FDH Holdings Financial Limited Chief Executive Officer William Mpinganjira has underscored the importance of effective communication between the top management and the public Relations and communication team to achieve strategic business objectives.
Mpinganjira spoke in his presentation ‘Setting PR and Communication agenda from the C-suite’ at the Public Relations Society of Malawi (PRSM) annual lake conference in Mangochi on Friday.
In his presentation, he highlighted several issues including crisis management and Media Sensitivity.
He gave an example of how FDH Bank Plc saw the importance of having a PR and Communication team to help attain its growth ambitions.
“Effective crisis management and communication are crucial although difficult to execute under pressure. Sometimes media coverage tends to focus on negative stories so managing media relations is a critical aspect of PR to ensure balanced reporting with the CEO setting the agenda of what needs to be communicated,” said Mpinganjira.
In his opening address, Minister of Information and Digitization Moses Kukuyu said Public Relations specialists, are important people that any serious organization or government that cares about managing its public image must have in its top management teams.
“Despite still being in its nascent years, PRSM is, nonetheless, taking brave strides to play a crucial role in the country’s strategic development agenda. I also take note of PRSM’s initiatives to champion the enactment of the PR and Communication legislation.”
“As the government, we shall support PRSM’s initiative so that there is proper legislation to regulate the PR and communication profession. Government believes this regulation will enhance professionalism, protect the public interest, and provide clarity on industry standards,” said Kunkuyu.
The three-day conference is being held under the theme ‘Managing Narratives for Enhances Democracy and Development’.
The Mulhako wa Alhomwe annual festival is expected to draw a massive crowd of over 40,000 people from across Malawi, festival Chairperson, Counsel Felix Tambulasi, has confirmed.
The event, scheduled to take place from today Friday to Sunday at Chonde Cultural Village in Mulanje district, promises to be an exciting celebration of Lhomwe traditions and culture.
“Everything is set for the gala. We expect thousands of people from all regions to grace the event,” Tambulasi
This year’s festival will be held under the theme “United for Purpose.”
Former State President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, also the patron of Mulhako wa Alhomwe and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate for the 2025 elections, is expected to close the ceremony on Sunday.
Mulhako Wa Alhomwe was established in 2007 with the aim of promoting Lhomwe culture by among other objectives, instilling a sense of pride in its people.
The formation of the organization revived some of the cultural practices that had been on the death bed.
The Lomwe are one of the four largest ethnic groups living in Malawi.
They are located primarily in the southeast section of Malawi with the largest concentration being in Phalombe, Mulanje, Thyolo, Chiradzulu, Zomba districts.
NBM Malata handing over medical supplies to Sister Kunkeyani
National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has donated essential drugs and medical supplies worth K3.9 million to Magomero Health Centre in Zomba.
The Catholic mission-established Health Centre has recently faced financial challenges despite providing healthcare to a catchment population of over 35,000 across 59 villages, thereby forcing the Sister-in-Charge of the institution to approach NBM plc for assistance.
Speaking when she handed over the donation on Wednesday, NBM plc Zomba Service Centre Manager Tawina Malata said the ‘Bank of Nation’ believes that good health is the foundation of a prosperous society and the donation exemplifies NBM plc’s dedication to making a difference in the health and well-being of the communities.
“We came here to help fill that gap by donating K3.9 million worth of essential drugs and medical supplies to support the invaluable work that this health centre performs daily. We recognize that healthcare is not just about infrastructure or staffing, but also about ensuring that the necessary medicines are available to those who need them most.”
“This donation underscores our commitment to the health and well-being of the communities we serve. It is part of our broader corporate social responsibility initiative, which focuses on improving lives through sustainable and impactful contributions,” said Malata.
The Health Centre’s Officer-in-Charge, Sister Juliana Kunkeyani thanked NBM for the timely donation which will help save lives of many patients who fail to pay for their treatment.
“We were failing to give good services because we lack essential medical supplies, the coming in of these drugs and other medical supplies will help us offer proper care to our patients,” said Sister Kunkeyani.
She added that the facility still needs beds, linen, plus equipment for its new maternity wing under construction.
Established in 1947, Magomero Health Centre is situated 32 kilometers from Zomba Central Hospital.
The Center for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) is demanding for an immediate intervention from the Office of Attorney General to take action by challenging Court order on freezing SSCL bank accounts.
In a letter copied to Salima Sugar Company Limited and Green Belt Authority, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa wants the commitment made by Attorney General Thabo Chakaka-Nyirenda in recovering public finances come to pass.
Namiwa is against the current trend of selective justice that is portraying the office of the Attorney General as among compromised agencies.
The call by CDEDI are coming after Malawians have had a rude awakening from verified media reports indicating that the High Court had ordered the freezing of the SSCL’s bank accounts yet it has been on the mercy of its stakeholders.
For instance Mount Meru which also had its bank accounts frozen oover dubious exportation of 1,500 MT Salima Sugar to Rwanda and asked the current management of SSCL to have mercy as the company was willing to be a government witness.
The Attorney General has been reminded that the SSCL was set up to among others provide the much-needed competition to the Illovo dominated sugar industry, for the betterment of the majority low-income consumers that are struggling to access the basic commodity, fortified with Vitamin A supplement.
“For your own information, Illovo has raised sugar prices twice this year, in a space of six months, therefore Malawians’ eyes are fixed at the developments unfolding at the SSCL to provide affordable sugar, hence their interest on this matter,” says Namiwa.
The government principal legal advisor has since been urged to challenge the High Court ruling as well as ensuring that the remaining suspects are arrested, starting with their local agents, who are currently facilitating the freezing of the SSCL’s bank accounts.
Chakaka-Nyirenda has also been ordered to give a progress report and justify the apparent selective application of justice on arrests, including how much in cash and assets has been recovered so far, ten months after committing to address the vice.
“Failure to do the needful, will prompt Malawians to conclude that you are too compromised to defend public interests, therefore, the noble thing to do is to force you Sir, to resign since you made that public undertaking while fully aware of its implications,” reads the letter from CDEDI and the office of the Attorney General has confirmed receipt of the same.
The recent media reports that the High Court’s commercial division in Blantyre has barred Salima Sugar Company Limited (SSCL) from using $2.3 million (about K5.3 billion) in its bank accounts, pending the conclusion of an outstanding case between the firm and Mukteshwar Sugar mills Limited, coupled with the Illovo Sugar price hike, has reminded Malawians of an undertaking AG Chakaka-Nyirenda publicly made on December 5, 2023 when officially unveiling the contents of the November 2023 forensic audit commissioned by the Malawi Government on SSCL, which brought to light reports that about US$30 million (about MK51 billion) was misappropriated.
He made the pledge through a televised press briefing where Malawians were assured that all the money would be recovered and those involved would be arrested with their assets forfeited to recover the public funds, some of which included public debts.
Initially SSCL Chairman Shirieesh Betgiri, was arrested and the national police spokesperson Peter Kalaya told the nation that the police had secured five warrants of arrests for Betgiri, Dr. Henry Njoloma, Prashant Sharma, Vikas Hirawatt and Sachin Nikam.
While there was a commitment by the Malawi Police Service to bring suspects home so that they can answer the charges in court, there has been deafening silence on the matter until in May this year when Media reported that Mount Meru is off the hook having appealed for mercy.
Standard Bank Plc has kept its word to use its signature Lilongwe half-marathon Be More Race to donate K36 million towards the Children’s Education Centre at Kamuzu Central Hospital Children’s Cancer Centre in Lilongwe.
The bank matched by 100% the initial K18 million it realized from registration fees paid by participants of the July 20, 2024 race bringing the total contribution to K36 million.
Speaking during a fund-raising dinner organized by Baylor Foundation Malawi National Cancer Center as part of September Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Head of Legal and Governance Norah Nsanja said the donation is a fulfillment of the bank’s pledge to channel proceeds from the race towards the Children Cancer Ward at Kamuzu Central Hospital.
“Education at the cancer center plays a crucial role in providing stability and hope for young patients undergoing treatment at the center. By donating to the Children’s Education Centre, Standard Bank seeks to ensure that these children remain engaged in their studies, fostering a sense of normalcy and empowerment during their treatment journey,” she said.
She said this year’s Be More Race, which was the 6th in the series, was held under the theme; “Why We Run” to evoke an emotional connection between the race and doing good for the society.
Director for Pediatric Cancer Department of Kamuzu Central Hospital Dr. Rezine Mzikamanda said the contribution will support creating a nurturing environment where patients can engage in interactive learning and peer support.
“The bank’s contribution will play a crucial role in improving the educational experience and emotional well-being of childhood cancer patients and their families,” said Mzikamanda.
Mzikamanda hailed all the stakeholders for making the fundraising event a success adding that the main objective was achieved.
“The fundraising event successfully met its objectives, we raised the necessary funds and increased awareness about childhood cancer, engaging the community and building valuable connections. We thank all the partners, and we look forward to continuing future engagements and support to promote the overall well-being of children with cancer,” added Mzikamanda.
Funds to be raised will be allocated towards the refurbishment of the center as well as the purchase of educational materials that cater to the unique needs of children, enabling them to continue their learning despite the challenges they face.
Castel Malawi Limited has donated K2 million to the Public Relations Society of Malawi (PRSM) for its annual lake conference scheduled for Mangochi this weekend.
Speaking during the cheque handover ceremony in Blantyre, Castel’s Head of Corporate Marketing and Communication, Lavern Chitakata, appreciated the society and acknowledged that the donation is enriching to drive sustainability and underscores Castel Malawi’s commitment to supporting the development of public relations in the country.
“At Castel Malawi, we understand the crucial role that communication professionals play in shaping public perception and driving national development. By supporting this conference, we aim to strengthen the professional capacity of public relations practitioners in Malawi.”
“One of our pillars is CSR and we believe in sustainable and fruitful Public Relations engagements that enhance the growth of the communities and foster change of mindset. Additionally, Castel Malawi recognizes the role of transparent and accountable communication in fostering a healthy democracy,” said Chitakata
PRSM Executive Committee Member, Wadza Otomani, expressed gratitude to Castel Malawi for the generous support, highlighting the importance of corporate partnerships in advancing the Public Relations profession.
“We are thankful for this timely donation from Castel Malawi, which will go a long way in ensuring the success of our conference. It’s encouraging to see companies like Castel Malawi recognize the value of effective communication and how it contributes to national progress,” said Otomani.
The conference will be held under the theme ‘Managing Narratives for Enhanced Democracy and Development’.
Opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) governor for eastern region Daudi Chikwanje is under fire for uttering provocative remarks ahead of the general elections next year.
Chikwanje who is currently answering charges of insisting violence, reportedly made remarks at a political rally in Machinga that could potentially ignite violence.
In a video clip that has gone viral on social media, Chikwanje rallied people in in the eastern region and DPP sympathisers to start ill treating governing Malawi Congress Party (MCP) members when the go to areas deemed as DPP’s stronghold.
Monitoring on Newstalk programme on Capital Radio recently, a majority of the contributors condemned Chikwanje who is also a parliamentarian.
For example, one of the callers from Lilongwe who identified himself as Mr. Zimba from Lilongwe said: “Honorable Chikwanje should be ashamed himself for what he has spoken. Already stakeholders are trying to preach peace and political tolerance and he is here wooing his party supporters to promote hooliganism. What kind of a leader is he?”
Another one, Chimwemwe Mtundaumodzi from Mwanza said: “People should now question that if leaders are calling their supporters to be violent against others, what more dirty will they do when voted into power? Malawians must wake up and let us not vote for DPP again.
Another participant, Filimoni Khoviwa from Mulanje’s Chinakanaka area condemned the act and said police should arrest everyone who promotes violence to deter would be offenders.
“The police have done well to arrest him [Chikwanje] so that it should set a precedent. We do not want violence during the entire electoral process. Let the law enforcers go flat out to arrest everyone everywhere who is promoting violence. Those who do violence are enemies of our beautiful Malawi,” fumed Vokhiwa.
Various electoral stakeholder including the MCP have condemned Chikwanje and his party for the unfortunate statement and for being unapologetic to Malawians.
National police spokesperson Peter Kalaya has assured that every violent scene is being investigated and nobody will go unpunished.
The Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) has given K5 million to the Karonga-Chitipa Cultural Festival scheduled for October 18-19 at Mbande Hills in Karonga.
The event aims to preserve and promote the culture and traditions of the two districts.
Director of Operations at MAGLA, Lawrence Chikoko presented the cheque to the festival organisers in Lilongwe on Friday where he said the authority is committed to supporting artistic and cultural initiatives in the country.
“We are delighted to support this upcoming festival, as it not only promotes our cultural heritage but also contributes to tourism, which is a key part of our national identity.”
“Festivals like these bring different people together, even people from outside the country. This is a big gesture that directly impacts on the economic activities of the country,” said Chikoko.
In his remarks, Karonga-Chitipa Cultural Heritage chairperson, Marumbo Mwasinga hailed MAGLA for the contribution which he said will go a long way in meeting their budget deficit.
“The donation will help us plan some of the things for the festival. It will go a long way,” he said.
Mwasinga said the event is budgeted at K50 million.
Under the theme ‘Unity in Diversity-Respect and Justice for All,’ the event will be graced by Paramount Chief Kyungu XXIV and will feature traditional dances, urban entertainment, local cuisine, a market for local products, and other activities.
Listed National Bank of Malawi (NBM) has committed to continue providing reliable and secure digital banking services in the country as they celebrate 16 years of its flagship Mo626 existence.
Head of Digital Financial Services at the Bank, William Kaunda made the assurance on Friday in Lilongwe when the ‘Bank of the Nation’ celebrated the digital platform’s milestone at a cocktail party.
Graced by the Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) deputy governor McDonald Mafuta-Mwale, NBM’s former Chief Executive Officers George Partridge and McFussy Kawawa, former employees, business gurus, government institutions representatives, and customers, the event highlighted the growth path of the innovation since its inception in 2008.
Kaunda said Mo626 processes about six million financial transactions each month, with a total value exceeding K600 billion.
“From what started as an SMS banking platform, today it is encompassing mobile and E-money services and has continuously evolved becoming a household name. We keep upgrading so as to remain relevant and give our customers good and secure services in the comfort of their homes,” said Kaunda.
In his remarks, Mafuta-Mwale commended NBM plc for being the digital banking pioneers through the introduction of the platform, which he said has played a big role in complimenting their efforts to promote financial inclusion in the country.
“The coming of digital banking platforms like Mo626 has not only reduced the demand for physical cash, but also provided a more stable alternative. People no longer have to seek the banking services in banking halls. They can now conclude a transaction from their homes without using cash,” he said.
As part of the celebrations, NBM plc credited the oldest, and frequent users of Mo626 with K16,000 as a token of appreciation.
One such customer, Susan Loga, conceded that the digital platform has simplified life as she makes payments of goods and services digitally.
“I am now a big member of the cashless society, courtesy of NBM’s Mo626,” she said.
Apart from crediting customers, the Bank also recognised the roles played by some of its staff in developing and growing the platform.
Some of the people awarded at the event included Partridge, Kaunda, Brian Bobby, Annie Magola, John Mitchell, and Wilkins Mijiga.
Malawi Stock Exchange-listed NBS Bank has disclosed that it has offered K40 billion in guarantees and loans to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) this year as strategic components of the economy.
The Bank’s Chief Wholesale Banking Officer Alfred Nhlema said this on Friday when he opened an SMEs clinic for Lilongwe entrepreneurs to interact and share notes about their business journey.
“In the same spirit of ‘I care’, at NBS Bank plc we have chosen to side with the many. This year we have offered over K40 billion in guarantees and loans to SMEs who account for 40 percent of the GDP of Malawi and 24 percent of the workforce. These are not mere statistics that is why at NBS Bank we take SMEs seriously,”
“One of the key products that we want these SMEs to benefit from is the ‘Zayera’ loan which is subsidized at nine percent,” said Nhlema.
The clinic was led by Sycamore Consult Limited Managing Director, Audrey Mwala as the guest speaker.
In her presentations, Mwala said lack of financial knowledge is one of the factors hindering SMEs from growing.
“So, the SMEs here have been challenged to know that they are an important player in the sector, they are contributing to 40 percent of our GDP and we need to embrace and help them grow.”
“There is a mentality in the minds of SMEs that I will be small, but we expect that through the credit facilities coming from NBS Bank plc, they should use that as an advantage to scale up. Scaling up and growth will not happen fast with internal resources, you are supposed to leverage and use external resources like loans to help you grow,” said Mwala.
One of the Bank’s loan beneficiaries, Sphiwe Msiska of MCM Investments hailed NBS Bank plc for financial advice that has helped in her cooking oil manufacturing and construction business.
“NBS Bank plc helped us on how best to register collateral, valuation, and access a loan facility. By the end of the day, we have benefitted more,” said Msiska.
