconvenience caused by the lockout.
“We are aware of the debt owed to Lion Cage Security Services and are working to resolve the issue as soon as possible,” said the statement. “We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the lockout and appreciate the patience and understanding of our customers and stakeholders.”
The lockout by Lion Cage Security Services has raised concerns about the financial management of the NRWB and the impact of the debt on the company’s operations.
“This is a clear indication of the financial mismanagement of the NRWB,” said a local resident. “How can a company that is responsible for providing water services to the people of Mzuzu fail to pay its debts? It’s unacceptable and something needs to be done about it.”
The lockout is expected to continue until the NRWB pays its debt to Lion Cage Security Services. In the meantime, customers of the NRWB are advised to seek alternative arrangements for accessing water services.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the NRWB will resolve the issue and restore normal operations. One thing is certain, however: the lockout by Lion Cage Security Services has brought attention to the financial challenges facing the NRWB and the need for urgent action to address them.
President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has ordered the withdrawal of all Rwandan military forces from Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border towns, effective immediately.
The troops will regroup in the capital Kigali, according to a letter from the Rwandan Prime Minister. The stated reason for the withdrawal is to protect Kigali and critical infrastructure.
However, sources within the South African government suggest that the real reason for the retreat is to avoid a full-scale military confrontation with South Africa. Tensions between Rwanda and South Africa have been escalating since the death of 13 South African soldiers in the region.
Kagame
South African insiders claim that the country was prepared to deploy its full military might, including long-range ballistic missiles, Navy Seals, and Commando Units, in retaliation for the loss of its soldiers. This alleged threat has sparked concerns about the potential for a large-scale conflict in the region.
The situation is complex, with multiple actors involved. The United Nations Secretary-General has called for the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from the DRC, citing concerns about the escalating violence.
