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Author Lawrence Develious Kaunda set to lauch 3 new books

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By Chisomo Phiri

A 30-year-old Lawrence Develious Kaunda, from Dedza, is set to lauch his three new books on November 30, 2024, at Golden Peacock Hotel in Blantyre.

In an interview with our journalist Chisomo Phiri, Kaunda said the books are titled “Laudate Deus English Grammar”, “Business Novel (Ferrari or Budget Car)” and “Impi Biyeni” poetry book.

Lawrence Develious Kaunda



He explained that the motivation for writing the books was to address various gaps in the education system and economy.

Kaunda stated that his English Grammar book aims to improve communication skills, while his Business Novel seeks to empower youths and civil servants with knowledge in business.

He said the “Impi Biyeni” poetry book is a tribute to the late Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima and Sir Lucius Banda, and aims to inspire hope and mindset change.

When asked about the writing industry in Malawi, the young author noted that many writers lack skills and finances to publish their work.

He emphasized the importance of reading and supporting local authors, and called on the government to invest in the writing industry.

Kaunda said his new books will be available directly from him and in bookshops across the country.

The young author, who graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the Catholic University of Malawi(CUNIMA) in 2021, started writing in 2019 as a way to cope with depression and anxiety.

He has since written several poems and books, with many more in the pipeline.

He is passionate about writing and empowering others through his work.

Mtalimanja clarifies results transmission process for 2025 general elections

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By Chisomo Phiri

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja says the commission will use both physical and electronic means to transmit results from the constituency and district tally centers to the national tally center for the September 2025 General Elections.

Mtalimanja clarified this to our journalist Chisomo Phiri in response to concerns raised by political party representatives about the use of Election Management Devices(EMD) for results management.

Mtalimanja



She emphasized that the MEC is yet to develop a module for results management using the devices and that stakeholders will be consulted once it is developed.

She said the move is part of the MEC’s efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

Said Mtalimanja: “I do not have the context under which the comments were made by the opposition parties but our policy documents including the operational plan is clear that the transmission will be both physical and electronic.”

MEC has already launched its comprehensive voter education campaign and unveiled its theme song, “Voti Yanu,” composed by Afrobeat artist Piksy.

DPP Secretary General  Mukhito makes opening remarks at NGC training

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By Burnett Munthali

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Secretary General, Peter Mukhito, today delivered the opening remarks at the party’s National Governing Council (NGC) training session, currently underway at Lotus Hotel in Blantyre.

In his address, Mukhito welcomed all attendees, acknowledging the significance of the training for the party’s leadership as it prepares for the upcoming 2025 general elections. He emphasized that the NGC members are the backbone of the party, and their commitment to the party’s success is critical as they strategize for the future.

Mukhito

Mukhito encouraged the party’s leadership to embrace the spirit of unity and focus on the collective goal of reclaiming power in the next elections. He urged the newly elected leaders to take full responsibility for their roles and to approach their duties with integrity and selflessness, ensuring that they put the interests of the party and the people of Malawi first.

“The future of this party lies in your hands,” Mukhito stated. “This training is not just about preparing for the elections; it’s about preparing to serve the people of Malawi with honor and dedication.”

Mukhito further urged the members to be strategic in their engagement with the electorate, noting that effective communication and outreach are essential in building trust and support at all levels. He emphasized that the DPP must be ready to offer viable solutions to the country’s challenges, rather than merely criticizing the current government.

“As a party, we must be proactive in presenting our vision for a better Malawi, and that vision must resonate with the needs of the people,” Mukhito added.

The DPP Secretary General also acknowledged the challenges the party has faced in recent years, but expressed confidence that with proper training, unity, and determination, the party would regain its footing and emerge stronger for the next electoral battle.

“This is the beginning of a new chapter for the DPP,” Mukhito concluded. “Together, we will work hard to ensure that our party is not only prepared for the next election but is also poised to lead Malawi into a prosperous future.”

The training session, which includes various workshops and presentations, is set to continue throughout the day, with DPP leadership members being equipped with the necessary tools to mobilize support, strengthen party structures, and chart the course for electoral success in 2025.

Mukhito’s remarks highlighted the party’s commitment to reform, renewal, and readiness, setting the stage for a focused and strategic approach in the lead-up to next year’s elections.

HRCC calls for peaceful elections

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By Chisomo Phiri

The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) has expressed concern over remarks made by some political party and Civil Society Organization (CSO) leaders regarding the Malawi Electoral Commission’s (MEC) management of voter registration ahead of next year’s general elections.

Some leaders have warned that Malawi could plunge into war next year if the MEC proceeds with alleged election rigging plans.

Robert Mkwezalamba

Meanwhile in a statement,the HRCC Board Chairperson, Robert Mkwezalamba, has urged these leaders to refrain from making statements that raise unnecessary tension and seek to incite violence and discontent among Malawians.

“MEC should continue to transparently share all matters concerning the elections to ensure the public and genuine stakeholders have access to accurate information, enabling them to make informed choices in the forthcoming polls,” says Mkwezalamba.

The opposition political party leaders and other CSOs are demanding that MEC disengage from the Election Management Devices (EMD) supplied by Smartmatic and calling for the resignation of the commission’s Chairperson and Chief Elections Officer, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja and Andrew Mpesi, respectively.

Alcohol consumption among youth,females on the rise in Africa

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By Chisomo Phiri


Research conducted by the University of Malawi (UNIMA) and  the University of Stirling in Scotland has uncovered an increase in alcohol consumption by youth and females across Africa.

Presenting the research findings titled “Regulating alcohol packaging and supply to protect health in sub-Saharan Africa: evidence from policy systems in Malawi and Uganda (RAPSSA)” on Thursday in Lilongwe, lead researcher Dr. Isabelle Uny shed light on the increased alcohol consumption rates.

“The alcohol industry in Africa is using tactics to promote products like beer in larger containers, fruit-flavored beverages to attract this demographic. Alcohol consumption is a leading risk factor for death in this region,” she stated.



In his presentation on the National Alcohol Policy, Assistant Deputy Director of the Ministry of Health Michael Udedi highlighted the need to enforce restrictions on the promotion, sponsorship, advertising, and importation of alcohol in the country through the revision of the National Alcohol Policy.

“The policy intends to curb harmful consumption of alcohol; therefore, there is a need for the development of systems that monitor the marketing of alcoholic products in the country.”he said.

Chairperson of the parliament health committee Dr. Mathews Ngwale encouraged Civil Society Organizations(CSOs) and other stakeholders to bring the issue into focus to be discussed in Parliament.

“We as parliamentarians do not initiate laws or issues ourselves as we are not lawmakers but rather mere representatives of the people from our societies; we therefore appeal to all stakeholders, be they individuals or organizations, to bring their findings so we amend the policy if there is a need,” said Ngwale.

The research was presented in the presence of stakeholders from the Southern Africa alcohol policy alliance, the Malawi Chapter, Danish church aid, Parliamentarians, ministries of health and homeland security, and the trade industry.