​In a significant development for the United Transformation Movement, UTM, Dr. Dalitso Kabambe merged to be the winning candidate and now the new President during the party 2024 Delegates Conference held in Mzuzu on Sunday, November 17th, 2024. This consequential decision comes as the party gears up for the upcoming general elections where UTM aims to consolidate the most prominent position in the country, amongst the political elites in Malawi.
The former Governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi and a remarkable figure in Malawian politics and an academia, has been a vocal advocate for economic transformation and social justice. Dr. Kabambe has a rich background in public service besides, holding a PhD in Economics and serving in various capacities similarly, as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi during the previous DPP regime. As the Governor of the Central Bank in the country, the newly elected UTM President earned distinguished recognitions for his innovative policies towards stabilization of the dilapidated country economy.
At his Presidential inauguration addressing the UTM members, the excitement was reflected and palpable among all participating delegates, members, supporters and stakeholders representing all sectors of the UTM organization in Mzuzu, nationally and the Diaspora Region
The conference similarly, featured keynote addresses from various party leaders and members, highlighting UTM achievements since the formation and the roadmap for the future of the party. Discussions focused on strategies to enhance grassroots mobilization, improve party visibility and strengthen alliances with other political entities in the country
Dr. Kabambe appointment comes at a critical juncture as UTM seeks to build upon the existing comprehensive grassroots support and base whereas, appealing to the broader electorate. Many observers sees the coming in of Dr. Kabambe leadership as a potential game changer for the party, particularly in the organizational efforts to engage younger voters and address the major concerns facing this youthful electorate which comprises almost over 60 percent of the population in the country
The newly elected President emphasized the importance of unity within the party and called for a robust campaign strategy that prioritizes transparency and accountability. “We are committed to a new kind of politics in Malawi, one that truly reflects the voices and aspirations of our people,” he added.
As the UTM prepares for the electoral battle ahead, the party is expected to leverage Dr. Kabambe expertise and vision to navigate the complex political landscape and resonate widely with voters across board.

Reported by Elywin Chighali Mhango
Copyright Power Global Media Limited. Company Limited by Guarantee (SC547426). All Rights Reserved.

In Simon Hara village, Mzimba District, a heartfelt ceremony was held for Othaniel Hara, who had once led the Football Association of Malawi (FAM). 

Hara had a strong reputation for his work in football and dedication to helping his community, and he tragically passed away in a car accident when his vehicle overturned near Edundu in Mzimba on Saturday evening.

Many respected individuals came to the gathering, showing how deeply Hara’s life and work had touched others. 

Among those present were Minister of Defence Harry Mkandawire, former Vice-President and Freedom Party president Khumbo Kachali, current FAM vice-president Lameck Khonje, and former FAM president Walter Nyamilandu Manda. 

Hara, who died when his vehicle overturned at Edundu in Mzimba on Saturday evening, is set to be buried later this afternoon.

Reported by Ephraim Mkali Banda

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In Lilongwe, Alfred Gangata, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) deputy leader for Malawi’s central region, urged supporters to show genuine commitment, cautioning against superficial loyalty that only serves during election times. 

According to Gangata, insincere backing has led to deep issues in Malawi's political landscape. 

He expressed confidence that, under Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s leadership, the DPP has a strong chance of reclaiming power in the upcoming elections.

During the rally, Levi Luwemba, the DPP’s deputy director of electoral affairs, revealed plans for a confidential meeting with leaders from four political parties—the DPP, United Transformation Movement (UTM), Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), and United Democratic Front (UDF). 

The parties intend to address concerns with the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) over its plan to implement a voting machine for ballot counting through protest.

Luwemba criticized the MEC for seeming biased towards the machine, insisting the commission should remain impartial.

Christopher Mzomera Ngwira, the DPP’s northern region governor, voiced criticism of Lazarus Chakwera, the leader of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), accusing him of misleading the public about his intent to run in the 2025 elections.

The rally held at the Chinsapo UNICEF Ground in Lilongwe, on November,10,2024 drew significant attention, with prominent DPP members like Hon. Ben Phiri, Hon. Christopher Mzomera Ngwira, and National Youth Director Hon. Norman Chisale in attendance. 

Supporters from allied parties, UDF and AFORD, also joined, demonstrating broader backing for DPP’s vision and political agenda.

©️ Copyright Power Global Media Limited. Company Limited by Guarantee (SC547426). All Rights Reserved.

9 Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Israel is come unto me: and I have also seen the oppression wherewith the Egyptians oppress them. – Exodus 3:9
14 I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. – Psalm 139:14
12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. — 1 Timothy 6:12
On 6 July, 1974, I sat in the B and C Stand at the Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre, and was deliriously, irrationally, and frantically wild with jealousy, as our then Life President, Dr. H. Kamuzu Banda, admired and thanked the packed stands where people born after 1964, lovingly dubbed “Born Frees.” As someone that was born in captivity (innuendoes of the adoration of post-1964 Malawians) the Free Borns danced and paraded for all to see as Kamuzu waxed lyrical calling them the future leaders of Malawi. He said the country should work hard to ensure that they get all the education and training so they will adequately lead the country. Any Malawian who is 60 years and younger, is part of these Malawians, where are you? Your time has come, are you leading the affairs of Malawi.
Twenty years after fuming with jealousy (that I was not part of the country’s future leader, I bombarded the leadership arena through media work. As a de facto lead, in 1993 the newspaper I launched helped demolish the one-party dictatorship of the Malawi Congress Party under Kamuzu.After campaigns, press conferences and conferences, the Banda regime and the sole party for 30 years succumbed and gave way to a multitude of political parties; more important to the people were various freedoms like freedom of miniskirts for women, long hair and bell bottom trousers for men.
Thirty years have passed since 1993 and the fifty since 1974, where are the 50- and 60-year-old Malawians (former Born Frees)? What weigh-ins and impact are you having on the running of the affairs of the country?
Someone asked me, what did you do in your time of being a leader in the country? In response to the quest, I excitedly waxed lyrical (like Kamuzu the Lyrical Waxer in-Chief) and said apart from helping to formulate a women-friendly Constitution, many of questions I posed at press conferences yielded positive results (like female journalists on outside the country presidential trips), why the police were imprisoning the sex workers and not their clients.
But a great non-political contribution was with thanks to former late VP Justin Malewezi, former ministers Eddah Chitalo, Tim Mangwazu, George Mtafu, and civil servant Mary Shawa, and NGO operative Joyce Banda (Malawi’s former president, 2012-2014), I was part of the Malawi delegation to the 1994 Cairo Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and helped forge Malawi’s policy on abortion. The Malawi stand is agreeably more advanced to the current one in the US. Malawi policy on abortion is that while it is banned, abortion may be performed under certain circumstances such as saving the lives of mother and/or baby, and in cases of incest or rape.
The policy has helped safeguard women from dying needlessly as is the case with the strict no abortion, and doctors and health officials are not threatened with prison terms. This is possible when Malawian leaders take up issues affecting the citizenry.
Going forward, what can you Malawi’s leaders do, apart from calling on people to go out on the streets to protest a government faux pas? It is a democratic right to demonstrate, but could something more tangible be done to get the results for the better of Malawi and Malawians? Absolutely, there is; and demanding the president’s resignation is not one of them.
Malawi’s future leaders (Born Frees) of 1974 should join a political party (many have done this) and stay committed to it (don’t participate in party-jumping for cash gain), run for political positions in council or parliamentary elections (to make and change laws) and even the presidency. When in a cabinet position, help the presidency govern the country with all the sobriety, temperance, clear-headedness, and moderation such positions require.
Other options are the creation of civil society organizations/NGOs; try to make them funded with Malawi money. This is done through membership fees, making the entity a mass-based one. The source of funding being local enables your entity to avoid foreign manipulation of your NGO; there is a lot of this currently going on.
The last option being advanced here is pleading with technology-efficient young Malawians to start news media like the one started by young reporters at Swahili Nation. It is so refreshing watching the young presenters of this channel because they bring the African perspective into the narrative about Africa. The time is very ripe for Malawi media using technology to present the Malawi perspective unhampered by foreign and unfriendly to Malawi lenses.
This is the time to tell Malawi events and happenings with the heart of a Malawian. Let it be said again
·        Just because one is poor it does not mean one is unhappy
·        Just because one has not gone to school, does not mean that one does not have an opinion
·        Opinions of people are best gauged by the vote.
·        NEVER miss the opportunity to vote.
Malawian Born Frees, your time to lead has come. Let us see you!

In a landmark move to advance girls' education in Bwanje North constituency, the esteemed Deputy Minister of Education, Hon. Nancy Chawola Mdooko, Member of Parliament, is set to inaugurate a girls' hostel at Sharpe Valley Community Day Secondary School in Ntcheu district. Scheduled for the 2nd of October 2024, this initiative marks a significant leap towards providing better access to education for young girls in the region.

The unveiling of the girls' hostel not only signifies Hon. Nancy Chawola Mdooko's dedication to fostering educational opportunities but also underscores the government's commitment to bridging the educational gender gap. The hostel is poised to offer a conducive living environment for female students, encouraging their enrollment and retention in school, ultimately empowering them to pursue their academic dreams.

Brimming with enthusiasm and purpose, the Deputy Minister of Education stated, "Education is the cornerstone of progress and empowerment, and every girl deserves equal access to quality education. The launch of this girls' hostel is a step towards creating a supportive infrastructure that enables young girls to thrive academically and aspire to brighter futures."

Sharpe Valley Community Day Secondary School stands as a beacon of hope and transformation in Ntcheu district, with the inauguration of the girls' hostel poised to catalyze positive change within the local community. By fostering an environment that nurtures academic achievement and personal growth, this initiative is poised to uplift the lives of countless young girls, laying the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous society.

This unveiling ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion, symbolizing not just the physical inauguration of a building but the symbolic launch of a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come. As Hon. Nancy Chawola Mdooko leads the charge in promoting girls' education, her visionary leadership continues to inspire transformation and progress in Bwanje North constituency and beyond.

​n a landmark move to advance girls' education in Bwanje North constituency, the esteemed Deputy Minister of Education, Hon. Nancy Chawola Mdooko, Member of Parliament, is set to inaugurate a girls' hostel at Sharpe Valley Community Day Secondary School in Ntcheu district. Scheduled for the 2nd of October 2024, this initiative marks a significant leap towards providing better access to education for young girls in the region.

The unveiling of the girls' hostel not only signifies Hon. Nancy Chawola Mdooko's dedication to fostering educational opportunities but also underscores the government's commitment to bridging the educational gender gap. The hostel is poised to offer a conducive living environment for female students, encouraging their enrollment and retention in school, ultimately empowering them to pursue their academic dreams.

Brimming with enthusiasm and purpose, the Deputy Minister of Education stated, "Education is the cornerstone of progress and empowerment, and every girl deserves equal access to quality education. The launch of this girls' hostel is a step towards creating a supportive infrastructure that enables young girls to thrive academically and aspire to brighter futures."

Sharpe Valley Community Day Secondary School stands as a beacon of hope and transformation in Ntcheu district, with the inauguration of the girls' hostel poised to catalyze positive change within the local community. By fostering an environment that nurtures academic achievement and personal growth, this initiative is poised to uplift the lives of countless young girls, laying the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous society.

This unveiling ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion, symbolizing not just the physical inauguration of a building but the symbolic launch of a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come. As Hon. Nancy Chawola Mdooko leads the charge in promoting girls' education, her visionary leadership continues to inspire transformation and progress in Bwanje North constituency and beyond.

​Malawi's Minister of Education, Madalitso Kambauwa Wilima, delivered a compelling address at the prestigious G7 Italia 2024 High-Level Event, hosted at the historic Caserta Royal Palace in Italy. The theme of the summit, "Investing in Lifelong Learning for Job Creation and Resilience: A Dialogue with Africa," resonated deeply with Minister Wilima's impassioned call for strategic investments in Malawi's healthcare sector.

In her address, Minister Wilima highlighted Malawi's commitment to aligning its development goals with Malawi 2063 and the Africa Health Strategy (2016-2030), emphasizing the importance of bolstering key pillars of the healthcare system. These pillars encompass the health workforce, medical products and technologies, medical information and research, medical service delivery, health care financing, and leadership, ethics, and governance.

One of the key focal points of Minister Wilima's speech was the imperative need to enhance healthcare education by integrating vital topics, including climate change and mental health, into the curriculum. She underscored ongoing efforts to expand pre-service and in-service training for health workers, aimed at addressing critical shortages in specialist areas such as cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery, oncology, and medical diagnostics.

Moreover, Minister Wilima stressed the necessity of constructing cutting-edge educational facilities and centers of excellence in health research to facilitate the advancement of medical knowledge and innovation within Malawi.

Discussing the imperative of medical products and technologies, Minister Wilima highlighted Malawi's innovative capacity, citing the success of the "Newborn Essential Solutions and Technologies (NEST)" initiative, which has garnered acclaim for its life-saving impact on preterm infants. She emphasized the urgent need to boost Malawi's capacity to produce and maintain critical medical equipment and products, advocating for the utilization of sustainable energy solutions such as solar power to enhance healthcare service delivery, especially in rural areas.

The speech resonated strongly with the audience, drawing attention to Malawi's proactive approach to surmounting healthcare challenges through strategic investments in education, technology, and workforce development. Minister Wilima's visionary outlook set a compelling tone for fruitful dialogue and collaboration between African nations and international partners, underscoring the transformative potential of investing in lifelong learning for sustainable job creation and community resilience.

The Malawi Government, led by President Lazarus Chakwera, has eliminated immigration document requirements for citizens of 79 countries in a bid to enhance trade and tourism industries as part of efforts to bolster the country's economic activities.
In Government Notice No. 6, under the Immigration Act, Homeland Security Minister Ken Zikhale Ng'oma announced the implementation of new immigration regulations pursuant to Section 40 of the Immigration Act, exempting nationals from 79 countries from the necessity of immigration documents upon entry into Malawi.
"Visas for entry into Malawi are required by nationals of all countries except the following: Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium," reads a portion of the notice issued by the Homeland Security Minister.
Among the countries whose citizens will benefit from this exemption are Canada, China, France, Germany, Gambia, Malaysia, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Israel.
During the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Friday, February 9, 2024, President Lazarus Chakwera informed the nation that the decision to exempt citizens from these 79 countries was made to ensure accessibility to Malawi.
"What's even more exciting is the recent gazetting of the Visa waiver program I announced last year, exempting citizens of 79 countries and territories from paying Visa fees as a means to expand our access to international markets for wealth creation," President Chakwera stated.

Stepping into the New Year:
Power Global Media on 31st December 2023, Conducted an Interview with Malawian High Commissioner to Zimbabwe, His Excellency, Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole whom reflected on 2023 while focusing on 2024 Diplomatic Relations
 

1. Chilimunthaka: Can you introduce yourself to the Malawian audience?

 
H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: I am Mwayiwawo McLloyd Polepole a son born from
Traditional Authority Mkukula in Dowa District. I did my primary school at Chankhungu LEA, then my secondary school at Nkotakota Secondary School and my first degree at Chancellor College in Zomba. After college education, I started my profession at Dzenza Secondary School in the capital city of Lilongwe and then practiced my profession at different institutions, donor agencies before proceeding into the humanitarian industry as a global education advisor. 

2. Chilimunthaka: How long have you been representing Malawi's interests in Zimbabwe? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: Before I answer your question, let me take this opportunity to thank the appointing authority, Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, the President of the Republic of Malawi for appointing me to this honorable position in representing the President, the Government, and the people of Malawi here in Harare, Zimbabwe. It is indeed a great honor. I reported in Harare on November 28, 2021, so this makes it two years now. 

3. Chilimunthaka: As we conclude 2023, what notable achievements can Malawians attribute to the work of Malawi's Embassy in Zimbabwe? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: Thank you for the question. Diplomatic work is an exciting field of work. Someone said that diplomacy is like jumping into troubled waters without causing a splash. This means some of the work being done cannot be quantified nor shared but the fruits are there. However, what I can share with Malawians and those in diaspora is that the mission in Zimbabwe has represented you very well with pride and honor. During these past years we have seen some achievements in international trade. As we speak, trade between Malawi and Zimbabwe is in favor of Malawi. Malawian products are getting on very high demand in Zimbabwe. I meet several people who tell me that they do not eat any other rice other than Malawian rice. There are huge opportunities for both Zimbabweans and Malawians to improve on trade relations for mutual benefits. The mission continues getting inquiries on how Zimbabweans would like to trade with Malawi on various commodities and industries. We need to keenly open more doors and create innovative partnerships for advancement of trade between the two countries. There is a large Malawian Diaspora population in Zimbabwe. In fact, Chichewa is in the Constitution of Zimbabwe as a language. As I conclude, I need to inform Malawians that there is so much we can do between the two Nations. We need patience, persistence, and perspiration because that is an unbeatable combination for success, perhaps even more than skills, talent, and experience. Because it ain't over till it's over. What Malawians need to know and take advantage of is that both leaders; Dr. Chakwera, the President of Malawi and Dr. Mnangagwa, the President of Zimbabwe are serious about the missions between Lilongwe and Harare and therefore contemplating implementing sustainable economic diplomacy. There is so much I can share, but for today allow me to halt here. 

 4. Chilimunthaka: Considering the impact of Cyclone Freddy on Malawi in 2023 and the swift assistance from the Government of Zimbabwe, including President Mnangagwa's visit, what factors have strengthened the bilateral relationship between the two countries? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: Thanks for the question. The bilateral relations between Malawi and Zimbabwe are beyond our understanding. It is more than a bilateral relation but rather a brotherly bond. It is a web difficult to comprehend. This is why it makes it difficult to point out that the relationship between the two nations is based on diplomacy as I think, diplomacy comes in because the two countries are sovereign states. On that basis, we can talk about diplomatic relations otherwise Zimbabweans and Malawians are related by blood. I was amazed to see solemn faces when disaster hit Malawi as relatives of Zimbabweans were affected. Just imagine, President Mnangagwa addressing Malawians at a rally at the Kamuzu International Airport in Chichewa. That was not practiced. Of course, after President Chakwera declared a State of Disaster in the districts that were affected by Cyclone Freddy, I established a Disaster Emergency committee at the embassy that was headed by the Deputy Ambassador, Major General Elias Mpaso. The mission shared the communication from Malawi with different state and non-state actors. Upon hearing the news regarding the devastation, Dr. Emersion Dambudzo Mnangagwa, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe invited business personnel and government officials to the State House and raised resources in support of those affected by Cyclone Freddy in Malawi. The first consignment that left Zimbabwe was the 300 tons of mealie meal (ufa). There were ten (10) thirty tons trucks through ZIMAID that left Zimbabwe to Blantyre. ZIMAID worked very well with DoDMA and later other support came through. Some relief materials were delivered at the chancery and the mission with support from DoDMA and well-wishers dispatched some thirty-tons trucks with assorted items to Malawi. As we speak this process is still going on. You may wish to know that it takes at least quite a moment to resettle people affected by such damages caused by Cyclone Freddy. The time President Mnangangwa visited Malawi for him to assess and appreciate the damages caused, he delivered ninety (90) tons of cement and prefabs besides, other assorted materials to his brother President Dr. Chakwera as an assistance and major help in provisions of building shelters for the affected people. 
 

5. Chilimunthaka: We've learned about your office's contribution of medical equipment to Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Health. Could you elaborate on the significance of this initiative for both nations? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: You are right Chilimunthaka, when disaster hit one of the
 donors whom we have been dialoguing with until now, understand that support to help affected people as in the case of such disaster takes long. The donors dispatched an assessment team to Malawi and among many findings, they opted to support medicines and psychosocial components. They trained about 200 religious leaders with psychosocial skills and manuals.
Additionally, they found out that QECH was overwhelmed, and they offered relief doctors and medications to assist in the relief efforts. After some time, the donor provided medications and medical personnel at the time of delivery. The hospital director indicated that some of the medicines provided were out of stock and having the donations at that time was of great assistance and the hospital was grateful for all the efforts and initiative taken. DoDMA was represented by Fedson Chikuse whom witnessed the events and distribution ceremony. The delivery was made possible because Malawian Airlines whom the embassy approached, provided flight services free of charge to the embassy at Malawian Airlines costs from Harare to Blantyre. As a mission, we are grateful to Malawian Airlines for the gesture they have showed and done. The donor is currently working with Ministry of Health, DoDMA and QECH to facilitate a second consignment of medicines. The list of these needed medicines was compiled by QECH and approved by Ministry of Health while Ministry of Foreign Affairs is facilitating the process. This donation is very significant to our health sector as it provides the much-needed medical supplies of which would have required a significant time and resources from Government to supply the much-needed humanitarian reliefs, items and resources. 

6. Chilimunthaka: Reflecting on the past year, what specific initiatives has the embassy undertaken to serve the interests of Malawi? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: As the year winds up, we are very grateful that we have managed to serve Malawians in many various ways and in the new year we will be continuing doing that while improving in areas that require improvements. This time of the year as you might be aware, there will be a lot of Malawians traveling through Zimbabwe, either from South Africa or Botswana and vice versa. It’s always at this time when our Consular services are at the pick. I assure all Malawians who may need our services that we are ready and set to help in the best way we can. We only ask for those that will be traveling to make sure that they have valid travel documents and make sure they follow good health and hygiene practices as there are still some pockets of Zimbabwe affected by Cholera. During this calendar year, we had so many activities that we accomplished in which they are so numerous to mention. Let me cite a few of them. For instance, the mission continued providing support to Lindela prisoners from RSA as they transit through Zimbabwe. We celebrated the birthday of Prophet Magaya and a lot of Malawians were here to attend the events. The Lilongwe team was led by Prophet Gongwe and it was a great reunion and a very memorable time. The climax of the year was when the mission facilitated the visit of President Dr. ED Mnangagwa to Malawi end of May following the visit of the President, Dr. L.M. Chakwera to Zimbabwe when he attended a Transform Africa Summit. We also hosted several Malawi Ministers who were here in Harare for different assignments. Some of such notable events are when Dr. M. Ussi, the Minister of Natural Resources visited Victoria Falls at the invitation of the mission to attend a conference. Then Dr. Ken Zikhale Ng’oma who represented President Chakwera at the inauguration of President Mnanagwa after winning the elections that gave Dr. Mnanangwa a Second term in the Office of the President of Zimbabwe. 
 
7. Chilimunthaka: What are the upcoming plans and priorities for the Malawi High Commission in Zimbabwe in 2024? 
​
H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: As a mission, we are looking forward to 2024 as a year to consolidate the gains we have so far achieved and engage into a higher gear especially in the areas of trade. The mission will continue engaging with MDAs in Zimbabwe that have equal interests with Malawi. We are also looking forward to a midterm review of a JPCC in which we will be reviewing achievements or any deficits that may be assessed to find ways in making sure that the bilateral relations between Malawi and Zimbabwe continue to flourish. More importantly, we want to make sure that the benefits of economic diplomacy reach out to areas where needs be. We are also looking forward to advance the initiatives we have done in reaching out to many locations where there are more Malawians to sensitize them about the dual citizenship law that Malawi has ratified. Indeed, we hope we will strive to make sure that Malawi products increase on the market in Zimbabwe and promote bilateral visits between the two sovereign states. We would also like to see many other players of the economy visiting us in Harare such as journalists of your caliber to help profiling the work we are doing here in Harare and across Zimbabwe 
 
Interview formulated by Kondanani Njakwa aka Chilimunthaka – Power Global Media House Limited, Sunday, December 31st, 2023
​

Stepping into the New Year:
Power Global Media on 31st December 2023, Conducted an Interview with Malawian High Commissioner to Zimbabwe, His Excellency, Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole whom reflected on 2023 while focusing on 2024 Diplomatic Relations
 
1. Chilimunthaka: Can you introduce yourself to the audience? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: I am Mwayiwawo McLloyd Polepole a son born from
Traditional Authority Mkukula in Dowa District. I did my primary school at Chankhungu LEA, then my secondary school at Nkotakota Secondary School and my first degree at Chancellor College in Zomba. After college education, I started my profession at Dzenza Secondary School in the capital city of Lilongwe and then practiced my profession at different institutions, donor agencies before proceeding into the humanitarian industry as a global education advisor. 
 
2. Chilimunthaka: How long have you been representing Malawi's interests in Zimbabwe? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: Before I answer your question, let me take this opportunity to thank the appointing authority, Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, the President of the Republic of Malawi for appointing me to this honorable position in representing the President, the Government, and the people of Malawi here in Harare, Zimbabwe. It is indeed a great honor. I reported in Harare on November 28, 2021, so this makes it two years now. 
 
3. Chilimunthaka: As we conclude 2023, what notable achievements can Malawians attribute to the work of Malawi's Embassy in Zimbabwe? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: Thank you for the question. Diplomatic work is an exciting field of work. Someone said that diplomacy is like jumping into troubled waters without causing a splash. This means some of the work being done cannot be quantified nor shared but the fruits are there. However, what I can share with Malawians and those in diaspora is that the mission in Zimbabwe has represented you very well with pride and honor. During these past years we have seen some achievements in international trade. As we speak, trade between Malawi and Zimbabwe is in favor of Malawi. Malawian products are getting on very high demand in Zimbabwe. I meet several people who tell me that they do not eat any other rice other than Malawian rice. There are huge opportunities for both Zimbabweans and Malawians to improve on trade relations for mutual benefits. The mission continues getting inquiries on how Zimbabweans would like to trade with Malawi on various commodities and industries. We need to keenly open more doors and create innovative partnerships for advancement of trade between the two countries. There is a large Malawian Diaspora population in Zimbabwe. In fact, Chichewa is in the Constitution of Zimbabwe as a language. As I conclude, I need to inform Malawians that there is so much we can do between the two Nations. We need patience, persistence, and perspiration because that is an unbeatable combination for success, perhaps even more than skills, talent, and experience. Because it ain't over till it's over. What Malawians need to know and take advantage of is that both leaders; Dr. Chakwera, the President of Malawi and Dr. Mnangagwa, the President of Zimbabwe are serious about the missions between Lilongwe and Harare and therefore contemplating implementing sustainable economic diplomacy. There is so much I can share, but for today allow me to halt here. 
 
4. Chilimunthaka: Considering the impact of Cyclone Freddy on Malawi in 2023 and the swift assistance from the Government of Zimbabwe, including President Mnangagwa's visit, what factors have strengthened the bilateral relationship between the two countries? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: Thanks for the question. The bilateral relations between Malawi and Zimbabwe are beyond our understanding. It is more than a bilateral relation but rather a brotherly bond. It is a web difficult to comprehend. This is why it makes it difficult to point out that the relationship between the two nations is based on diplomacy as I think, diplomacy comes in because the two countries are sovereign states. On that basis, we can talk about diplomatic relations otherwise Zimbabweans and Malawians are related by blood. I was amazed to see solemn faces when disaster hit Malawi as relatives of Zimbabweans were affected. Just imagine, President Mnangagwa addressing Malawians at a rally at the Kamuzu International Airport in Chichewa. That was not practiced. Of course, after President Chakwera declared a State of Disaster in the districts that were affected by Cyclone Freddy, I established a Disaster Emergency committee at the embassy that was headed by the Deputy Ambassador, Major General Elias Mpaso. The mission shared the communication from Malawi with different state and non-state actors. Upon hearing the news regarding the devastation, Dr. Emersion Dambudzo Mnangagwa, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe invited business personnel and government officials to the State House and raised resources in support of those affected by Cyclone Freddy in Malawi. The first consignment that left Zimbabwe was the 300 tons of mealie meal (ufa). There were ten (10) thirty tons trucks through ZIMAID that left Zimbabwe to Blantyre. ZIMAID worked very well with DoDMA and later other support came through. Some relief materials were delivered at the chancery and the mission with support from DoDMA and well-wishers dispatched some thirty-tons trucks with assorted items to Malawi. As we speak this process is still going on. You may wish to know that it takes at least quiet a moment to resettle people affected by such damages caused by Cyclone Freddy. The time President Mnangangwa visited Malawi for him to assess and appreciate the damages caused, he delivered ninety (90) tons of cement and prefabs besides, other assorted materials to his brother President Dr. Chakwera as an assistance and major help in provisions of building shelters for the affected people. 
 
 
5. Chilimunthaka: We've learned about your office's contribution of medical equipment to Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Health. Could you elaborate on the significance of this initiative for both nations? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: You are right Chilimunthaka, when disaster hit one of the
 donors whom we have been dialoguing with until now, understand that support to help affected people as in the case of such disaster takes long. The donors dispatched an assessment team to Malawi and among many findings, they opted to support medicines and psychosocial components. They trained about 200 religious leaders with psychosocial skills and manuals.
Additionally, they found out that QECH was overwhelmed, and they offered relief doctors and medications to assist in the relief efforts. After some time, the donor provided medications and medical personnel at the time of delivery. The hospital director indicated that some of the medicines provided were out of stock and having the donations at that time was of great assistance and the hospital was grateful for all the efforts and initiative taken. DoDMA was represented by Fedson Chikuse whom witnessed the events and distribution ceremony. The delivery was made possible because Malawian Airlines whom the embassy approached, provided flight services free of charge to the embassy at Malawian Airlines costs from Harare to Blantyre. As a mission, we are grateful to Malawian Airlines for the gesture they have showed and done. The donor is currently working with Ministry of Health, DoDMA and QECH to facilitate a second consignment of medicines. The list of these needed medicines was compiled by QECH and approved by Ministry of Health while Ministry of Foreign Affairs is facilitating the process. This donation is very significant to our health sector as it provides the much-needed medical supplies of which would have required a significant time and resources from Government to supply the much-needed humanitarian reliefs, items and resources. 
 
6. Chilimunthaka: Reflecting on the past year, what specific initiatives has the embassy undertaken to serve the interests of Malawi? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: As the year winds up, we are very grateful that we have managed to serve Malawians in many various ways and in the new year we will be continuing doing that while improving in areas that require improvements. This time of the year as you might be aware, there will be a lot of Malawians traveling through Zimbabwe, either from South Africa or Botswana and vice versa. It’s always at this time when our Consular services are at the pick. I assure all Malawians who may need our services that we are ready and set to help in the best way we can. We only ask for those that will be traveling to make sure that they have valid travel documents and make sure they follow good health and hygiene practices as there are still some pockets of Zimbabwe affected by Cholera. During this calendar year, we had so many activities that we accomplished in which they are so numerous to mention. Let me cite a few of them. For instance, the mission continued providing support to Lindela prisoners from RSA as they transit through Zimbabwe. We celebrated the birthday of Prophet Magaya and a lot of Malawians were here to attend the events. The Lilongwe team was led by Prophet Gongwe and it was a great reunion and a very memorable time. The climax of the year was when the mission facilitated the visit of President Dr. ED Mnangagwa to Malawi end of May following the visit of the President, Dr. L.M. Chakwera to Zimbabwe when he attended a Transform Africa Summit. We also hosted several Malawi Ministers who were here in Harare for different assignments. Some of such notable events are when Dr. M. Ussi, the Minister of Natural Resources visited Victoria Falls at the invitation of the mission to attend a conference. Then Dr. Ken Zikhale Ng’oma who represented President Chakwera at the inauguration of President Mnanagwa after winning the elections that gave Dr. Mnanangwa a Second term in the Office of the President of Zimbabwe. 
 
7. Chilimunthaka: What are the upcoming plans and priorities for the Malawi High Commission in Zimbabwe in 2024? 

H.E. Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole: As a mission, we are looking forward to 2024 as a year to consolidate the gains we have so far achieved and engage into a higher gear especially in the areas of trade. The mission will continue engaging with MDAs in Zimbabwe that have equal interests with Malawi. We are also looking forward to a midterm review of a JPCC in which we will be reviewing achievements or any deficits that may be assessed to find ways in making sure that the bilateral relations between Malawi and Zimbabwe continue to flourish. More importantly, we want to make sure that the benefits of economic diplomacy reach out to areas where needs be. We are also looking forward to advance the initiatives we have done in reaching out to many locations where there are more Malawians to sensitize them about the dual citizenship law that Malawi has ratified. Indeed, we hope we will strive to make sure that Malawi products increase on the market in Zimbabwe and promote bilateral visits between the two sovereign states. We would also like to see many other players of the economy visiting us in Harare such as journalists of your caliber to help profiling the work we are doing here in Harare and across Zimbabwe 
 
Interview formulated by Kondanani Njakwa aka Chilimunthaka – Power Global Media House Limited, Sunday, December 31st, 2023

President Lazarus Chakwera on Saturday, 14th October 2023 commended the Mangochi Diocese of the Catholic Church for a great role it is playing in developing Malawi for the past 50 years it has been in existence. 

Speaking at Mangochi Stadium during the Golden Jubilee celebrations and the Silver Jubilee for three Priests for the Diocese, President Chakwera thanked the diocese for working with government in sectors of health, education, and other social welfare of the citizenry, saying as a nation Malawi stands to achieve a lot ahead of realizing 2063 vision if all Malawians can hold hands. 

Making reference to the scriptures read during the event, President Chakwera told the gathering that Malawi has the potential to set an example that other countries can emulate. 

"We should not allow to be looked at as being not important, or feel inferior. As a nation, everyone is important and has a role in achieving our developmental aspirations regardless of any affiliation. 

One reason I came here to attend the celebrations is to acknowledge the effort Diocese of Mangochi is putting in spreading the Gospel, promoting healthcare services, education, and social welfare of the common people and that together we can work hard to achieve our development agenda. 

Malawi has potential to be a good example among other people to follow. Its good for us to be doing what other people can copy from" Said President Chakwera 

He added that as a nation, Malawi can set standards of selfless people with a culture of living in unity and peace with all mankind, further urging them to take care of every resource God has blessed the country with for tourism, and to attract investors for Malawi's prosperity. 

President Chakwera then urged Malawians to exercise justice, fairness, and desist from corruption practices. 

The President has since appealed the church to continue praying for Malawi. 

In his remarks, Archbishop Montfort Sitima of Mangochi Diocese said the Diocese will continue supporting government with developments in various sectors for the benefit of the citizenry.