Nakoma (2nd Right) with Kadzamira handing over desks to Thombozi (far left) ministry of education official Benard Kumanda
NBS Bank plc in partnership with Roads Fund Administration (RFA) have donated desks worth K17.5 million to Kalinyeke Full Primary School in Dedza.
Speaking during the handover ceremony held at the school on Thursday, NBS Bank plc Head of Corporate Banking Frank Nakoma said the donation is part of the Bank’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), specifically in the education sector.
“We are more than a Bank and we believe in being an integral part of the communities we serve in, and for that reason we are always concerned with the problems communities face. So, when we saw that the school was lacking desks, we decided to come in and assist them with 160 desks.”
“These desks must not just be looked as desks, but as brighter and great minds for the future Malawi. Therefore, the donation is one step in our broader efforts to support quality education across Malawi,” said Nakoma.
The Roads Fund Administration Tolling Operations Manager Dalitso Kadzamira commended NBS Bank plc for the donation at the school.
“We thank NBS Bank plc for the helping hand. Two years ago, we identified the need for desks and other equipment at the school following our program of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). And we partnered with NBS Bank plc to come to the rescue of the school and hence the 160 desks being donated today,” said Kadzamira.
Speaking after receiving the desks, the school’s Headmaster, Clara Thombozi also expressed her overwhelming gratitude to NBS Bank.
“Kalinyeke FP School, like many rural schools, has faced significant challenges in providing adequate furniture for its growing student population.”
“Many of the students were sitting on the floor which saw a greater number of students not attending school. But with the donation made by NBS Bank plc and Roads Fund Administration we have seen the numbers increasing greatly,” said Thombozi.
Kalinyeke FP School has a total number of 1438 pupils who have benefited from the donation made by the Bank
The People’s Development Party (PDP) has raised alarm over what it calls a “crisis” in the voter registration process ahead of Malawi’s 2025 general elections.
In a press statement delivered at the Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe, PDP President Dr. Kondwani Nankhumwa criticized the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and the National Registration Bureau (NRB) for what he described as a “flawed” and “inefficient” voter registration exercise, which is currently underway in multiple districts across the country.
Dr. Nankhumwa expressed deep concern about the widespread delays and technical failures in the process, warning that many eligible voters could be disenfranchised if immediate action is not taken.
“The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) is implementing the second phase of voter registration in several cities and districts,” Dr. Nankhumwa said.
“But as we speak, the ongoing voter registration exercise is encountering significant challenges, and many eligible voters across the country risk being denied their fundamental right to register for the upcoming election.”
At the heart of the issue, Dr. Nankhumwa pointed to the failure of the NRB to issue national identification cards (IDs) to citizens in time for registration.
“The NRB’s ability to issue these IDs in a timely manner is central to ensuring that no eligible citizen is left out of the process,” he explained.
“Unfortunately, bureaucratic inefficiencies, lack of public awareness campaigns, and inadequate resources have created barriers that could disenfranchise large portions of the electorate.”
The PDP leader warned that such failures could call into question the legitimacy of the 2025 election.
“The failure to address these challenges risks disenfranchising thousands, if not millions, of eligible voters—many of whom are already marginalized by systemic inefficiencies,” he said.
“This is not just a logistical challenge; it’s a direct attack on the democratic rights of Malawians.”
Dr. Nankhumwa further criticized both the MEC and the NRB for their lack of preparedness and efficiency, emphasizing that the credibility of the electoral process is at stake.
He also expressed concern over the NRB’s capacity to manage the registration process effectively, citing delays in ID issuance and the absence of staff at many registration centers.
“These issues are compounded by concerns over the credibility and neutrality of the NRB itself,” he said.
“Given the central role this institution plays in the electoral process, its ability to act with impartiality and competence is essential.”
To address the challenges, Dr. Nankhumwa proposed the creation of an Electoral Integrity Platform (EIP)—a collaborative forum aimed at bringing together key stakeholders, including the MEC, NRB, political parties, and civil society organizations, to ensure that the voter registration process is transparent, inclusive, and effective.
“The establishment of EIP could be a strategic initiative aimed at addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with the electoral process,” Dr. Nankhumwa said.
“This platform is essential for fostering dialogue, building trust, and implementing effective solutions to enhance electoral integrity.”
The proposed platform would focus on resolving issues such as the delayed issuance of national IDs, technical failures in MEC’s systems, and allegations of voter suppression.
Dr. Nankhumwa also called for a transparent investigation into reports of irregularities and called for the MEC to act decisively to restore public confidence in the election process.
The PDP leader also weighed in on the ongoing calls for the resignation of the MEC Chairperson, Justice Anabel Mtalimanja, who has faced criticism due to her familial ties to former MCP president John Tembo.
Despite defending her personal integrity, Dr. Nankhumwa advised Mtalimanja to consider stepping down, given the public perception that her position may not be neutral.
“Many Malawians now perceive Justice Mtalimanja as a member of MCP regardless of whether her decisions are right or wrong,” he said.
“She has lost the trust of the people, and my advice to her is to protect her integrity.”
Dr. Nankhumwa concluded his statement by calling for unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to resolve the issues plaguing the voter registration process.
“Now is not the time for division or inflammatory rhetoric but for collaboration, with a shared commitment to ensuring that every Malawian can participate in free, fair, and credible elections,” he urged.
As Malawi prepares for the 2025 elections, Dr. Nankhumwa’s remarks highlight the urgent need for electoral reforms to address the inefficiencies and challenges undermining the voter registration process.
A field of 120 golfers is ready to tee off in Saturday’s tournament by Standard Bank Plc at Lilongwe Golf Club.
LGC Captain Maziko Kumbani said the Standard Bank-sponsored tournament promises intense competition from golfers who will be swinging hard to outgun each other for prestigious medals lined up.
“As Captain, I am thrilled to welcome back Standard Bank to Lilongwe Golf Club as they bring their prestigious “Be More Golf” tournament, themed “Sustainable Swing.” This highly anticipated event promises intense competition and unforgettable moments on the course with over 120 golfers vying for top honors,” he said.
Kumbani thanked Standard Bank for its unwavering commitment to the game of golf and the bank’s remarkable support for the LGC fraternity.
“This partnership continues to elevate the sport and inspire excellence both on and off the course. I wish all the golfers all the best, ” he said.
Saturday’s tournament under the theme “The Sustainable Swing”, will spotlight Standard Bank’s role in harnessing economic sustainability and responsible business.
The tournament is designed to bring together business leaders, clients, and sustainability advocates for a day of golf. They will network and share ideas on sustainable development in both respects of business continuity and community well-being.
“At Standard Bank, we believe that sustainable growth is key to creating long-term value—for our clients, our communities, and our economy. We are again excited to host this unique event that not only showcases the beauty of the sport but also highlights our commitment to supporting the individual and business growth,” said the sponsor’s Chief Executive Phillip Madinga.
He added that Standard Bank is committed to embedding sustainable practices into its operations, from reducing carbon footprint to financing projects that have a positive financial and social impact earmarked to grow the economy.
“The tournament is a celebration of the positive impact that sport and sustainability can have when they work hand in hand. We are proud to bring BeMore golf again to see so many golfers taking steps to promote financial sustainability that drive growth,” added the Chief Executive.
The tournament will culminate in a celebratory reception, where attendees will learn more about the Standard Bank initiatives to support green banking, including renewable energy investments, sustainable lending practices, and partnerships with environmentally conscious businesses.
The 2024 edition of BeMore Golf Tournament will use the Individual Medal format with all the proceeds channeled towards Kamuzu Central Hospital’s Children’s Cancer Centre.
Some vendors plying their trade in Limbe Central Business District have hailed the Malawi Police Services (MPs) for establishing an additional Police Unit in the township.
The decision follows a gesture by the Pacific Limited to offer an office space in one of its Pacific Tower to the law enforcers which is being used as a Police Unit.
Secretary for the Limbe Town Vendors Association, Newton Mwenyekondo has disclosed to Malawi voice that this has helped to reduce a distance the vendors used to cover when taking suspects to Limbe Police Station.
“The situation was really tough before the coming in of the police unit as we used conduct our businesses with fear of being robbed. There were also a lot of cases of our customers being robbed by some street kids. We can safely say there is currently maximum security which has greatly enhanced our businesses”, said Mwenyekondo.
On his part, Limbe Police Station Deputy Public Relations Officer, Sub Inspector Chibisa Mulimbika disclosed that the development has contributed to a reduction of crimes by five percent.
“To us, this has given us an added advantage as it has enabled us to have an additional listening post of our men who patrols the city whose number has been doubled”, said Mulimbika.
On his part, operations manager for the Pacific Limited Abdul Gomiwa said apart from the company offering an office space for a new police unit it’s Pacific Tower, the company has also allocated an office space to an old Limbe free Market police unit in its Pacific plaza.
Limbe is Township is one of the busiest township in Blantyre apart from Blantyre Central Business District with criminal activities reportedly being on the rise in the recent past.
Mchinji, November 13, Mana: President Lazarus Chakwera has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ongoing development efforts in Mchinji District and the country at large.
Addressing people at Kamwendo Trading Centre on Wednesday during a whistle-stop tour, Chakwera highlighted various initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and economic opportunities in the district.
This stop was the fourth on his tour, which also included visits to Tembwe and Waliranji Trading Centres and a meeting with local chiefs at Mchinji Teacher Training College.
“We are making sure that development reaches everyone so that people can live dignified lives without reliance on aid. We have started rehabilitating railways and roads to help farmers transport their produce more easily,” Chakwera said.
The President cited the planned rehabilitation of the Mkanda to Kasungu road, which will connect Mchinji with Kasungu District, as an example of projects aimed at enhancing district connectivity.
He also emphasised the government’s efforts to improve access to the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) by removing collateral requirements, enabling more people to establish sustainable businesses.
Earlier, Member of Parliament for Mchinji Central Constituency Jephther Mwale expressed appreciation for the increase in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to K200 million, which he said is facilitating construction of classroom blocks and bridges. Mwale also praised Chakwera for revitalising agriculture in the district, a sector he noted had been in decline.
Mwale also encouraged the people to register, a message President Chakwera and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) regional governor Patrick Zebron Chilondola also tackled. Chilondola said people are already registering in large numbers but there are some who have not.
“Do not wait for the last day of voter registration. You have to go now and make sure you have registered,” said Chilondola
The African Climate Fund (ACF) has appointed a Special Advisor to develop its program in Malawi in what could be a crucial step towards supporting the country’s climate resilience and sustainable development efforts.
This was discussed during a meeting which Vice President Dr. Michael Usi had with ACF Executive Director Mr. Saliem Fakir on the sidelines of COP-29 currently underway in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The two discussed collaborative efforts in addressing climate change and advancing Malawi’s development goals. Currently ACF operates in South Africa, Senegal, Kenya, and Nigeria, with plans to expand into Tanzania, Zambia, and Malawi.
The organisation works with intergovernmental organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to integrate climate change initiatives with economic development focusing on the impacts of extreme weather events such as Cyclone Freddy that devastated Malawi.
Welcoming ACF’s footprints into Malawi, the Vice President highlighted the need for adequate resources to recover from the extensive damage caused by Cyclone Freddy so that the country can focus on economic development.
Insurance Association of Malawi (IAM) says they expect improved efficiency by all the general insurance companies in the country following the introduction of the new Digital Motor Vehicle Insurance Certificates (DMVIC).
IAM representative, Dickson Malamba made the remarks in Mzuzu on Monday when the association held an interface session with police traffic officers, the media and others to brief them about the development and key distinguishing features between the old and new certificates.
He said all general insurance companies will cease to issue pre-printed certificates by December 31 this year, and the new system allows them to use one system for issuing the certificates, therefore there will be no excuses for inefficiency.
“Effective January 1, 2025, IAM will no longer use pre-printed insurance certificates for printing insurance certificates. Preprinted insurance certificates will be valid until December 31 2026. Further, the system will be instrumental in tracking stolen vehicles and eliminating fraudulent motor vehicle certificates on the roads of Malawi.”
“It is therefore important that we engage these stakeholders including the media so that they help us disseminate the information with the masses,” said Malamba.
Regional Police Traffic Officer for the North, Superintendent Augustine Chakanika commended IAM for the sensitisation meeting.
Malamba making a presentation
“We thank IAM for engaging us and for the new system. Our work involves enforcing such things like insurance, we therefore needed to know of the changes and how to easily track the counterfeit ones through the verification process that we have been told,” he said.
One of the journalists, Grecian Mbewe from Tuntufye Radio in Karonga also commended IAM for including them in the picture.
“As journalists from community radios, we play a big role in sensitising members of the community on any new developments. Most people follow community radios because they relate well with developments around their locations and the local languages used. The DMVIC will play a crucial role in eliminating accidents in our areas especially those caused by drivers with fraudulent certificates, this time they can’t beat the system,” said Mbewe.
Through the system, people can access DMVIC from their brokers digitally using platforms like WhatsApp and then print.
They can also verify the validity of the certificates using USSD code *4273# or download an application and install in their smartphones.
Reports reaching our publication shows that Orama Namalomba, the individual who recorded Martha Chizuma, has allegedly received K10 million to target prominent figures and government critics.
Known by his real name, Anderson Mwakyelu, he currently faces theft charges for allegedly claiming allowances for 1,000 nights in a single year during his tenure as an accountant in the Accountant General’s office.
It is reported that he was subsequently promoted to a director position as a reward for his role in the Chizuma case, with protection from Police Head of Operations, Commissioner Muwanga.
Mwakyelu is reportedly using his influence to defame figures such as Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, DPP, UTM and AFORD officials, Catholic bishops and judiciary members.
Additionally, he is said to have fabricated a story targeting Prophet Shepherd Bushiri as part of his broader campaign.
According to sources, Mwakyelu has been promised a new position at the State House if he continues his efforts.
He has allegedly been coordinating his activities using the phone number +265 99 937 5158, in collaboration with senior Malawi Congress officials and Commissioner Muwanga.
President Dr Lazarus Chakwera today led Malawians in commemorating the 2024 Poppy Day at Zomba War Memorial Tower in Zomba.
The ceremony also marked Centenary (100 years) Celebrations of the War Memorial Tower’s existence. It was commissioned on 15th January, 1924.
Observed on 11th November annually among Commonwealth member States, Poppy Day, also referred to as Remembrance Day, was set aside in honor of the sacrifices made by military men and women, who died in the line of duty, during the Two Major World Wars, and also other Wars.
The Malawi leader, was the first to lay a Wreath at the War Memorial Tower, in honour of the fallen heroes followed by the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Madalitso Kazombo and Deputy Chief Justice, Lovermore Chikopa SC
MDF Commander Paul Valentino Phiri, Secretary to the President and Cabinet (SPC) Colleen Zamba also laid their wreaths representing Defence Force and Civil Service respectively.
The opposition was represented by Zomba Chisi Member of Parliament, Mark Botomani.
During the ceremony,a living war veteran, Warrant Officer Class 1, Frank Masiano represented all war veterans who took part in wars by laying a wreath while Tanzanian Ambassador to Malawi, Agness Kayola represented members of the Diplomatic Corps in laying wreath.
In Lilongwe, Chakwera was represented by Youths and Sports Minister, engineer Uchizi Mkandawire while in Mzuzu, Chakwera was represented by Agriculture Minister, Pastor Sam Kawale.
Dr. Kondwani Nankhumwa, President of the Peoples Development Party (PDP), on Friday embarked on a voter registration awareness campaign in Blantyre, ahead of next year’s polls.
During his campaign, Nankhumwa met with area committees to strengthen the party’s grassroots.
In Lunzu, Chilomoni, and Macheka, he addressed supporters and sympathizers, exuding confidence that the PDP will form the next government.
Senior officials accompanied him on this outreach, which follows his recent visits to Phalombe, Chiradzulo Mulanje and Neno
As a seasoned politician and former senior cabinet minister, Nankhumwa brings a wealth of experience to the table.
He previously served as leader of opposition in Parliament.
With a strong track record in government, Nankhumwa aims to tackle poverty and unemployment, while improving Malawi’s infrastructure and education system.
His leadership skills and vision for a better Malawi have made him a formidable force in the country’s political landscape.
