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Police Arrest Two, Hunt for Two Others Over ESCOM Vandalism

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By Shaffie A Mtambo

A crackdown on vandalism and theft of electricalm conductors has led to the arrest of two men in Chikwawa, with a manhuntander underway for two others. Lyford Godoyi and Alex Smart, both from Sub Traditional Authority Chiputula, were taken into and custody on January 20, 2025, after a tip-off revealed they had stolen 200 meters of electrical conductors valued at K800,000, belonging to the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM).

According to Dickson Matemba, the station’s public relations officer, the arrests demonstrate the authorities’ commitment to protecting ESCOM property. “We are warning people in the district to desist tampering with ESCOM property since it is an offence punishable by the law,” Matemba emphasized.



The suspects will soon appear before the court to answer to the charges leveled against them. This’ll development comes as a reminder of the consequences of vandalism and theft of electrical conductors, which can lead to serious penalties, includingity imprisonment. In similar cases, individuals have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 30 months to five years.

The authorities’ efforts to combat vandalism and theft of electrical conductors are crucial in ensuring the reliability and safety of the power supply. As the investigation continues, the police are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of the two fugitives to come forward and assist in bringing them to justice.

Khombe pushes for unfreezing of ADMARC accounts

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By Chisomo Phiri

Chairperson for the Citizen for Justice and Equity Agape Khombe has called on the Attorney General’s office to speed up the process of unfreezing Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (ADMARC)’s bank accounts.

This comes after a court decision froze ADMARC’s accounts and authorized the seizure of its assets due to a K25 billion compensation award to 3,282 employees who were retrenched in January 2023.

Agape Khombe

In an interview with 247 Malawi News, Khombe, expressed concerns about the potential impact on the public, particularly in regards to ADMARC’s ability to deliver maize, which could exacerbate the ongoing hunger crisis.

He emphasized the need for swift action to address the situation.

The officials from the Attorney General’s office are yet to comment on the matter.

Dr. Kabwila Commends NCHE’s Efforts in Advancing Higher Education in Malawi

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By Elywin Chighali Mhango

In her inaugural familiarization tour as Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Jessie Kabwila visited the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) headquarters in Lilongwe on Tuesday, where she praised the institution’s critical role in enhancing the quality of higher education in Malawi.

During her visit, Dr. Kabwila toured the NCHE offices and convened with the Council and senior management team in the boardroom. She underscored NCHE’s importance to the higher education sector, describing it as the “spinal cord” that ensures quality—which is essential for achieving the nation’s Malawi 2063 Vision.

“The Ministry acknowledges NCHE as a vital partner. Without adequate investment in NCHE, we risk compromising quality and efficiency in higher education,” Dr. Kabwila stated.

Kabwila

Following a comprehensive presentation from NCHE, the Minister expressed her satisfaction with the dedication exhibited by the NCHE council and staff, which has led to significant progress in the institution.

Dr. Kabwila emphasized that President Lazarus Chakwera is firmly committed to fostering a higher education system that ensures graduates possess credentials that reflect their skills and knowledge. “Malawi’s academic qualifications should stand the test of time, and together, let us establish a higher education legacy,” she asserted, pledging her unwavering support for the sector.

Earlier in the meeting, NCHE Board Chair Professor Eston Sambo expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s support, which he deemed essential for the institution’s achievements. He highlighted recent milestones, including the full digitalization of NCHE’s processes, which has enhanced efficiency and the harmonization of public university selection, notably including Domasi and Nalikule College of Education this year.

Professor Sambo reaffirmed NCHE’s commitment to developing a resilient and self-sustaining higher education system in Malawi.

Dr. Kabwila was accompanied by key officials, including Secretary for Education Associate Professor Mangani Chilala Katundu and Director of Higher Education Dr. Levis Eneya, among other senior staff members.

Rumphi teacher acquitted of indecent assault charge after appeal

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By Shaffie A Mtambo

In a dramatic turn of events, the High Court in Mzuzu has quashed the conviction and set aside the sentence of Wonderson Shaba, a teacher from Rumphi.

Shaba was convicted by the First Grade Magistrate at Rumphi in July 2024 for allegedly committing indecent assault, contrary to Section 137 (1) of the Penal Code.

The lower court had sentenced Shaba to two and a half years imprisonment with hard labor.

Shaba, acquitted



However, Shaba appealed the conviction and sentence, seeking the services of the Legal Aid Bureau.

Senior Legal Aid Advocate Kelvin Nyasulu and Legal Aid Officer Lovemore Ngwira took up his case, arguing that the First Grade Magistrate had erred in law by convicting Shaba against the evidence presented.

The alleged victim, who was 18 at the time of the incident, had vehemently denied being indecently assaulted by Shaba. Moreover, she had not reported the incident to the police.

Counsel Nyasulu argued that the prosecution had failed to prove crucial elements of the offense, including the presence of a complainant and perpetrator, and the prohibited act itself.

The State did not object to the grounds of appeal, and Justice Kishindo ultimately quashed the conviction and set aside the sentence, acquitting Shaba of the charges.

This decision paves the way for Shaba’s return to his job as a Deputy Head Teacher at Mzungutwa Primary School in Rumphi district, which he had lost following his conviction.

Shaba and his family members were overwhelmed with joy upon hearing the Court’s pronouncement.

The acquittal marks a significant victory for Shaba, who had maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal.

Airtel Malawi Appoints Seasoned Executive Aashish Dutt as New Managing Director

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By Shaffie A Mtambo


Airtel Malawi has announced the appointment of Aashish Dutt as its new Managing Director, effective immediately. Dutt takes over from Abdul Khayyum Shaik, who held the position in an acting capacity. With over 28 years of experience in the telecommunications sector, Dutt brings a wealth of expertise to his new role.

Dutt’s impressive career trajectory includes 14 years in executive management. Notably, he served as Sales and Distribution Director for Airtel Malawi in 2017, before being promoted to Chief Commercial Officer in 2021. Prior to his current appointment, Dutt held the position of Chief Commercial Officer for Airtel Kenya, and also acted as Chief Commercial Officer for Airtel Uganda, working across both markets.

Aashish Dutt



Dutt’s extensive experience and proven track record in the telecommunications industry make him an ideal candidate to lead Airtel Malawi. His appointment is expected to drive growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction, as the company continues to expand its services and offerings in Malawi.

Under Dutt’s leadership, Airtel Malawi is poised to consolidate its position as a leading telecommunications provider in the country. His expertise and vision will be instrumental in shaping the company’s strategy and direction, ensuring that Airtel Malawi remains at the forefront of the telecommunications industry in Malawi.