Chiefs from Zomba Malosa constituency have commended their member of parliament Grace Kwelepeta for taking them to visit Parliament building in Lilongwe on Thursday.
Senior group village headman Mtokolo made these remarks during the parliamentary tour.
Mtokolo said it is a very historical moment to come to Lilongwe and see their Member of parliament seating in the chamber representing them.
Zomba Malosa Chiefs at Parliament
In her sentiment, legislator of the constituency Kwelepeta said it is crucial to invite the traditional leaders to the parliament as the route towards representing an area as an MP is through the chiefs
Kwelepeta lamented that she believes the chiefs have learnt a lot about parliamentary activities during their visit.
According to Kwelepeta Zomba Malosa constituency has got 450 chiefs but over 300 chiefs have already visited the parliament
President Lazarus Chakwera has taken to his official Facebook page to share details of a high-level meeting with Hasan Alsuwaidi, the Minister of Investment and Group Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Holdings, as part of efforts to strengthen Malawi’s ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
A key highlight of the meeting was a discussion on forging sustainable agreements with UAE fuel companies to ensure a steady and reliable petroleum supply for Malawi. President Chakwera emphasized that addressing the country’s fuel supply challenges is critical to sustaining economic growth and mitigating disruptions to key sectors.
Chakwera with Hasan Alsuwaidi
In a bold move to bolster Malawi’s industrial capacity, the possibility of establishing fuel refineries by UAE investors in Malawi was tabled. This initiative would reduce dependence on imported refined petroleum products, create jobs, and position Malawi as a regional hub for fuel processing.
The discussions also covered expanding trade between the two countries, particularly in high-demand Malawian commodities such as cotton, tobacco, tea, and coffee. The President expressed optimism that enhanced trade relations with the UAE could unlock new markets for Malawian farmers and exporters, ultimately boosting foreign exchange earnings.
President Chakwera highlighted the importance of intensifying collaboration to address immediate and long-term needs beyond fuel supply. Both parties agreed to pursue a robust cooperation agenda that includes broader investments in critical sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and trade.
The President’s meeting with Minister Alsuwaidi underscores Malawi’s commitment to building strategic international partnerships that drive sustainable growth. By leveraging UAE’s expertise and investment capacity, Malawi aims to address pressing economic challenges while laying a foundation for future prosperity.
President Chakwera’s proactive engagement with the UAE reflects a broader vision to position Malawi as a competitive player in the global economy. The initiatives discussed today, if realized, promise transformative benefits for Malawians, from fuel security to expanded trade opportunities.
As the collaboration progresses, Malawians can look forward to the tangible outcomes of this strengthened partnership, further advancing the nation’s development agenda.
Reports are circulating about the formation of a new political party in Malawi, exclusively led and supported by the youth. This initiative, described by some as groundbreaking, has already sparked widespread discussions across the country. The movement has reportedly reached out to many young people, encouraging them to stand as candidates and promising full support in their political endeavors.
The leader at the helm of this youth-centric party is none other than Vasco Madhlopa, a well-known entrepreneur, highly educated, God-fearing, and youthful visionary. Madhlopa is regarded as a rising star in Malawi’s business circles, and his bold decision to venture into politics has intrigued many.
Vasco Madhlopa
The idea of a youth-only political party has been welcomed by some as a long-overdue response to the challenges facing the country’s young population. With high unemployment rates, limited opportunities, and persistent frustrations over being sidelined in mainstream politics, many youths are excited about the prospect of being part of a party that prioritizes their interests.
Madhlopa’s reputation as a successful businessman and devout individual has further boosted confidence in the movement. Many believe that his leadership could usher in a new era of political accountability, innovation, and progress.
Though official details are still scarce, insiders suggest that the party will focus on:
Youth empowerment: Creating jobs, enhancing skills development, and promoting entrepreneurship.
Good governance: Tackling corruption and promoting transparency.
Social justice: Addressing inequalities and advocating for the rights of marginalized groups.
Opinions among Malawians are divided. Supporters see Madhlopa as a symbol of hope for a brighter future, with some describing him as “the right person at the right time.” Critics, however, are questioning whether a party dominated by youth can effectively handle the complexities of governance.
Others are raising concerns about the political landscape becoming even more fragmented, arguing that unity across generations may be a more effective way to bring change.
As the movement gains momentum, many are eager to see whether Madhlopa and his team can deliver on their promises and translate youthful enthusiasm into tangible results. The question remains: Is this the dawn of a new political revolution in Malawi, or just another fleeting experiment?
Malawians, what are your thoughts on Vasco Madhlopa and this youth-driven political initiative? Could this be the change Malawi needs, or are there hidden challenges that need addressing?
The nation waits to see how this bold new chapter unfolds.
President Lazarus Chakwera’s decision to shift from an open tender market to a government deal in the fuel supply chain is being touted as a solid foundation to solve the fuel woes in Malawi.
The lack of fuel has disturbed businesses and seen the country on stand still as fuel is a crucial product that drives the nation’s economy.
Chakwera left Malawi to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a significant step towards addressing the country’s longstanding fuel challenges.
Chakwera in UAE
Social commentator Humphrey Mvula said the new government-to-government fuel deal will greatly enhance the country’s fuel supply and reserves.
This will ensure that Malawi has sufficient fuel stocks.
“It is commendable that President Chakwera was transparent about who is funding the trip, as some may assume he is using the country’s foreign reserves, which is not the case,” Mvula said.
Chakwera is expected to meet His Royal Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates.
Social norms are said to be fueling Gender Based Violence (GBV) cases in the country.
This came out on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Phalula Primary School Ground in Balaka District during the commemoration of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Balaka District Hospital Senior Medical Officer Dr Tiya Malungo said apart from economic challenges and climate change issues, social norms are the contributing factors to Gender Based Violence (GBV) cases in the country.
She said there is a need for collaborative efforts to sensitise people on the effects of Gender Based Violence and how it affects the country’s development.
Malungo urged men to report Gender Based Violence issues to Police and other relevant authorities.
Dr Malunga further said men die in silence when they encounter Gender Based Violence cases in their families and fear being laughed at by their fellow men. She said it is high time men who are abused by their wives to come in the open to report such abuses to relevant authorities to curb Gender Based Violence cases in the families.
Malungo further said women and girls are the major victims of Gender Based Violence, hence asked them to report to Police and relevant authorities once abused.
Phalula Police Unit Officer In-charge Superintendent Patrick Khuoge said the district is registering an increase in Gender Based Violence cases because people are now aware of where to report after being abused in anyway unlike previously when they were not aware of where to report Gender Based Violence cases.
He said Police will continue conducting sensitisation meetings with people on effects of Gender Based Violence and where to report them so that cases of Gender Based Violence are reduced. He explained that Police cannot work in isolation hence the need to join hands in fighting Gender Based Violence cases in the country.
Balaka District Gender Officer Scolastica Datch Shawa who said the fight against Gender Based Violence cases requires much efforts by all stakeholders, saying it is only when stakeholders join hands, Gender Based Violence cases can be reduced.
This year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence is celebrated under the theme: Unite to end violence against women and girls: Towards Beijing +30.
