The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has hailed government decision to transition from open tender to government – to- government procurement as a positive that will likely address the current fuel crisis in the country.

In a statement released on Monday, HRDC says it believes this shift to G2G arrangement is a positive move as the open tender arrangement was prone to abuse and corruption.

” We therefore take note the announcement by the Minister of Energy Hon. Ibrahim Matola that a total of 40,000 metric tons (51.1 million litres) of diesel and petrol will start arriving in the country next week from the United Arab Emirates through the bilateral arrangements Malawi has with Kenya and urge Government to continue with this intervention in the fuel industry as a way of sustainability restoring the security of fuel supply in the country,” reads the statement.

The statement signed by National Chairperson Gift Trapence says the current fuel has a negative impact on productivity through increased production costs, increased transportation costs, reduced business activities to name a few.

” It is therefore our expectation that the fuel currently on its way to Malawi under the G2G arrangement should have lower premiums in comparison to those offered by the current suppliers. It is also our expectation that the G2G arrangement will resolve the ongoing fuel crisis in the country and enhance the efficiency and reliability of the fuel supply.,” says Trapence.

HRDC has urged the government to put in place systems and mechanisms that will ensure that the G2G fuel supply arrangement is not abused.

” We finally call on the Government to investigate and bring to account those that have been abusing the previous fuel procurement system in the country,” Trapence has emphasised.

The 51.1 million litres of fuel are expected to start arriving into the country on Thursday this week.

MBL Holdings Limited, a conglomerate with over 22 subsidiaries across the country and beyond, has shifted its focus from politics to hard work and divine guidance.

According to Leston Mulli, the company’s Executive Chairman, the decision to concentrate on business and leave politics behind has yielded positive results.

Mulli made the remarks during the company’s annual prayer session at its headquarters in Chigumula, Blantyre.

“This year, 2025, which has just begun, I foresee it as a very productive year in business. We are achieving a lot, and we can see light at the end of the tunnel,” Mulli said.

Mulli emphasized the importance of hard work, saying, “My message is, work, work, work, work hard, and we’ll achieve everything. Everything will come because of hard work.”

He also warned employees to be vigilant and resist the influence of Satan, who he believes can derail the company’s progress through politics and other means.

The company’s Chaplain, Professor Billy Gama, echoed Mulli’s sentiments, saying, “We are saying that everything is possible with God. We should never dwell on politics. Politics will never bring food on the table, but hard work and trust in God will.”

MBL Holdings Limited has been conducting prayers in all its subsidiaries, with a focus on seeking divine guidance and direction.

“Let God show us the way,” Professor Gama said.

Mulli also revealed that the company is expanding its operations, with plans to establish a presence in other countries.

“We are in the finalization stage, and once everything is done, we will make the necessary announcements,” he said.

As MBL Holdings Limited continues to grow and expand, its focus on hard work, divine guidance, and apolitical operations is expected to yield even greater success in the future.

President Lazarus Chawera’s new government-to government (G2G) arrangement for importing fuel to address the current fuel shortage in the country has started bearing fruits, with the ministry of energy announcing that Malawi will start receiving 51.1 million litres of fuel from Saudi Arabia next week.

Minster of Energy Ibrahim Matola in a statement on Friday announced that the Government of Malawi has procured 51 million litres of petrol and diesel from the United Arab Emirates to ease the ongoing fuel shortage in the country.

The statement said the 40,000 metric tons (about 51.1 million litres) of fuel, procured under the Kenyan bilateral arrangement with Lilongwe, with start arriving into the country on Thursday next week.

” This emergency fuel procurement aims to supplement the normal fuel imports by NOCMA, Petroleum Importers Limited, and other licenced petroleum importers which have faced challenges in accessing fuel importing financing leading to the current fuel shortages,” said Matola in the statement.

Malawi’s annual fuel import bill stands at $600 million, while the country generates $1 billion in forex annually.
Last month, Malawi Parliament passed the Liquid Fuels and Gas (Production and Supply) Act (Amendment) Bill to facilitate the transition from open tender to government-to-government procurement of fuel.

The new law is meant to operationalise President Lazarus Chakwera’s directive to transition from the open tender system to a government-to-government procurement process and gives the Minister of Energy the power to nominate an agent or State entity to import fuel without the oversight prescribed in the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets (PPDA) Act of 2017.

“Currently, Nocma uses so many suppliers, and so does Petroleum Importers Limited (PIL), but these suppliers import in smaller quantities each, which means they don’t enjoy quantity discounts. Malawi ends up paying more for fuel due to the lack of economies of scale and a fragmented supply chain” said Matola recently.

Under the new arrangement, Nocma will now be able to procure fuel in large quantities from major international oil companies such as the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc), Emirates National Oil Company (Enoc), and Saudi Aramco, among others.

By dealing directly with these oil giants, Malawi will likely secure better pricing and more favorable credit terms.

“With Nocma applying for foreign exchange, the correct demand will be reflected, which will result in a stabilization or even an appreciation of the local currency,” Matola says.

Additionally, the G2G framework will provide more flexibility in payment terms, allowing Nocma to negotiate better credit facilities with oil producers.

“The G2G arrangement will provide more extended credit periods, which will help the country manage its cash flow and avoid the perennial fuel stock-outs that we have witnessed in the past,” Matola adds.

About 1,409 trucks will be required to haul the 51.1 million litres of fuel from Port of Tanga in Tanzania into the country, says the statement.

Malawians can now breathe a sigh of relief as about 51million litres of fuel which the government has procured, is expected to arrive into the country through Tanga Port in Tanzania.

The vessel carrying both petrol and diesel is currently at the port, offloading the much awaited fuel which is a key driver to the country’s economy.

Minister of Energy Ibrahim Matola told the media that about 1049 tankers are expected to carry the fuel to Malawi.

He has since expressed optimism that the 51million litres of fuel will improve the fuel situation in the country as the Chakwera administration plans to deal with this problem once and for all.

NBS Bank plc has announced a significant leap in profitability for the year ending 31 December 2024, projecting a profit after tax between K68.6 billion and K72.5 billion.

This marks an exceptional growth of between 133% and 146.6% compared to the K29.4 billion reported for the same period in 2023 for the ‘Caring Bank’.

In compliance with the Malawi Stock Exchange (MSE) Listings Requirements, the Bank issued a Trading Statement confirming a high degree of certainty regarding its financial performance for the year.

In the statement, NBS Bank plc Company Secretary Marsha Machika stated that the profit increase reflects the Bank’s strong operational strategies and market performance throughout the reporting period.

“This remarkable growth underscores the strength of our business model and our commitment to delivering value for our shareholders. The financial projections are based on internal assessments and have not been audited or reviewed by the company’s external auditors. The Bank expects to publish its audited consolidated and separate financial statements for the year by 30 April 2025,” stated Machika.

The ‘Caring Bank’ continues to solidify its position as one of Malawi’s leading financial institutions, achieving milestones that demonstrate resilience and adaptability in a dynamic economic environment.

Machika further encourages shareholders and stakeholders to wait for the audited results for a comprehensive view of the Bank’s financial performance.

Malawi Stock Exchange-listed National Bank of Malawi (NBM) has announced an anticipated profit growth of up to 37% for the financial year ending December 31, 2024.

The ‘Bank of the Nation’ says it expects its consolidated profit after tax to range between K92.97 billion and K98.25 billion, compared to the K71.96 billion reported in 2023 which represents an impressive increase of 29% to 37%.

In compliance with the Malawi Stock Exchange (MSE) listing requirements, the Bank issued the trading statement to inform stakeholders of the significant deviation exceeding 20% from the previous year’s financial results.

The signed statement by Zunzo Mitole, NBM plc’s Company Secretary, reflects the Bank’s commitment to maintaining transparency with shareholders and stakeholders alike.

Mitole said in the statement that the projected increase reflects a sturdy performance by the Bank, driven by strategic initiatives and operational efficiency despite the challenging economic environment.

“The figures are preliminary and based on internal assessments, as they have not yet been reviewed or audited by external auditors. The final audited financial statements are expected to be published within the required reporting period,” stated Mitole.

The anticipated profit increase signifies the Bank’s consistent commitment to enhancing shareholder value while navigating a dynamic financial landscape.

During its Annual General Meeting within the year, General Secretary for the Minority Shareholders Association, Frank Harawa commended NBM plc for its growth strategy that has seen the Bank register significant profits consistently for the past years.

NBM plc has assured stakeholders in its statement that the audited consolidated and separate financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2024, will be released within the stipulated timeframe, providing detailed insights into its financial standing.

FDH Bank plc has announced that it expects its profit for the year ending December 31, 2024, to grow to between K59.2 billion and K62.5 billion.

This represents a 66 percent and 75 percent increase from the K35.6 billion reported in the previous period last year.

According to the statement released by the Company Secretary Juliano Kanyongolo, the summary consolidated and separate financial statements of the Bank for the year ending December 31^st, 2024 will be published later.

“In terms of the Listing Requirements of the Malawi Stock Exchange, a listed company is required to publish a Trading Statement as soon as there is a reasonable degree of certainty that the financial statements for the period to be reported upon will differ at least 20% from that of the previous corresponding period,” said Kanyongolo.

Kanyongolo further said the information on which the Trading Statement is based has not been reviewed and reported on by its external auditors of FDH plc.

Earlier this year, the Malawi Stock Exchange-listed Bank announced a substantial profit-after-tax increase by 55 percent from K22.932 billion to K35.467 billion last year.

Giant alcoholic beverage producer in the country, Castel Malawi Limited has recognised 69 long serving employees in the year 2024 by giving them certificates and other varying items. 

The company started the rewarding process for this year last week in Mzuzu and Lilongwe where they recognised six employees in each of the two distribution centres. 

On Christmas eve, Castel Malawi extended the awards to 57 more employees in Blantyre by giving them iron sheets, upright fridges, mountain bikes, and six inches double mattresses each according to the years they have served the company.

Castel’s Senior Human Resources Business Partner, Thomas Mafuli presided over the awards ceremony where he emphasized the company’s commitment to motivating its employees in the best way it can manage.

“The reason behind celebrating the employees is that for us to sail through the year in the hardships, we need to maintain a dedicated and committed workforce now. We believe recognizing our employees is also part of motivating them, just to make sure that they push with us, they go with us,” said Mafuli. 

He added that even though the company sailed through troubled waters in the year 2024 due to other internal and external factors like Forex and fuel shortages, it was crucial to recognise the employees’ efforts to keep the company afloat. 

“The year 2024, has been a mix bag in our operations because we have faced challenges, but on the other hand we have managed to sail through. These successes, just to begin with, is to say that we’ve managed to at least do some projects that we have managed to do within the year,” added Mafuli. 

One of the longest serving employees at 30 years, Jean N’thini commended Castel Malawi for the recognition. 

“This has been my home for the past 30 years. I believe this is not a small achievement and to be honoured by the company is something that I cherish. I thank Management for such events. To my colleagues, I urge them to work hard on their respective departments because one day we will also be celebrating them,” she said. 

N’thini got 30 IBR iron sheets.

Honouring long serving employees at Castel Malawi has now turned into annual event.

Sponsors Castel Malawi Limited and Football Association of Malawi (FAM) have expressed excitement over the improved level of competition in this year’s Castel Challenge Cup. 

This season’s competition wrapped up on Saturday with Blantyre-based Mighty Mukuru Wanderers defeating Mzuzu City Hammers 1-0 to clinch the highest football cup on the land. 

The victory not only earned Wanderers the coveted Castel Trophy, but also a cash prize of K55 million, marking a celebratory moment for the team and its fans.

Lavern Chitakata, Head of Corporate Marketing and Communications for Castel Malawi Limited, expressed satisfaction with the event’s success and fans’ peaceful conduct.

“We are thrilled by the turnout and the vibrant energy at the stadium. Seeing supporters of both teams turn out in large numbers to witness the thrilling encounter was exciting. The match was thrilling, and managing the tournament with so many participating teams has been rewarding,” said Chatakata.

Chitakata also hinted at an even more promising future for the Castel Challenge Cup.

“We are proud to have raised the bar in Malawian football and are excited to announce that next year’s package will be even more exciting for football lovers. We encourage everyone to stay tuned. As Castel, we are happy to announce our commitment to a K1 billion sponsorship for the next season.”

“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to supporting sports development. Football has the power to inspire and unite, and we are proud to play a role in nurturing its growth in Malawi,” said Chitakata.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) President Fleetwood Haiya praised the quality of the competition and the partnership with Castel Malawi.

“This season has been exceptional, showcasing talented players and skilled coaches. We are grateful to Castel Malawi for their continued trust and support. This partnership goes beyond monetary support because it is about creating opportunities, fostering talent, and building a legacy for the sport in Malawi,” Haiya remarked.

Speaking after the match, goal scorer Thierry Tanjong Sama expressed his joy and pride in contributing to his team’s victory.

“This is a dream come true for me. Coming off the bench and being able to make such an impact in a game of this magnitude is something every player dreams of. It wasn’t just my goal; it was a team effort. We worked hard throughout the tournament, and I am proud of how we came together as a team,” said Sama.

Despite their loss, Mzuzu City Hammers walked away with a K25 million prize as runners-up.

FCB Nyasa Big Bullets FC and Panthers FC, who reached the semi-finals, each received K12 million for their commendable performances.

The Castel Challenge Cup has become a cornerstone of Malawian football, fostering competition and talent development.

The 2024 edition not only captivated fans but also highlighted the growth of the sport in the country, with the promise of even greater opportunities in the years to come.

Excitement is building up as Castel Malawi Limited has set the mood for the final showdown in the Castel Cup between Mighty Mukuru Wanderers and Mzuzu City Hammers at Bingu Stadium (BNS) in Lilongwe on Saturday. 

The two sides had an exciting journey to reach the finals and were probably not the favourites for the encounter considering their super league tracks this season.

However, Mzuzu City Hammers pulled a surprise last weekend as they edged defending champions, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets 4-1 through post-match penalties after a goalless encounter in the regulation time. 

This could be Wanderers’ chance for a consolation to its supporters having failed to secure one in the TNM Super League, Airtel Top 8, and FDH Cup this season. 

Ahead of the final showdown, Castel Malawi Head of Corporate Marketing and Communications, Lavern Chitakata said they are excited with this year’s competition as it also pulled a lot of surprise guests like Panthers from the Central Region Football League which booted out four super league sides, including league champions, Silver Strikers. 

“We had increased the funds this year to K400 million because we saw a few gaps in the officiation especially from district and regional levels. We must say we have seen a great improvement which made a lot of teams participate, a lot of transparency which gave teams the comfortability to freely take part.” 

“We are happy that most games also utilized the local stadiums like Mangochi, Balaka, Dedza, Karonga, which gave us a chance to engage more people, with even the elite teams. Motivating the young ones in the rural areas,” she said. 

Chitakata further indicated that the impressive performance by regional teams speaks volumes of Castel’s commitment to unearthing talent in the country. 

“We had teams like Hilltop for the regional games. They made it to round of 16, teams like Panthers that just joined and played in quarter finals, MMF Marine playing Bullets. For us it shows the seriousness in the country.”

“Our aim was to unearth talent and elevate the football in Malawi. The two finalists, that was so unexpected, it shows you the level of football is going way up and the fight for better is getting stronger,” she added. 

Going forward, Chitakata said Castel wants to have more teams register in the cup next year and intends to increase the number of district grounds.

Mzuzu City Hammers patron, Gift Mkandawire said fans should expect another surprise performance from the side. 

“We are all set to show the Nomads that we are the new giants in town,” he said.

Wanderers Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Panganeni Ndovi affirmed their intentions to win the Cup for the season.

“It’s our chance to win something this season. We will not relent,” he said. 

Meanwhile, the final showdown is spiced by shows which started on Thursday at lower Biwi and Area 25 Nsungwi. 

On the match day, patrons will be entertained with music from Fada Moti and Piksy at the match venue apart from the give-away prizes.