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Mindset change: Taking charge of your own success

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By Burnett Munthali

In a world where opportunities often seem scarce, one story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of initiative and self-determination. It’s the story of a young woman named Tamala, whose journey reflects a critical lesson: don’t wait for the government—or anyone else—to make your life successful.

Her father, a firm believer in hard work and seizing opportunities, has always told her that South Africa is a land where success is possible for those who actively pursue it. He speaks from experience, having charted his own path in similar circumstances.



Years ago, Tamala’s father found himself in South Africa, searching for opportunities to better his life. Determined to acquire computer skills, he approached a company with a simple offer: he would work for free if they allowed him to learn. The company agreed, giving him access to their computer training program.

In exchange, he volunteered to help in their computer repair workshop during his free time. His dedication did not go unnoticed. Upon completing the course, the company offered him a part-time job, setting him on a path of growth and success.

This experience became the cornerstone of the advice he gave his daughter: Life rewards those who take bold steps and create their own opportunities.

When Tamala traveled to South Africa, her father reminded her that courage and initiative would be her greatest assets. On Tuesday, she took her first step.

After visiting Home Affairs to apply for her ID, she and her mother stopped by a shop to buy a nail makeup kit. In that moment, Tamala saw an opportunity and took a bold chance. She asked the shop manager if there were any job openings. Though she wasn’t sure what to expect, she left her contact details with the manager.

To her surprise, she received a call the very next day. The shop offered her a position, and today, Tamala is on her way to start her first job in South Africa.

Tamala’s story is a testament to the importance of a proactive mindset. It underscores a crucial truth: waiting for government intervention, parental support, or a lucky break is not a sustainable path to success. True progress begins when individuals take responsibility for their own lives and actively seek opportunities.

Her father’s words echo loudly: Life is what you make of it. While external factors can play a role in shaping one’s journey, the ultimate driver of success is personal determination.

A Call to Action

Tamala’s experience is an inspiration for anyone feeling stuck or uncertain about the future. It is a reminder that success doesn’t always come to those who wait—it comes to those who act.

To the unemployed, the discouraged, and the dreamers: don’t wait for circumstances to change. Take the first step, however small it may seem. Ask for opportunities, learn new skills, and refuse to be paralyzed by fear or doubt.

Governments may set the stage, and others may offer support, but the main actor in your story is you. Like Tamala, choose courage over hesitation, and watch as the doors of opportunity open before you.

In the end, success is not handed out—it is earned. As Tamala’s father so wisely said, “Don’t expect someone else to make your life move forward. It’s always you who must take that step.”

Vice President Dr. Michael Usi urges youth to build a better future

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By Burnett Munthali

Vice President Dr. Michael Usi has called on Malawian youth to focus on activities that bring sustainable benefits for the future generation. Speaking on Sunday during a visit to Mbayani Market in Blantyre, Dr. Usi emphasized the importance of hard work, patriotism, and maintaining peace as critical elements for personal and national growth.

“Let us do things in regard to the future generation that is coming. Most of the youth here are not working, so let us do things that will benefit ourselves instead of just moving around in these streets,” he said. “There is a need to work hard to be productive citizens.”

Usi



Dr. Usi’s remarks resonated with many young people gathered at the market, as he urged them to redirect their energy toward productive ventures. He highlighted the need for the youth to develop skills, embrace entrepreneurship, and take active roles in building Malawi’s economy.

Addressing social behavior, Dr. Usi also warned against the use of foul language, particularly in public spaces. He stressed that such actions go against Malawian cultural values and could contribute to social unrest, potentially harming economic activities and damaging public property.

“Using foul language is not within our culture. Such acts have the potential of fueling violence, which disrupts economic activities and destroys property. Let us be conscious and desist from such behavior,” Dr. Usi advised.

The Vice President further encouraged the youth to uphold peace and unity as the bedrock for national development. His visit to Mbayani Market underscored the government’s commitment to empowering young people and addressing the socio-economic challenges they face.

For many of the attendees, Dr. Usi’s message was a call to action, inspiring them to take charge of their future while contributing to a prosperous and peaceful Malawi.

Vice President Michael Usi engages with traders at Mbayani Market

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By Burnett Munthali

Blantyre’s bustling Mbayani Market became the focal point of national attention on Sunday, 24th November 2024, as Vice President Dr. Michael Usi made a surprise visit to interact with traders and residents. The visit, characterized by heartfelt exchanges and candid discussions, highlighted the government’s commitment to grassroots engagement and understanding the challenges faced by ordinary Malawians.

Dr. Usi, renowned for his approachable demeanor, walked through the market’s crowded aisles, exchanging warm greetings with traders and customers alike. He listened attentively as market vendors detailed the hurdles they face, including poor infrastructure, inadequate sanitation facilities, and rising costs of goods.

Michael Usi



One vendor, Joyce Chikondi, expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s visit, saying, “It’s rare for leaders to come down to our level and see the reality of our struggles. We hope this visit will bring tangible solutions.”

In his remarks, Dr. Usi assured the traders that their concerns would be addressed, emphasizing the government’s focus on improving small-scale businesses and market conditions.

“Mbayani Market is not just a place of trade; it’s a hub of livelihoods. We are committed to creating an environment where your businesses can thrive,” he said.

Dr. Usi also highlighted ongoing plans to improve market infrastructure, including the provision of proper drainage systems and enhanced security to safeguard traders’ goods. He called on the traders to remain resilient and assured them that the government would prioritize policies that empower small and medium enterprises.

The Vice President’s visit was also an opportunity for him to encourage unity and cooperation among market stakeholders.

As Dr. Usi departed amidst cheers and applause, many traders expressed hope that the Vice President’s engagement would translate into actionable changes to uplift Mbayani Market and its hardworking vendors.

The visit underscores Dr. Usi’s hands-on leadership style and commitment to addressing the needs of Malawians at the grassroots level.

Evangelical Association of Malawi urges Chakwera to condemn political violence

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By Burnett Munthali

The Evangelical Association of Malawi (EAM) has called on President Lazarus Chakwera and other political leaders to openly denounce the rising tide of political violence in the country.

In a statement released yesterday, the EAM expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of politically motivated attacks, intimidation, and disruption of opposition activities, warning that such acts threaten Malawi’s democracy and social harmony.



“As church leaders, we believe that silence from our political leaders, including the President, could be interpreted as complicity. We urge the leadership of this nation to take a firm stand against political violence and promote a culture of peace and tolerance,” read part of the statement.

EAM highlighted specific incidents in which political violence has disrupted peaceful gatherings, noting that these actions not only infringe on constitutional rights but also create an environment of fear and instability.

The association appealed to leaders across all political divides to uphold the principles of dialogue and coexistence, which are essential for Malawi’s development.

“Malawi’s hard-earned democracy must not be derailed by acts of violence. It is the responsibility of our leaders to lead by example, fostering an atmosphere where differences in opinion are resolved through dialogue, not intimidation or force,” the statement added.

The EAM further urged law enforcement agencies to act impartially by bringing perpetrators of violence to justice, regardless of their political affiliations.

Political violence has become a recurring concern in Malawi, particularly in the run-up to elections. The Evangelical Association’s call comes at a time when civil society and religious organizations are increasingly advocating for peaceful political engagement and accountability from leaders.

As the nation anticipates President Chakwera’s response, Malawians continue to look to their leaders to champion unity and denounce violence as a means of addressing political differences.

MEC stands firm on voter registration deadline amid public concerns

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By Burnett Munthali

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has ruled out extending the voter registration period for the 2025 elections, insisting that the process has been successful despite mounting calls for more time. Various stakeholders, including political leaders and civil society groups, have raised concerns about disenfranchisement caused by technical and logistical challenges at registration centers.

MEC Communications Officer Richard Mveriwa has expressed frustration over the misrepresentation of his role in recent reports, particularly an article by Times 360 journalist Daniel Zimba. Speaking out on social media, Mveriwa declared, “We can do better than this. I have just said it here that my position is NOT mneneli. Ndinene bwanji kuti zimveke?” His remarks reflect both his dissatisfaction with ongoing public discourse and his commitment to clarifying MEC’s stance.



Addressing concerns about the registration process, Mveriwa affirmed that MEC is satisfied with the turnout during the second phase of voter registration. “As it stands, there are no plans to extend the registration period. The process has gone well, and we are confident with the results,” he stated.

Despite MEC’s assurances, several groups have highlighted issues that they believe warrant an extension. Reports from registration centers in Blantyre indicate that young voters faced challenges such as missing names on voter rolls and malfunctioning equipment, resulting in some being turned away.

Fredokiss Penjani Kalua, Youth Director for the UTM, voiced his frustration after visiting registration centers at Greencorner and Nancholi. “Young people are being denied the opportunity to register due to technicalities. This is unacceptable, and MEC should reconsider its decision to end the exercise so soon,” Kalua said.

MEC has emphasized that while isolated challenges occurred, these were addressed promptly to ensure the process continued smoothly. Mveriwa stated that extending the registration period would disrupt preparations for the next phases and the broader election timeline. He also reassured the public that the commission is committed to delivering a credible election.

Mveriwa’s firm stance has sparked mixed reactions. While some commend MEC for adhering to its schedule, others accuse the commission of dismissing legitimate concerns raised by affected voters. Social media discussions reflect growing dissatisfaction, with many arguing that MEC’s decision might disenfranchise first-time voters and others who faced barriers during registration.

MEC’s refusal to extend the voter registration period sends a clear message of confidence in its systems and processes. However, the commission must address lingering concerns to ensure public trust in its ability to deliver a fair and transparent election. A balanced approach that considers both logistical realities and the right to vote will be crucial in the months ahead.

As the election draws closer, the spotlight will remain on MEC to demonstrate that no eligible voter is left behind.