To Saulos Chilima and all Airtel Staff,
I write to express my dissappointment in your service provision in our area. For the past three days we have had no network in the Mulanje Muloza area. An area of around 5KM has not be able to connect to your network since December 24 from around 2pm. This means that we have not been able to make or receive calls, access the internet, send SMS, and even call your customer care service.
The worst thing is that you did not warn us of this network interruption of even acknowledge the problem through any media. You cannot say that you don't know about this problem because it has been happening in the past and your men were coming to repair what breaks down. However this has come at a very akward time when we were supposed to be communicating with friends and relatives over this festive period.
Apart from the fact that we have been affected in our personal issues, a lot of businesses have been affected because of this network. As you are aware Muloza is where Malawi borders with Mozambique and the area in question includes where there are Immigration, Police and Customs offices. As am writing these important offices have been affected in one way or another.
On behalf of thousands of people who have been affected by your poor service, I demand that you apologize to us and restore the network once for all. The world has changed and we cannot live without communicating with the rest of the world so the least we can have is a network that behaves.
Looking forward to hearing from you in either way you deem appropriate.
On behalf of Muloza residents,
Vincent Kumwenda
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Monday, November 8, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
answered prayer
Less than 24 hours ago, I wrote about the problem we are experiencing with the zain internet in Muloza. Am glad to write that we are back online.
We have been connected to the wonderful world of zain internet. We can now browse, atleast for now. Am not sure if this network is here for good, but am happy that I can access the net anytime on my HTC TYTN II and zain 3G dongle.
Thanks Zain Malawi. Thanks Saulos Chilima and staff.
We have been connected to the wonderful world of zain internet. We can now browse, atleast for now. Am not sure if this network is here for good, but am happy that I can access the net anytime on my HTC TYTN II and zain 3G dongle.
Thanks Zain Malawi. Thanks Saulos Chilima and staff.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Two weeks without zain internet in Muloza
It all started as a small problem which we all thought will last for a few hours. Zain internet just stopped working and we could not access the net on our mobile phones or dongles. A few hours turned into days, days into 2 weeks and we are still counting.
Muloza border is just over 20KM from Mulanje boma but one can access the internet at Mulanje, Chitakale and surrounding areas.
We have called Zain customer care several times getting assurance that the problem will be rectified but days are passing we still can't connect.
I was forced to buy a sim card for Zain's competitors, TNM just to be updated on various issues. At times I use Mozambican mCel sim card just to make ends meet.
I love Zain's internet because its cheaper and faster but this problem has left me wondering how serious they are. One can claim that the area am staying at is not as busy as the cities are, but be reminded that the mobile technology revolution is changing things. People are now using their mobile phones to access the internet from remote places including Muloza.
Zain Malawi please connect us to the internet for we are starving. Some of us had just subscribed to the Zain monthly data bundle but we've hardly used it.
Muloza border is just over 20KM from Mulanje boma but one can access the internet at Mulanje, Chitakale and surrounding areas.
We have called Zain customer care several times getting assurance that the problem will be rectified but days are passing we still can't connect.
I was forced to buy a sim card for Zain's competitors, TNM just to be updated on various issues. At times I use Mozambican mCel sim card just to make ends meet.
I love Zain's internet because its cheaper and faster but this problem has left me wondering how serious they are. One can claim that the area am staying at is not as busy as the cities are, but be reminded that the mobile technology revolution is changing things. People are now using their mobile phones to access the internet from remote places including Muloza.
Zain Malawi please connect us to the internet for we are starving. Some of us had just subscribed to the Zain monthly data bundle but we've hardly used it.
Friday, October 15, 2010
More respect to my mum
I called her this morning just to wish her a happy mothers day. She was happy as always reminding me to work hard.
She worked hard to raise us amidst the many problems she met along the way. She made sure that we go to school and was very worried if we din't do well in class.
What stuck in my mind is the time she started selling mandasi to raise money for my transport. I was doing my secondary school at Zingwangwa Secondary while we were staying in Machinjiri. I had to take 4 minbuses a day to and from school which was quite expensive. But mum managed to pay for all this.
This day reminds me all the goodies that my mum has done for me and my relatives. I also value what other mothers and women have done to us. The world would have been a dull place without women.
Apart from my mum (anyanduna) I also salute my mum's sister (Aunt Bella), all the ankhazi and Mrs Malemia. Happy Mothers day!!!
She worked hard to raise us amidst the many problems she met along the way. She made sure that we go to school and was very worried if we din't do well in class.
What stuck in my mind is the time she started selling mandasi to raise money for my transport. I was doing my secondary school at Zingwangwa Secondary while we were staying in Machinjiri. I had to take 4 minbuses a day to and from school which was quite expensive. But mum managed to pay for all this.
This day reminds me all the goodies that my mum has done for me and my relatives. I also value what other mothers and women have done to us. The world would have been a dull place without women.
Apart from my mum (anyanduna) I also salute my mum's sister (Aunt Bella), all the ankhazi and Mrs Malemia. Happy Mothers day!!!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Radio Week on Transworld Radio Malawi
From Sunday the 26th of September to Sunday 3rd of October 2010 Trans World Radio (TWR) Malawi will commemorate Radio Week. The purpose of this special week is to raise public awareness of TWR work in order to mobilize increased support in the areas of prayer, finance and practical involvement.
The theme for the week is "Take Responsibility, TWR belongs to you."
Activities for the Radio Week include:
Special Radio Programs throughout the week.
Church visits: Some TWR representatives will visit Churches on Sundays 26th September, Saturday 2nd and 3rd October 2010.
Talent show which will gather together talented musicians, TWR Drama Group, etc.
Sell of CDs of different programs
Friends-Raising which will include sharing as much info about TWR as possible through all possible channels.
How can you be involved in Radio Week?
Listen to TWR,
Trans World Radio will run many special programmes giving the listener the chance to know more about the station, the programmes, issues, the people, etc
Listeners will be able to ask any questions about TWR and attempts will be made to answer all the questions.
Praying for TWR Work in Malawi
Watch out for Radio Week Prayer Point in the morning from Sunday 26th Sept to Sunday 3rd October .
Listeners can arrange their own prayer group to meet and pray daily for the work of TWR guided by these prayer requests.
Giving
Trans World Radio Malawi is a local ministry and has to raise most of its finances locally. Do you want to make one time donation? We need resources for a number of needs like production of programs, maintenance of our transmitters, administration costs and many more.
Churches are asked for special collection on any of the worship days.
Bank Details are: Trans World Radio Special Appeal Account: 0133570253500, Savings Account, National Bank of Malawi, Lilongwe Branch. You can also use Standard Bank 0121205347400, Savings Account, Lilongwe
Involvement:
If you have a testimony of what God has done to you through TWR, you can let us know via sms, email, and fax or simply visit our offices in Lilongwe (Area 3) and Blantyre (in CLAIM Building).
For more details, call 01756642/01 756 644. SMS only on 0888500222 or fax us on 01 751 870. You can also send an e-mail to radio@twrmw.org.
Remember its Radio Week for Trans World Radio beginning 26th September 3rd October 2010…..
Be part of this special week!!!
...........................
Credit to Victor Kaonga for sharing the information.
Is Nyasa Times still moderating comments?
Of late i have observed with keen interest the comments readers post on Nyasa Times. Alot of them are not supposed to be published if the site knew the damage they can bring to the peaceful nation.
As a democratic country we have freedom to say whatever we can say but we also have a responsibility to control what we are saying. Nyasa Times is becoming popular with many Malawians as it is fond of giving us breaking news. But the comments readers are making are worrying me.
You will find obscene, tribal and unrelated comments. As much as we all need to hear people's views on some topics, people need to control waht they say. It is also the duty of Nyasa Times to moderate debate on their popular site.
A few years ago a comment took time to be published after a reader posted it and you could not find obscene comments. Things have changed over the years. I understand that some of the comments have something to do with lost of trust in the ruling party. But that does not justify insults to the Munthalika family or any other person featured on Nyasa Times.
As a democratic country we have freedom to say whatever we can say but we also have a responsibility to control what we are saying. Nyasa Times is becoming popular with many Malawians as it is fond of giving us breaking news. But the comments readers are making are worrying me.
You will find obscene, tribal and unrelated comments. As much as we all need to hear people's views on some topics, people need to control waht they say. It is also the duty of Nyasa Times to moderate debate on their popular site.
A few years ago a comment took time to be published after a reader posted it and you could not find obscene comments. Things have changed over the years. I understand that some of the comments have something to do with lost of trust in the ruling party. But that does not justify insults to the Munthalika family or any other person featured on Nyasa Times.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
BROWSING MADE SIMPLE WITH ZAIN 3G
Zain Malawi which will soon rebrand to Airtel has simplified accessing the internet through its newly launched Zain Broadband. Apart from launching 3G on 15th September, Zain also moved to a new billing system.
The Zain broadband has the following three services:
1. ZAIN@PHONE
Using this package internet now lives on your phone. You can now have access to any website, your webmail on your cell phone and all the information on the internet – whenever and wherever you need it!
With Zain@Phone you can access the net through three different pricing packages:
Zain Daily: This will provide you with 20MB of data to use a day at a give away price of MK80. To subscribe call *301*1#
Zain Weekly : This provides you with 200MB of data to use over a 7 days period at a give away price of MK700 only. To subscribe call *301*2#
Zain Starter : This will provide you with 500MB of data to use over a 30days period at MK1600. To subscribe call *301*3#
2. ZAIN E-GO
Use a Zain 3G Modem to connect to the internet. They have a variety of wireless devices to provide fast and high quality 3G with HSDPA+, EDGE, and GPRS. Buy the Huwaei E1550 USB modem at MK7900 and the Huwaei E1800 USB modem at MK 11,500. These devices can be found in all the Zain shops in Blantyre, Lilongwe and Mzuzu.
The pricing packages for Zain E-GO are:
Zain Starter: This will provide you with 500MB of data to use over 30 days period at MK1600. To subscribe call *301*3#
Zain Lite: This will provide you with 3GB of data to use over a 30 day period at MK2560. To subscribe call *301*4#
Zain Plus: This will provide you with 5GB of data to use over a 30 day period at MK10000. To subscribe call *301*5#
Zain Max: This provide will you with 10GB of data to use over a 30 day period at MK12000. To subscribe call *301*6#
3. ZAIN@HOME
High speed internet access at home for the whole family and business. Access the internet using Huawei B970b 3G router with WIFI. The modem has dual working modes of wireless gateway and USB. You can find Huwaei B970b in all the Zain shops in Lilongwe, Blantyre and Mzuzu. This package comes with a Zain prepaid SIM card with preloaded 1GB free data , Installation CD, Ethernet and power cable.
The pricing details for Zain@Home are:
Zain Starter: This will provide you with 500MB of data to use over 30 days period at MK1600. To subscribe call *301*3#
Zain Lite: This will provide you with 3GB of data to use over a 30 day period at MK2560. To subscribe call *301*4#
Zain Plus: This will provide you with 5GB of data to use over a 30 day period at MK10000. To subscribe call *301*5#
Zain Max: This provide will you with 10GB of data to use over a 30 day period at MK12000. To subscribe call *301*6#
For more information you can call 177 from your Zain Cellphone or visit their website
Monday, August 9, 2010
Malawi President reshuffles his cabinet
The Malawi President has reshuffled his cabinet. Here is a list of the new cabinet as announced on MBC TV and various radios:
The State President:
His Excellency Ngwazi Professor Bingu wa Mutharika
*Commander in Chief: Malawi Defense Force: Malawi Police Service
*The Greenbelt Irrigation Program
*The Nsanje World In-land Port
*Statutory Corporation Policy Direction
*The Civil Service
*The National Food Reserve Agency-NFRA
*The Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation-Admarc
The First Lady: Her Excellency Madam Callista Mutharika
*Maternal, Infant and Child Health; Safe Motherhood.
Vice President: Right Honorable Mrs. Joyce Banda
*HIV and Aids Coordination; TB and Malaria Program
*National Relief and Disasters Management
MINISTERS
1. Deputy Minister for Presidential Affairs: Honorable Nicholas Dausi MP
Government Ministries:
Ministry of Education, Science and Technology:
1. Minister; Professor Peter Arthur Mutharika, MP
2. Deputy; Higher Education; Oteria Moyo Jere, MP
3. Deputy; Primary and Secondary Education; Victor Sarjeni, MP
Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
4. Minister; Professor Etta Elizabeth Banda, MP
5. Deputy; Stafford Kamwendo, MP
Ministry of Finance:
6. Minister; Ken Edward Kandodo, MP
7. Deputy; Freza Nkhoma Nihoria, MP
Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security:
8. Minister; Professor Peter Mwanza, MP
9. Deputy; Maggrate Mauwa, MP
Ministry of Justice, Constitutional Affairs:
10. Minister; George Thapatula Chaponda
Ministry of Development Planning and Corporation:
11. Minister; Abbie Malambika Shawa, MP
12. Deputy; Daniel Sipuliyana Liwimbi, MP
Ministry of Transport, Public Infrastructure:
13. Minister; Sidik Mia, MP
14. Deputy; MaCJonesMandala Shawa, MP
Ministry of Irrigation, Water Development:
15. Minister; Richie Biswick Muheya, MP
16. Deputy; Grenenga Msulira Banda, MP
Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development:
17. Minister; Anna Namathanga Kachikho, MP
18. Deputy; Francis Lazaro Kasaira, MP
Ministry of Industry and Trade:
19. Minister; Eunice Kazembe, MP
20. Deputy; Shadreck Jonasi, MP
Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development:
21. Minister; John Bande, MP
22. Deputy; Billy Kaunda, MP
Ministry of Gender, Child Development and Community Development:
23. Minister; Tereza Gloria Mwale, MP
24. Deputy; Catherine Gotani Hara, MP
Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture:
25. Minister; Ken Lipenga, MP
26. Deputy ; Augustine Mtendere, MP
Ministry of Labour:
27. Minister; Yunus Mussa
Ministry of Youth Development and Sports:
28. Minister; Luciuos Grandson Kanyumba, MP
29. Deputy; Charles Mchacha, MP
Ministry of Health
30. Minister ; Professor Daved Kapererera Mphande, MP
31. Deputy; Felton Mulli, MP
Ministry of Internal Affairs and Public Security:
32. Minister; Aaron Sangala, MP
33. Deputy; Annie Lemani, MP
Ministry of National Defense:
34. Minister; Leckford Thotho, MP
Ministry of Information and Civic Education:
35. Minister; Vuwa Simone Kaunda, MP
36. Deputy; Tarsizio Thumi Gowelo, MP
Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy and Environment:
37. Minister; Greay Wyson Malunga
38. Deputy; Ephraim Ganda Chiume, MP
Ministry of Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly:
39. Minister; Reen Bessie Kachere,MP
40. Deputy; Chimango Chipimpha Mughogho,MP
Notable names that have been dropped include : Hon. Patricia Kaliati, Hon Goodall Edward Gondwe, Professor Moses Chirambo and Hon. Khumbo Kachali.
Hon. Ken Lipenga and Vuwa Kaunda bounces back into the cabinet while Professor David Mphande is one of the new faces in this cabinet.
The new cabinet will be sworn in on Wednesday at the Sanjika Palace in Blantyre.
The State President:
His Excellency Ngwazi Professor Bingu wa Mutharika
*Commander in Chief: Malawi Defense Force: Malawi Police Service
*The Greenbelt Irrigation Program
*The Nsanje World In-land Port
*Statutory Corporation Policy Direction
*The Civil Service
*The National Food Reserve Agency-NFRA
*The Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation-Admarc
The First Lady: Her Excellency Madam Callista Mutharika
*Maternal, Infant and Child Health; Safe Motherhood.
Vice President: Right Honorable Mrs. Joyce Banda
*HIV and Aids Coordination; TB and Malaria Program
*National Relief and Disasters Management
MINISTERS
1. Deputy Minister for Presidential Affairs: Honorable Nicholas Dausi MP
Government Ministries:
Ministry of Education, Science and Technology:
1. Minister; Professor Peter Arthur Mutharika, MP
2. Deputy; Higher Education; Oteria Moyo Jere, MP
3. Deputy; Primary and Secondary Education; Victor Sarjeni, MP
Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
4. Minister; Professor Etta Elizabeth Banda, MP
5. Deputy; Stafford Kamwendo, MP
Ministry of Finance:
6. Minister; Ken Edward Kandodo, MP
7. Deputy; Freza Nkhoma Nihoria, MP
Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security:
8. Minister; Professor Peter Mwanza, MP
9. Deputy; Maggrate Mauwa, MP
Ministry of Justice, Constitutional Affairs:
10. Minister; George Thapatula Chaponda
Ministry of Development Planning and Corporation:
11. Minister; Abbie Malambika Shawa, MP
12. Deputy; Daniel Sipuliyana Liwimbi, MP
Ministry of Transport, Public Infrastructure:
13. Minister; Sidik Mia, MP
14. Deputy; MaCJonesMandala Shawa, MP
Ministry of Irrigation, Water Development:
15. Minister; Richie Biswick Muheya, MP
16. Deputy; Grenenga Msulira Banda, MP
Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development:
17. Minister; Anna Namathanga Kachikho, MP
18. Deputy; Francis Lazaro Kasaira, MP
Ministry of Industry and Trade:
19. Minister; Eunice Kazembe, MP
20. Deputy; Shadreck Jonasi, MP
Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development:
21. Minister; John Bande, MP
22. Deputy; Billy Kaunda, MP
Ministry of Gender, Child Development and Community Development:
23. Minister; Tereza Gloria Mwale, MP
24. Deputy; Catherine Gotani Hara, MP
Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture:
25. Minister; Ken Lipenga, MP
26. Deputy ; Augustine Mtendere, MP
Ministry of Labour:
27. Minister; Yunus Mussa
Ministry of Youth Development and Sports:
28. Minister; Luciuos Grandson Kanyumba, MP
29. Deputy; Charles Mchacha, MP
Ministry of Health
30. Minister ; Professor Daved Kapererera Mphande, MP
31. Deputy; Felton Mulli, MP
Ministry of Internal Affairs and Public Security:
32. Minister; Aaron Sangala, MP
33. Deputy; Annie Lemani, MP
Ministry of National Defense:
34. Minister; Leckford Thotho, MP
Ministry of Information and Civic Education:
35. Minister; Vuwa Simone Kaunda, MP
36. Deputy; Tarsizio Thumi Gowelo, MP
Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy and Environment:
37. Minister; Greay Wyson Malunga
38. Deputy; Ephraim Ganda Chiume, MP
Ministry of Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly:
39. Minister; Reen Bessie Kachere,MP
40. Deputy; Chimango Chipimpha Mughogho,MP
Notable names that have been dropped include : Hon. Patricia Kaliati, Hon Goodall Edward Gondwe, Professor Moses Chirambo and Hon. Khumbo Kachali.
Hon. Ken Lipenga and Vuwa Kaunda bounces back into the cabinet while Professor David Mphande is one of the new faces in this cabinet.
The new cabinet will be sworn in on Wednesday at the Sanjika Palace in Blantyre.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Some Malawian leaders like politicking than initiating development
I know that the headline is too strong for some people to digest but those that follow Malawi politics closely will agree with me. Malawi is just coming out of the 2009 elections in which the current President, Prof. Bingu wa Mutharika won with a majority. As a development concious Malawian, I thought that we now have a government which will develop Malawi now that it has been given the mandate. But with just a year gone, what we see is a party, which was supposed to back the President in initiating development, spending much time politicking and wasting time in campaigning for the 2014 elections.
In a layman's point of view, after elections, the country has to rally behind the winner and move forward. Campaigning for elections officially starts a few months before the elections. The debate taking place in the DPP is not healthy for development of a nation. Party leaders are very much worried of who will replace the current President in 2014 than what a majority of Malawians need in their day to day lives.
What worries most are the speeches coming out of these leaders, instead of building the nation we are being divided according to our gender, race, tribe and religion. The usual mudslinging that characterises campaign period are what we are witnessing. Using the public brodcaster to castigate possible threats to their desired candidate. Other leaders who could have contributed to the development are being frustrated and some are sidelined in making important decisions.
I understand that people in the village needs what they were promised in the run up to the 2009 elections. In Phalombe, people want when their road will be finished. In Nsanje expectations are high for the road projects, the port and many other things they were promised. Its not the right time to worry about who will replace the incumbent president when they don't know what they will eat for the coming days.
Am happy that Malawi has a visionary leader who wants to transform the nation. He still has four years to carry out his projects. He has been praised in the whole world for making Malawi a model in food security. Thinking about who will replace him now is not the right thing to do. I believe he will be distracted from what he is doing for the country.
There are some leaders who just want to be politicking everyday of their lives. They don't understand they were chosen to serve Malawians and initiate development and not lord over them. In democracy, leaders need to implement what people want.
Malawi is a big nation therefore its destiny cannot be decided by a few individuals. That's why we have elections every five years to decide who we want to lead us. We have vivid examples of what happened to leaders who wanted to impose things on Malawians. This crop of leadership is not exceptional.Whatever Malawians will not like in the years before 2014 will be decided by the ballot.
In a layman's point of view, after elections, the country has to rally behind the winner and move forward. Campaigning for elections officially starts a few months before the elections. The debate taking place in the DPP is not healthy for development of a nation. Party leaders are very much worried of who will replace the current President in 2014 than what a majority of Malawians need in their day to day lives.
What worries most are the speeches coming out of these leaders, instead of building the nation we are being divided according to our gender, race, tribe and religion. The usual mudslinging that characterises campaign period are what we are witnessing. Using the public brodcaster to castigate possible threats to their desired candidate. Other leaders who could have contributed to the development are being frustrated and some are sidelined in making important decisions.
I understand that people in the village needs what they were promised in the run up to the 2009 elections. In Phalombe, people want when their road will be finished. In Nsanje expectations are high for the road projects, the port and many other things they were promised. Its not the right time to worry about who will replace the incumbent president when they don't know what they will eat for the coming days.
Am happy that Malawi has a visionary leader who wants to transform the nation. He still has four years to carry out his projects. He has been praised in the whole world for making Malawi a model in food security. Thinking about who will replace him now is not the right thing to do. I believe he will be distracted from what he is doing for the country.
There are some leaders who just want to be politicking everyday of their lives. They don't understand they were chosen to serve Malawians and initiate development and not lord over them. In democracy, leaders need to implement what people want.
Malawi is a big nation therefore its destiny cannot be decided by a few individuals. That's why we have elections every five years to decide who we want to lead us. We have vivid examples of what happened to leaders who wanted to impose things on Malawians. This crop of leadership is not exceptional.Whatever Malawians will not like in the years before 2014 will be decided by the ballot.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Unfair World
I see them everyday at my work place selling different kinds of things. As young as seven, who can hardly give you the right amount of change, are selling us bananas, cooked maize and sugarcanes. They wake up very early and walk to various areas to sell the things sent by their parents.
Some have even stopped going to school because of various reasons but mainly their parents too poor to take care of them. So they are sent to sell these foods to find their daily needs. I have managed to talk to some of them who narrated very sad stories about their families. Life is unfair.
The word 'unfair world' keeps coming to mind when I see them everyday. I always try to engange them in conversation to hear them out. They all have stories to tell. Even their parents are able to tell me why they send them to the streets. They are convinced that that's the only way.
One example is of a thirteen year old girl called Maggie who has just started selling cooked maize near our office. I talked to her several times. She has just written the Primary School Leaving examinations and in search for money to pay for secondary education, her parents sent her to do business. She seems to like this idea.
But the streets are not a safe place for a 13yr old who has to travel a long distance to her home in the evening. We read in papers of 8yr olds who are raped right in their homes. What more with a 13yr old who is looking money to make ends meet? Life is unfair.
I feel sorry for them everday. I try to help where I can but they just keep coming. You can see it in the way they dress, the food they eat and the life they live.
Some have even stopped going to school because of various reasons but mainly their parents too poor to take care of them. So they are sent to sell these foods to find their daily needs. I have managed to talk to some of them who narrated very sad stories about their families. Life is unfair.
The word 'unfair world' keeps coming to mind when I see them everyday. I always try to engange them in conversation to hear them out. They all have stories to tell. Even their parents are able to tell me why they send them to the streets. They are convinced that that's the only way.
One example is of a thirteen year old girl called Maggie who has just started selling cooked maize near our office. I talked to her several times. She has just written the Primary School Leaving examinations and in search for money to pay for secondary education, her parents sent her to do business. She seems to like this idea.
But the streets are not a safe place for a 13yr old who has to travel a long distance to her home in the evening. We read in papers of 8yr olds who are raped right in their homes. What more with a 13yr old who is looking money to make ends meet? Life is unfair.
I feel sorry for them everday. I try to help where I can but they just keep coming. You can see it in the way they dress, the food they eat and the life they live.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Fruits ripening chemicals are a health hazard
There is a tendency of using unknown chemicals in ripening fruits in Mulanje and other surrounding area that puts people's lives at risk. Almost all fruits, especially bananas, are soaked into these colourless chemical to reduce the normal time it takes to ripe. Bananas take two days to ripe.
I have talked to several people who use and some who sell these chemicals and have confessed that they are making money out of this because they time of waiting for the fruits to ripe is reduced. They all agreed that they are not sure of the side effects the chemicals have on people.
An effort to establish the real name of the chemicals proved futile as most people don't know. But it was established that they are smuggled out of tea estates where they are used to control pests. They are then diluted and locally packed in plastic tubes for sale in roadsides.
Some consumers have complained that thes chemicals might affect them because fruits are consumed in large numbers. I have talked to Agriculture and Health Officials which admited knowledge of this problem but were not able to tell me what is being done to deal with this.
Apart from bananas, pineapples are another fruit that this chemical is used to ripen. Keep this in mind when you buy fruits at Minimini or Limbuli market.
I have talked to several people who use and some who sell these chemicals and have confessed that they are making money out of this because they time of waiting for the fruits to ripe is reduced. They all agreed that they are not sure of the side effects the chemicals have on people.
An effort to establish the real name of the chemicals proved futile as most people don't know. But it was established that they are smuggled out of tea estates where they are used to control pests. They are then diluted and locally packed in plastic tubes for sale in roadsides.
Some consumers have complained that thes chemicals might affect them because fruits are consumed in large numbers. I have talked to Agriculture and Health Officials which admited knowledge of this problem but were not able to tell me what is being done to deal with this.
Apart from bananas, pineapples are another fruit that this chemical is used to ripen. Keep this in mind when you buy fruits at Minimini or Limbuli market.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Give Jumani a chance !! Go for the DNA test
He might not have used a good way to trace his roots but the man has a right to know who his real father is. Jim Jumani Johansson is right in every way to know the truth about his background.
From what we have been reading in the press throughout the week, there is something sinister surrounding the partenity of this man who claims to be Kamuzu's son. To make matters worse, the responses we are getting from the Kamuzu family are not assuring at all. Instead of giving answers they are bringing more questions that needs to be answered.
What Malawians need to know is the truth behind the family of the first President of independent Malawi not what we are being told at present. For a long time some people have controlled what we are to know about Kamuzu. There has been conflicting accounts about his life. Many who were close to him choose to be silent about his life. We expected that men like John Tembo will write books about him. Even Cecelia Kazamira who we are told was his long time confidant is yet to tell the nation what she knows about his life.
It is because of these and many other reasons that will make Malawians to believe what Johansson is claiming that some people were paid to keep qiute on issues regarding Kamuzu's life.
As much as we all know that Kamuzu was very strict in doing things and would not have tolerated what is being said now, people should realise that times have changed. We now have freedom of speech. These people should now speak the truth and let the world hear it.
This is our history. It belongs to all Malawians. We know that some people had been controlling our history for a long time. Remember there was government which changed things bearing the name Kamuzu.They forgot that governments change!
I ask the family of Kamuzu to go for the DNA test and establish the truth surrounding the life of the Kamuzu. These things should be settled once for
all. I find it hard to believe that a man who is was trained as a Psychologist by Stockholm University can just lose his senses and come to a poor African nation and claim to be a son of its former president. Its time people accepted that Kamuzu was only human and could have fathered a child at one time in his life.
From what we have been reading in the press throughout the week, there is something sinister surrounding the partenity of this man who claims to be Kamuzu's son. To make matters worse, the responses we are getting from the Kamuzu family are not assuring at all. Instead of giving answers they are bringing more questions that needs to be answered.
What Malawians need to know is the truth behind the family of the first President of independent Malawi not what we are being told at present. For a long time some people have controlled what we are to know about Kamuzu. There has been conflicting accounts about his life. Many who were close to him choose to be silent about his life. We expected that men like John Tembo will write books about him. Even Cecelia Kazamira who we are told was his long time confidant is yet to tell the nation what she knows about his life.
It is because of these and many other reasons that will make Malawians to believe what Johansson is claiming that some people were paid to keep qiute on issues regarding Kamuzu's life.
As much as we all know that Kamuzu was very strict in doing things and would not have tolerated what is being said now, people should realise that times have changed. We now have freedom of speech. These people should now speak the truth and let the world hear it.
This is our history. It belongs to all Malawians. We know that some people had been controlling our history for a long time. Remember there was government which changed things bearing the name Kamuzu.They forgot that governments change!
I ask the family of Kamuzu to go for the DNA test and establish the truth surrounding the life of the Kamuzu. These things should be settled once for
all. I find it hard to believe that a man who is was trained as a Psychologist by Stockholm University can just lose his senses and come to a poor African nation and claim to be a son of its former president. Its time people accepted that Kamuzu was only human and could have fathered a child at one time in his life.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Kamuzu Banda had a son?
All this time we have lived to believe that Malawi's first president, Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda was not married and had no children. But 13 years after his death a 37 year old man is claiming to be the son of the former ruler.
Jim Jumani Johansson advertised in Sunday Times that he want to change his name to Emmanuel Masauko Kamuzu Banda because he is the son of the late Kamuzu.
Every patriotic Malawian is keenly following the events as they unfold to solve the mystrey that surrounds the history of the Father and founder of the Malawi nation.
As expected the family is challenging the claims and some have even called Johansson as an impostor but its too early to conclude. a sane person cannot just come and claim to be someone's son.
Malawians have been calling for people who were close to the former President to write books on what they know about Kamuzu's life. For now we keep our fingers crossed and waiting to see how things will progress.
There are fears that Johansson is just here to find a way of taking over Kamuzu's wealth but he has refused this. He says he is ready to go for DNA test to prove his claims.
Johansson was staying and working in Sweden and he claims to have discovered that he is Kamuzu's son a few years ago.
Jim Jumani Johansson advertised in Sunday Times that he want to change his name to Emmanuel Masauko Kamuzu Banda because he is the son of the late Kamuzu.
Every patriotic Malawian is keenly following the events as they unfold to solve the mystrey that surrounds the history of the Father and founder of the Malawi nation.
As expected the family is challenging the claims and some have even called Johansson as an impostor but its too early to conclude. a sane person cannot just come and claim to be someone's son.
Malawians have been calling for people who were close to the former President to write books on what they know about Kamuzu's life. For now we keep our fingers crossed and waiting to see how things will progress.
There are fears that Johansson is just here to find a way of taking over Kamuzu's wealth but he has refused this. He says he is ready to go for DNA test to prove his claims.
Johansson was staying and working in Sweden and he claims to have discovered that he is Kamuzu's son a few years ago.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
How independence day was celebrated in Muloza, Mulanje
There were people everywhere. Clad in their Sunday best clothes, they walked around the streets of the not-so-busy trading centre of Limbuli. With bottles of minerals and beer, they celebrated in a christmas style the 46 years of independence.
Thats how people celebrated Republic day in Muloza a border town in Mulanje. People always look for a reason to celebrate and 6th July gives that reason. As am writing this post there are still parties going on in various houses and people have thronged drinking joints finishing off the celebration.
I had a chat with several people who told me that people here take an example of how republic day and every holiday in neighbouring Mozambique is celebrating. There is alot of merrymaking in days like these and alot of Malawians cross the border to join their neighbours.
Am told families bought rice, chicken and many favourite foods to spice up the day in their homes. It was my first time to see 6th July celebrated in this way.
The main celebrations were held at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe where there was a display of various traditional dances, poetry, speeches, awarding outstanding Malawians in various fields and a football match between Malawi Reserve and Lesotho. Malawi won by a goal scored by Panganani Ndovie.
Happy independence day!!
Thats how people celebrated Republic day in Muloza a border town in Mulanje. People always look for a reason to celebrate and 6th July gives that reason. As am writing this post there are still parties going on in various houses and people have thronged drinking joints finishing off the celebration.
I had a chat with several people who told me that people here take an example of how republic day and every holiday in neighbouring Mozambique is celebrating. There is alot of merrymaking in days like these and alot of Malawians cross the border to join their neighbours.
Am told families bought rice, chicken and many favourite foods to spice up the day in their homes. It was my first time to see 6th July celebrated in this way.
The main celebrations were held at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe where there was a display of various traditional dances, poetry, speeches, awarding outstanding Malawians in various fields and a football match between Malawi Reserve and Lesotho. Malawi won by a goal scored by Panganani Ndovie.
Happy independence day!!
Malawi: 46 years of independence
All roads lead to Civo Stadium in Lilongwe where the President will lead the nation in commerating 46 years of Malawi's independence.
On this day in 1964, a new nation was born under the leadership of the late Hastings Kamuzu Banda. History records that Malawians celebrated the independence from our colonial masters, the British.
Since then, Malawi has seen alot of changes under the three different administrations. There are alot of positives to write about but the most important is the peace we are enjoying up to this day.
The theme for this year's celebration is 'growing a stronger nation together'. A good thing to do at this time as we are passing through challenging times as a united nation. We seem to be divided on petty issues.
Much as we celebrate that we have made strides in various areas over the 46 years, there are some areas we need to work on. The time we have been independent from the British does not reflect the development we have.
On this day in 1964, a new nation was born under the leadership of the late Hastings Kamuzu Banda. History records that Malawians celebrated the independence from our colonial masters, the British.
Since then, Malawi has seen alot of changes under the three different administrations. There are alot of positives to write about but the most important is the peace we are enjoying up to this day.
The theme for this year's celebration is 'growing a stronger nation together'. A good thing to do at this time as we are passing through challenging times as a united nation. We seem to be divided on petty issues.
Much as we celebrate that we have made strides in various areas over the 46 years, there are some areas we need to work on. The time we have been independent from the British does not reflect the development we have.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Zain Malawi SMService down
For the past two weeks it has not been possible to send texts on the Zain Malawi network. Just some lucky few are able to send sms.
I called the customer care who admitted that they are aware that sms service is done. The agent assured me that the problem will be rectified the next day. I still can't send texts after a week.
At first i thought it is only Mulanje that is having the problem as it is the case with other network problems. But i found out that it is the same in other areas.
Zain Malawi subscribers have been experiencing alot of problems in recent times. Hope thing will change with the coming in of Bharti Airtel Group.
I called the customer care who admitted that they are aware that sms service is done. The agent assured me that the problem will be rectified the next day. I still can't send texts after a week.
At first i thought it is only Mulanje that is having the problem as it is the case with other network problems. But i found out that it is the same in other areas.
Zain Malawi subscribers have been experiencing alot of problems in recent times. Hope thing will change with the coming in of Bharti Airtel Group.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Malawi Parliament passes a bill to change flag
What most Malawians feared came to pass a few hours ago when the National Assembly passed a bill to allow government change the national flag. This happened disregarding calls from the opposition who claimed that the consultations were not enough.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Chilemba deserves special recognition
It is not everyday that we have Malawians making headlines on the international scene for good reasons. One young man, Isaac Chilemba, has made it on top of the boxing news for winning the International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Supermiddle weight title after beating an Australian Challenger, Micheal Bolling.
The 23 year old Chilemba is a Malawian born boxer based in South Africa. He is not new on the boxing stage having won two African titles under World Boxing Council and African Boxing Union.
Though boxing is not my everyday meat, i took time to watch the bout broadcast live on SuperSport 5 simply because it involved my fellow countryman. The guy was just superb and was very confident in the ring.
The last time Chilemba won a belt, he wanted to seek an audience with the President, Prof. Bingu wa Mutharika but he was frustrated along the way. Now that he has won an international belt, i feel it is right if he is given a chance to meet the State President and show him the belts. He has done us proud.
Coming from a nation which is not always doing good in the sports area, Chilemba has written a new chapter in the history of sports in Malawi. Congratulations boy!!
The 23 year old Chilemba is a Malawian born boxer based in South Africa. He is not new on the boxing stage having won two African titles under World Boxing Council and African Boxing Union.
Though boxing is not my everyday meat, i took time to watch the bout broadcast live on SuperSport 5 simply because it involved my fellow countryman. The guy was just superb and was very confident in the ring.
The last time Chilemba won a belt, he wanted to seek an audience with the President, Prof. Bingu wa Mutharika but he was frustrated along the way. Now that he has won an international belt, i feel it is right if he is given a chance to meet the State President and show him the belts. He has done us proud.
Coming from a nation which is not always doing good in the sports area, Chilemba has written a new chapter in the history of sports in Malawi. Congratulations boy!!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
3 things am addicted to
Its 3am in Malawi and am still awake doing either of the three things i like doing. I can go on doing it until time to go to work.
I like browsing the net on my cellphone, watching a movie or reading a novel. Am seriously addicted to these three that a day cannot pass without doing one or all three.
Reading novels dates back to my secondary school days when i was introduced to african writers series and pacesetters. Now am used to read thrillers from best selling authours like; Tom Clancy, Clive Cussler, Robert Ludlum, Vince Flynn and Judith Kruntz. In fact i enjoy series with one hero like Cussler's Dirk Pitt, Clancy's Mike Rodgers and Jack Ryan.
I use every possible moment to browse on my phone. Its either am on Twitter or am reading various blogs especially Mashable. The only setback is when i don't have airtime.
I've learnt to respect time for my paid job and i don't mess up with it but internet is very tempting at times.
Working outside urban areas also works to my advantage. I go straight home to my television, novel or mobile internet when friends are going out. Am currently watching the series (for the second time) Prison Break.
These are the things that keeps me going plus following current news on TV, Newspapers and Radio.
I like browsing the net on my cellphone, watching a movie or reading a novel. Am seriously addicted to these three that a day cannot pass without doing one or all three.
Reading novels dates back to my secondary school days when i was introduced to african writers series and pacesetters. Now am used to read thrillers from best selling authours like; Tom Clancy, Clive Cussler, Robert Ludlum, Vince Flynn and Judith Kruntz. In fact i enjoy series with one hero like Cussler's Dirk Pitt, Clancy's Mike Rodgers and Jack Ryan.
I use every possible moment to browse on my phone. Its either am on Twitter or am reading various blogs especially Mashable. The only setback is when i don't have airtime.
I've learnt to respect time for my paid job and i don't mess up with it but internet is very tempting at times.
Working outside urban areas also works to my advantage. I go straight home to my television, novel or mobile internet when friends are going out. Am currently watching the series (for the second time) Prison Break.
These are the things that keeps me going plus following current news on TV, Newspapers and Radio.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Tribalism is slowly creeping in Malawi
Am proud to be a Malawian and i love everything good that has to do with my beautiful country. Despite the fact that my parents come from the northern part of Malawi, i don't like to be described as a northerner because i consider myself a Malawian first.
Am very worried at things that are being said in our beautiful country regarding certain tribes. It is very unfortunate that people have chosen to ignore the unity and closeness we have had as Malawians for a long period.
What is giving me sleepless nights is the fact that the very same leaders we trusted with guiding us, are dividing us. Church leaders, politicians and even traditional leaders are making divisive speeches, forming regional parties, and encouraging tribalism.
As someone who has travelled to many districts in Malawi, knows what it is like to live together as different tribes. I was born and raised in Blantyre, has worked with the Sena in Chikwawa and Nsanje, worked with the Chewa in Salima, Yao in Balaka, Zomba and Mangochi. I have also shared jokes with northerners in Mzimba, Rumphi and Nkhatabay. In all these cases i was treated well as a fellow Malawian. In fact there are lots of Malawians from different tribes staying together.
If people take heed of what these leaders are telling them, we are surely on our way of making a new Rwanda. They are sowing seeds of hatred that will still live on after they are gone. Just look at the comments you get on Nyasa Times. Almost every story published reader's comments end up in one tribe or region up against another. This is not good for the warm heart of Africa. The sooner we realise how deep these comments go, the sooner we will save our country and maintain the peace we enjoy.
Am very worried at things that are being said in our beautiful country regarding certain tribes. It is very unfortunate that people have chosen to ignore the unity and closeness we have had as Malawians for a long period.
What is giving me sleepless nights is the fact that the very same leaders we trusted with guiding us, are dividing us. Church leaders, politicians and even traditional leaders are making divisive speeches, forming regional parties, and encouraging tribalism.
As someone who has travelled to many districts in Malawi, knows what it is like to live together as different tribes. I was born and raised in Blantyre, has worked with the Sena in Chikwawa and Nsanje, worked with the Chewa in Salima, Yao in Balaka, Zomba and Mangochi. I have also shared jokes with northerners in Mzimba, Rumphi and Nkhatabay. In all these cases i was treated well as a fellow Malawian. In fact there are lots of Malawians from different tribes staying together.
If people take heed of what these leaders are telling them, we are surely on our way of making a new Rwanda. They are sowing seeds of hatred that will still live on after they are gone. Just look at the comments you get on Nyasa Times. Almost every story published reader's comments end up in one tribe or region up against another. This is not good for the warm heart of Africa. The sooner we realise how deep these comments go, the sooner we will save our country and maintain the peace we enjoy.
Friday, June 11, 2010
World Cup on Twitter
One of the things that makes the 2010 FIFA Football World Cup unique is the impact it is making in the social media. You can follow whatever is happening in South Africa on Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare or You Tube.
It is the first World Cup to be played since Twitter was founded late 2006. With only one game played, news about the cup has made it to the top of the trending topics.
On the eve of the World Cup, i followed most of the Kickoff concert's proceedings through various Twitter handles including Shakira and Knaan's who updated their statuses prior to their performance. Shakira even posted backstage pictures on Twitpic.
Apart from the normal football we will watch on the pitch, we will learn alot of things happening in camps faster than the traditional way of reporting. Several players including Kaka and Christian Ronaldo have accounts on Twitter. Ronaldo recently sent a picture of him and Mandela when the Portuguese team went to visit him (Mandela). The USA team has 10 players, out of the 23, with accounts on Twitter.
Twitter has since created a special world cup portal to give people a chance to follow the trending topics using their countries hashtags. Google has also teamed up with FIFA to give fans fast access on results and news of the world cup on the largest search engine. They are also using Google Maps to help fans find their way around South Africa. You can find detailed directions to restraunts, accomodation or any important places.
As a passionate follower and user of the social media, am very excited with all this. The only drawback is Twitter's capacity to handle the traffic. Wonder what will happen to Twitter when England plays USA. History is seriously being made and there is no better place to make it than in Africa.
It is the first World Cup to be played since Twitter was founded late 2006. With only one game played, news about the cup has made it to the top of the trending topics.
On the eve of the World Cup, i followed most of the Kickoff concert's proceedings through various Twitter handles including Shakira and Knaan's who updated their statuses prior to their performance. Shakira even posted backstage pictures on Twitpic.
Apart from the normal football we will watch on the pitch, we will learn alot of things happening in camps faster than the traditional way of reporting. Several players including Kaka and Christian Ronaldo have accounts on Twitter. Ronaldo recently sent a picture of him and Mandela when the Portuguese team went to visit him (Mandela). The USA team has 10 players, out of the 23, with accounts on Twitter.
Twitter has since created a special world cup portal to give people a chance to follow the trending topics using their countries hashtags. Google has also teamed up with FIFA to give fans fast access on results and news of the world cup on the largest search engine. They are also using Google Maps to help fans find their way around South Africa. You can find detailed directions to restraunts, accomodation or any important places.
As a passionate follower and user of the social media, am very excited with all this. The only drawback is Twitter's capacity to handle the traffic. Wonder what will happen to Twitter when England plays USA. History is seriously being made and there is no better place to make it than in Africa.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
WORLD CUP FEVER GRIPS OUR CHURCH
With the 2010 FIFA World Cup being hosted in African soil for the first time, my church refuses to be left behind. St James C.C.A.P Church fundraising committe has arranged to show all the 64 games live and on a big screen.
This fundraising event will see members and other patrons parting ways with MK150 for the games played in the afternoon while those played in the evening will attract MK350. Drinks and snacks will also be available.
This will give chance to the many church members who love football to watch the games with their families. All along people have been watching the Premier and Champion League games in drinking joints and other secular entertainment places due to lack of christian centred places.
The church's youth centre popularly known as the Vision Centre, has been specifically prepared to accomodate lots of people.
Zodiak Radio has also organised to show the games freely to the rural masses on big screens.
This fundraising event will see members and other patrons parting ways with MK150 for the games played in the afternoon while those played in the evening will attract MK350. Drinks and snacks will also be available.
This will give chance to the many church members who love football to watch the games with their families. All along people have been watching the Premier and Champion League games in drinking joints and other secular entertainment places due to lack of christian centred places.
The church's youth centre popularly known as the Vision Centre, has been specifically prepared to accomodate lots of people.
Zodiak Radio has also organised to show the games freely to the rural masses on big screens.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
What Malawi should learn from UK Elections
Someone recently said “if the same results of the UK elections were posted in Malawi, Brown would have been sworn in on Friday (a day after voting), Cameron arrested and Nick Clegg would have rushed to challenge the results in court.” Such is the case of Malawian politics in particular and Africa in general. Every time we have elections, we expect three things to happen; a rush in swearing in the ‘winner’, arresting opposition candidates for various reasons, mostly treason and the ‘loser’ challenging the results in court.
The recent UK elections offer three very good lessons to a Malawian politician and one who is aspiring to stand in the future elections.
1. A battle of ideologies not character assassination
Throughout the campaign it was clear that the three main parties believed in different ideologies and they were prepared to implement them if elected. It is very easy to distinguish one party from the other based on what policies they have on various issues like, immigration, education, political reform and the economy. Voters were given a chance to see the candidates debate on the policies that they believe. They had 3 live television debates.
In Malawi, the only thing that differentiates party A and party C is the name and the leaders. They don’t have clearly spelt ideologies or policies they subscribe to. In fact all the campaign rallies are almost similar. Just making empty promises and giving them handouts.
2. Acceptance of results
United Kingdom’s May 6 elections produced no outright winner because no one got the required 326 MP’s majority. All the contesting parties respected this outcome and they patiently waited for the next course of action. It was clear that the coalition meant that parties with different ideologies coming together to form the next government. All the negotiations were centered on what to change in the good interests of the country.
In the history of African politics, very few politicians have had the guts to digest the outcome of an election. Acceptance of results remains a challenge even in the countries we thought have mature democracies. A good example is 2007 elections in Kenya.
3. Transparency
The whole elections process was transparent even to an observer like me who is many miles away from UK. The campaigning period, the voting process, counting and announcement of the results were all transparent. Opposition parties were given airtime on the public radio and television. f course there were some problems which are normal in every election.
In Malawi, politicians are bosses and are not always accountable to us, the voters. In the run up to elections they make decision that only favor them or the candidates they like. The appointment of electoral commissions, the use of public resources and manipulation of traditional leaders do not level the playing field. What is expected of us is to keep quite and watch as the events unfold just like one legal advisor said that we gave them the mandate to run the government for the next five years so we should sit back and let them govern.
The recent UK elections offer three very good lessons to a Malawian politician and one who is aspiring to stand in the future elections.
1. A battle of ideologies not character assassination
Throughout the campaign it was clear that the three main parties believed in different ideologies and they were prepared to implement them if elected. It is very easy to distinguish one party from the other based on what policies they have on various issues like, immigration, education, political reform and the economy. Voters were given a chance to see the candidates debate on the policies that they believe. They had 3 live television debates.
In Malawi, the only thing that differentiates party A and party C is the name and the leaders. They don’t have clearly spelt ideologies or policies they subscribe to. In fact all the campaign rallies are almost similar. Just making empty promises and giving them handouts.
2. Acceptance of results
United Kingdom’s May 6 elections produced no outright winner because no one got the required 326 MP’s majority. All the contesting parties respected this outcome and they patiently waited for the next course of action. It was clear that the coalition meant that parties with different ideologies coming together to form the next government. All the negotiations were centered on what to change in the good interests of the country.
In the history of African politics, very few politicians have had the guts to digest the outcome of an election. Acceptance of results remains a challenge even in the countries we thought have mature democracies. A good example is 2007 elections in Kenya.
3. Transparency
The whole elections process was transparent even to an observer like me who is many miles away from UK. The campaigning period, the voting process, counting and announcement of the results were all transparent. Opposition parties were given airtime on the public radio and television. f course there were some problems which are normal in every election.
In Malawi, politicians are bosses and are not always accountable to us, the voters. In the run up to elections they make decision that only favor them or the candidates they like. The appointment of electoral commissions, the use of public resources and manipulation of traditional leaders do not level the playing field. What is expected of us is to keep quite and watch as the events unfold just like one legal advisor said that we gave them the mandate to run the government for the next five years so we should sit back and let them govern.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
POLYGAMY BAN, MANDATORY AIDS TESTING AND FLAG CHANGE IN MALAWI
There is something wrong with the way the Malawi Government is consulting its people on the various important issues. Crucial decisions that will affect the masses are being made without Malawians themselves expressing their views in a transparent manner.
First it was the infamous quota system (or equitable access to higher education) of which we were made to believe that a lot of people were consulted and were in support of it. But the truth is that some quarters were very determined to implement it regardless of opposing views or court cases. It has since been implemented disregarding views for those opposing it.
Now it has just finished “consultations” on flag change. From the word go one could see lack of transparency in the way the consultations were being conducted. The idea of consulting traditional leaders as representatives of the people was not the right way to hear views of all Malawians. Like the quota system, it seems government was bent on changing the flag regardless of what the majority of Malawians said. That’s why they had to rush to the traditional leaders who are already singing praises of the present government.
As if that is not enough, there are reports that government is about to table a bill that among others, bans polygamy. There are claims that polygamy is contributing to the spread of the HIV/AIDS virus. Therefore those who will marry more than one wife after the bill is passed will be fined or jailed for five years. This ahs also not gone down well with the many Malawians who think that the government is going too far in this respect. Some call it regulating morals. In a normal democracy, we should have expected this bill to be shot down in parliament but with the majority that the ruling party is enjoying, forget about this possibility. If what the Gender Minister told BBC and Capital Radio recently that government is serious in tabling this bill and the mandatory HIV test bill, then they are as good as already passed. The Muslim Community will make all the noise it can on this issue but nothing will change, ask Livingstonia Synod.
In two weeks time we will clock one year into the second term of the ruling DPP but several unpopular decisions made during this period will easily erase the good image DPP created in the first term. People who are able to read through the walls will agree with me that we should anticipate very long and hard four years to finish this term.
First it was the infamous quota system (or equitable access to higher education) of which we were made to believe that a lot of people were consulted and were in support of it. But the truth is that some quarters were very determined to implement it regardless of opposing views or court cases. It has since been implemented disregarding views for those opposing it.
Now it has just finished “consultations” on flag change. From the word go one could see lack of transparency in the way the consultations were being conducted. The idea of consulting traditional leaders as representatives of the people was not the right way to hear views of all Malawians. Like the quota system, it seems government was bent on changing the flag regardless of what the majority of Malawians said. That’s why they had to rush to the traditional leaders who are already singing praises of the present government.
As if that is not enough, there are reports that government is about to table a bill that among others, bans polygamy. There are claims that polygamy is contributing to the spread of the HIV/AIDS virus. Therefore those who will marry more than one wife after the bill is passed will be fined or jailed for five years. This ahs also not gone down well with the many Malawians who think that the government is going too far in this respect. Some call it regulating morals. In a normal democracy, we should have expected this bill to be shot down in parliament but with the majority that the ruling party is enjoying, forget about this possibility. If what the Gender Minister told BBC and Capital Radio recently that government is serious in tabling this bill and the mandatory HIV test bill, then they are as good as already passed. The Muslim Community will make all the noise it can on this issue but nothing will change, ask Livingstonia Synod.
In two weeks time we will clock one year into the second term of the ruling DPP but several unpopular decisions made during this period will easily erase the good image DPP created in the first term. People who are able to read through the walls will agree with me that we should anticipate very long and hard four years to finish this term.
PRESS FREEDOM DAY
As the people all over the world commemorate this day, Malawian journalists will as usual take to the streets in Blantyre carrying placards with various messages written on them. I would have joined them had it been that I was in Blantyre but am some 80km away and will be working the whole day. I respect and value this noble profession for the mere fact that they feed my growing appetite for information but I don’t envy their salaries or the environment that they work in.
The past year has been very interesting in relation to press freedom in Malawi. If you were in the shoes of the Nation Newspaper you should have been complaining of the advertisement ban from the government and its various departments which came along in that period. I guess you could have written a placard expressing your anger at the treatment your fellow journalists went through in trying to cover government events.
In the eyes of the newly born Weekend Times, you should have bemoaned how easy it was to expose scandals of high profile people. The freedom of writing whatever you found of other people’s lives could have been on your lips all the way to the end of the big walk. If you were Brian Banda you could have thanked all the people who have graced your latest program, Capital Straight Talk. Some questions you asked are sensitive but you forced your way to get the answers. Big fish from both sides of the coin have been your guests. Sad that the drycleaner is not here to join his brother, Paparazi, Makiyolobasi, Twister and Bartender in displaying linen they have been trying to clean all this time.
From a layman’s point of view, we are still enjoying the freedom of expression we voted for in 1994 but there are some areas we can do better. The public broadcasters are still singing praises to the government of the day just as it was with the past regimes. It shows that journalists working in these media houses are not yet free to write or report what they want to (or have they been brainwashed to the point that they don’t see anything newsworthy in the opposing views). Some time there was talk that changing the Communications Act was the only way of making sure that every party will be heard on the public broadcaster. There is no better time to debate and pass the Access to Information bill and change the Communications Act than now when the ruling party has a majority in Parliament.
By the end of the day after a tiresome walk, there will be a dance at Mount Soche Hotel where outstanding journalists will be awarded for their good work. As consumers of the information they report, we don’t have much say on the awards but if I were given a chance I could have chosen Brian Banda and his Capital Straight Talk as the best thing that has happened to the media fraternity the past year. The questions asked in the program are superb, the guests interviewed are at the thick of things and the reporter is just very good. Then there is the Sunday Times. It is a full package that Malawians in need of information needs to read. Muckraking on Sunday, Just a word, Hard Tackle, Wings of Hope, Oped and True Life drama are simply the best. Maybe Zebedee is too old to be getting praises but he is still giving out the best.
Finally I wish all the media guys a very good day in celebrating press freedom. But don’t get very drunk to miss stories for tomorrow’s front pages.
The past year has been very interesting in relation to press freedom in Malawi. If you were in the shoes of the Nation Newspaper you should have been complaining of the advertisement ban from the government and its various departments which came along in that period. I guess you could have written a placard expressing your anger at the treatment your fellow journalists went through in trying to cover government events.
In the eyes of the newly born Weekend Times, you should have bemoaned how easy it was to expose scandals of high profile people. The freedom of writing whatever you found of other people’s lives could have been on your lips all the way to the end of the big walk. If you were Brian Banda you could have thanked all the people who have graced your latest program, Capital Straight Talk. Some questions you asked are sensitive but you forced your way to get the answers. Big fish from both sides of the coin have been your guests. Sad that the drycleaner is not here to join his brother, Paparazi, Makiyolobasi, Twister and Bartender in displaying linen they have been trying to clean all this time.
From a layman’s point of view, we are still enjoying the freedom of expression we voted for in 1994 but there are some areas we can do better. The public broadcasters are still singing praises to the government of the day just as it was with the past regimes. It shows that journalists working in these media houses are not yet free to write or report what they want to (or have they been brainwashed to the point that they don’t see anything newsworthy in the opposing views). Some time there was talk that changing the Communications Act was the only way of making sure that every party will be heard on the public broadcaster. There is no better time to debate and pass the Access to Information bill and change the Communications Act than now when the ruling party has a majority in Parliament.
By the end of the day after a tiresome walk, there will be a dance at Mount Soche Hotel where outstanding journalists will be awarded for their good work. As consumers of the information they report, we don’t have much say on the awards but if I were given a chance I could have chosen Brian Banda and his Capital Straight Talk as the best thing that has happened to the media fraternity the past year. The questions asked in the program are superb, the guests interviewed are at the thick of things and the reporter is just very good. Then there is the Sunday Times. It is a full package that Malawians in need of information needs to read. Muckraking on Sunday, Just a word, Hard Tackle, Wings of Hope, Oped and True Life drama are simply the best. Maybe Zebedee is too old to be getting praises but he is still giving out the best.
Finally I wish all the media guys a very good day in celebrating press freedom. But don’t get very drunk to miss stories for tomorrow’s front pages.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
A NATION OF DRUNKARDS?
You don’t have to be an expert to see how alcoholism is slowly taking root in the lives of Malawians. Many people all over the country are drinking like nobody’s business and the effect of this is slowly catching up with us.
Apart from the people who patronize bottle stores, bars and beer halls, a new form of beer drinking has emerged. The coming in (or is it successful marketing) of some spirits packed in 50ml sachets has shortened the distance to the bottle stores. Young men and grown ups alike have the freedom of drinking anywhere, in minibuses, schools, stadiums, etc. all you need is to buy a good number of sachets (Boss, Tyson, Raider, Powers) which are very cheap (K50/sachet).
I recently travelled in a minibus from Limbe to Thyolo. When we were starting off everyone was okay and we anticipated having a good trip. A few miles after taking off, the conductor produced beer sachets and started drinking and it did not take long for him to get drunk. Some people tried to reason with him not to be drinking whilst on duty but fellow passengers defended him claiming it was his right (these rights!!). For fear of arguing with people, I chose to be quiet and just watched as the events unfolded. By the time we reached Luchenza, we (including our mums and dads who were not there), have had our share of insults and threats. This is just one example of how alcoholism is affecting people’s day to day lives.
Things of this nature are also happening in the various offices all over the country. People are coming to work full of hangover and their performance is affected and in the long run it affects the development of our country. One wonders what the relevant authorities are doing about this. The funny thing is that this is happening in both the rural and urban areas. You will be amazed to find a person drunk at 7am in the village.
The faith community has not been spared either. Contrary to what the laws of particular churches are saying, you will still find its members in drinking joints. There is need to find a solution to this problem which is slowly taking shape in our country.
Apart from the people who patronize bottle stores, bars and beer halls, a new form of beer drinking has emerged. The coming in (or is it successful marketing) of some spirits packed in 50ml sachets has shortened the distance to the bottle stores. Young men and grown ups alike have the freedom of drinking anywhere, in minibuses, schools, stadiums, etc. all you need is to buy a good number of sachets (Boss, Tyson, Raider, Powers) which are very cheap (K50/sachet).
I recently travelled in a minibus from Limbe to Thyolo. When we were starting off everyone was okay and we anticipated having a good trip. A few miles after taking off, the conductor produced beer sachets and started drinking and it did not take long for him to get drunk. Some people tried to reason with him not to be drinking whilst on duty but fellow passengers defended him claiming it was his right (these rights!!). For fear of arguing with people, I chose to be quiet and just watched as the events unfolded. By the time we reached Luchenza, we (including our mums and dads who were not there), have had our share of insults and threats. This is just one example of how alcoholism is affecting people’s day to day lives.
Things of this nature are also happening in the various offices all over the country. People are coming to work full of hangover and their performance is affected and in the long run it affects the development of our country. One wonders what the relevant authorities are doing about this. The funny thing is that this is happening in both the rural and urban areas. You will be amazed to find a person drunk at 7am in the village.
The faith community has not been spared either. Contrary to what the laws of particular churches are saying, you will still find its members in drinking joints. There is need to find a solution to this problem which is slowly taking shape in our country.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
They need help…….
My part time work as a volunteer placement coordinator for various organizations has enlightened me to many problems that Malawians are facing. Even though I grew up in a poor family, I dint know the extent of poverty in other people’s lives until recently…here is one case.
I was looking for an orphan care centre to place a volunteer when I came across Step Kids Awareness Centre (STEKA) at Nyambadwe in Blantyre. They take care of 20 street kids from around Blantyre and they chose to raise them in a family setup. Godknows Maseko and his wife, Helen resigned from their various workplaces with an idea of taking care of the kids.
Since they started in 2007 they have met a lot of problems but are still operating thanks to a South African missionary, Felix Starker who started helping them until recently. Apart from finding food to feed the 20 kids, Godknows and Helen pays fees for 18 kids who go to school, buy basic necessities for them and pays rent for the house.
Maseko refuses to call his centre an orphanage claiming it has a psychological effect on the kids as they live in seclusion. He prefers to call it STEKA HOUSE and all the kids address him as ‘dad’. A visit to the centre proved this as the way they are raised is very different from the orphanages I have visited so far.
But they have a big problem in finding money. Maseko and his wife are jobless and were surviving on funding from Starker who has since stopped. This has prompted Maseko to start looking for an income generating activity but enough capital is a problem. In a proposal sent to me, he wants to revive a tailoring shop he used to have before Starker came in, start rearing chicken and gardening some vegetables for sell in supermarkets.
STEKA is therefore calling on all well wishers to help them in any way. You can email me if you want the proposal sent to you or visit STEKA’s blog for more information. Any help that you can offer will go a long way in taking care of the 20 kids at STEKA and hopefully many more kids.
I was looking for an orphan care centre to place a volunteer when I came across Step Kids Awareness Centre (STEKA) at Nyambadwe in Blantyre. They take care of 20 street kids from around Blantyre and they chose to raise them in a family setup. Godknows Maseko and his wife, Helen resigned from their various workplaces with an idea of taking care of the kids.
Since they started in 2007 they have met a lot of problems but are still operating thanks to a South African missionary, Felix Starker who started helping them until recently. Apart from finding food to feed the 20 kids, Godknows and Helen pays fees for 18 kids who go to school, buy basic necessities for them and pays rent for the house.
Maseko refuses to call his centre an orphanage claiming it has a psychological effect on the kids as they live in seclusion. He prefers to call it STEKA HOUSE and all the kids address him as ‘dad’. A visit to the centre proved this as the way they are raised is very different from the orphanages I have visited so far.
But they have a big problem in finding money. Maseko and his wife are jobless and were surviving on funding from Starker who has since stopped. This has prompted Maseko to start looking for an income generating activity but enough capital is a problem. In a proposal sent to me, he wants to revive a tailoring shop he used to have before Starker came in, start rearing chicken and gardening some vegetables for sell in supermarkets.
STEKA is therefore calling on all well wishers to help them in any way. You can email me if you want the proposal sent to you or visit STEKA’s blog for more information. Any help that you can offer will go a long way in taking care of the 20 kids at STEKA and hopefully many more kids.
We passed through the Blantyre Magistrate’s court.....
Suddenly the music got so loud that we managed to attract the attention of passersby. Everyone stopped. We danced to the various songs that emitted from the huge speakers while we sang along. Some youths broke into loud prayers whilst others had the courage to touch the walls of the courthouse.
That was how things were when we passed through the Blantyre Magistrates Court where the fate of two gays, Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza will be decided Nyakwawa UsiwaUsiwa next week. Hundreds of Christian youths from various CCAP congregations in Blantyre City Presbytery marched around the city on Saturday, 27th March.
As believers, future leaders of both the state and the church, we made our position clear on various issues affecting the country and the world through songs, placards and messages. We centered on what the bible says on same sex marriages, immorality, justice, equal rights and many more.
The march was organized by the Youth Steering Committee of CCAP Blantyre City Presbytery and started at Mount Pleasant CCAP to Limbe CCAP through the Highway. The idea was to make noise for Christ, proclaim his greatness and pray for various things happening in the world.
That was how things were when we passed through the Blantyre Magistrates Court where the fate of two gays, Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza will be decided Nyakwawa UsiwaUsiwa next week. Hundreds of Christian youths from various CCAP congregations in Blantyre City Presbytery marched around the city on Saturday, 27th March.
As believers, future leaders of both the state and the church, we made our position clear on various issues affecting the country and the world through songs, placards and messages. We centered on what the bible says on same sex marriages, immorality, justice, equal rights and many more.
The march was organized by the Youth Steering Committee of CCAP Blantyre City Presbytery and started at Mount Pleasant CCAP to Limbe CCAP through the Highway. The idea was to make noise for Christ, proclaim his greatness and pray for various things happening in the world.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
MALAWIAN MEDIA AND THE INTERNET – UPDATE
Several developments have happened since I wrote an article on Malawi media and the internet a few months ago. One notable thing is the improvement of the two popular media houses’ websites.
Zodiak Broadcasting Radio has improved their website and this year Malawians had a rare opportunity of finding the examination results on the internet. The country’s examining body, Malawi National Examinations Board (MANEB), does not have a website (or is it that I don’t know about it?) so Zodiak published the results on their site. It was the same with the 2010 University of Malawi Entrance Exams.
The award winning publishing house, Blantyre Newspapers Limited, is now operating a new website which covers all of its publications, The Daily Times, Sunday Times and Malawi News. Even though at times it is updated a bit late; the BNL Times website is becoming popular among people who need to know what is happening in Malawi. The site is well designed and is interactive and easy to navigate.
Another Malawi online news site was launched recently. The Maravi Post is an improvement of blog called Malawi Politics. It now focuses on a broader picture of what is happening in Malawi than concentrating on politics alone. A seasoned journalist and blogger, Kondwani Bell Munthali is one of the people behind this site which promises to be a trusted source of Malawi News.
The popularity of Facebook, Twitter, Mocospace and other social networking sites among Malawians has contributed to the birth of a Malawian owned social site, ifeyo.com. The brain child of Justin Malewezi Jnr and Hetherwick Ntaba Jnr (sons of well known politicians), ifeyo.com is a platform for young Malawians to network, share pictures, videos and music. It also acts as a discussion forum for young people on various issues concerning them.
With the more and more sites turning to the mobile platform, Malawian developers are not to be left out. Two young Malawians recently launched a site to upload, download and promote music from the mobile phone. Mwtunes.com is giving chance to upcoming musicians to expose their music to the world.
Things are really moving in the Malawian cyberspace even though accessing the internet remains a challenge to an average Malawian. It is still very expensive for one to use the internet especially in the rural areas.
Zodiak Broadcasting Radio has improved their website and this year Malawians had a rare opportunity of finding the examination results on the internet. The country’s examining body, Malawi National Examinations Board (MANEB), does not have a website (or is it that I don’t know about it?) so Zodiak published the results on their site. It was the same with the 2010 University of Malawi Entrance Exams.
The award winning publishing house, Blantyre Newspapers Limited, is now operating a new website which covers all of its publications, The Daily Times, Sunday Times and Malawi News. Even though at times it is updated a bit late; the BNL Times website is becoming popular among people who need to know what is happening in Malawi. The site is well designed and is interactive and easy to navigate.
Another Malawi online news site was launched recently. The Maravi Post is an improvement of blog called Malawi Politics. It now focuses on a broader picture of what is happening in Malawi than concentrating on politics alone. A seasoned journalist and blogger, Kondwani Bell Munthali is one of the people behind this site which promises to be a trusted source of Malawi News.
The popularity of Facebook, Twitter, Mocospace and other social networking sites among Malawians has contributed to the birth of a Malawian owned social site, ifeyo.com. The brain child of Justin Malewezi Jnr and Hetherwick Ntaba Jnr (sons of well known politicians), ifeyo.com is a platform for young Malawians to network, share pictures, videos and music. It also acts as a discussion forum for young people on various issues concerning them.
With the more and more sites turning to the mobile platform, Malawian developers are not to be left out. Two young Malawians recently launched a site to upload, download and promote music from the mobile phone. Mwtunes.com is giving chance to upcoming musicians to expose their music to the world.
Things are really moving in the Malawian cyberspace even though accessing the internet remains a challenge to an average Malawian. It is still very expensive for one to use the internet especially in the rural areas.
CONGRATULATIONS VICTOR KAONGA
News that Victor Kaonga, a reknowned Broadcaster, Blogger and Christian has been asked to act as a National Director of Transworld Radio Malawi did not come as a surprise to me. I have always believed that Victor is destined for great things. His humility, hardworking, passion for the work of Christ and his interest in learning new things positioned him for success.
I first heard of Victor on Transworld Radio a few years back. In fact it was him and Cryton Chikoko that inspired me everytime I listened to Transworld. I later learnt that they both have blogs and I have followed, Ndagha, ever since. This is what inspired me to start maintaining blogs. I still have time to listen to Transworld radio and my favourite program is Climbing Higher ( a program that addresses biblical issues affecting young people).
I personally met Victor on 29th December 2007 at Lilongwe Girls Secondary School when he came with Dr. Dixie Maluwa who was preaching at our (St James CCAP) youth camp. Though he was not on the program, he took time to answer a few questions from the young people aspiring to be journalists. I was one of them!!!! He later posted about the youth camp on his blog.
Come February 22, 2010, Victor takes over from Rev. Patrick Semphere as Acting National Director of Transworld Radio Malawi. Congratulations!!!! I also like the way Victor manages to use the new media without losing touch of the traditional media. I wish him a successful stay at the helm of a radio that inspires young people…….
I first heard of Victor on Transworld Radio a few years back. In fact it was him and Cryton Chikoko that inspired me everytime I listened to Transworld. I later learnt that they both have blogs and I have followed, Ndagha, ever since. This is what inspired me to start maintaining blogs. I still have time to listen to Transworld radio and my favourite program is Climbing Higher ( a program that addresses biblical issues affecting young people).
I personally met Victor on 29th December 2007 at Lilongwe Girls Secondary School when he came with Dr. Dixie Maluwa who was preaching at our (St James CCAP) youth camp. Though he was not on the program, he took time to answer a few questions from the young people aspiring to be journalists. I was one of them!!!! He later posted about the youth camp on his blog.
Come February 22, 2010, Victor takes over from Rev. Patrick Semphere as Acting National Director of Transworld Radio Malawi. Congratulations!!!! I also like the way Victor manages to use the new media without losing touch of the traditional media. I wish him a successful stay at the helm of a radio that inspires young people…….
Monday, February 22, 2010
ACCIDENTS
For the past two weeks over 3 people have died on the Robert Mugabe Highway (popularly called Midima) which starts from Limbe to Mulanje. These are just a few victims of road accidents which are most common in this part of Malawi. I have come to observe that accidents are common in these areas because of two things:
1. The most common means of transport in this area is the bicycle (just as it is the case with most rural areas of Malawi). There is a popular joke that they are more bicycles in Mulanje than people. Unfortunately most of these cyclists are ignorant of the rules of the road or choose to ignore the rules. You will find a cyclist riding on the very centre of a road when he sees that no vehicle is around. Most of the accidents involve motorists and cyclists and in most cases the cyclists are the victims.
SOLUTION: Intensive civic education. I know that the relevant authorities have been carrying out campaigns to train educate the cyclists but its effects are yet to bear fruits. Come to Nkando, Bvumbwe, Muloza, Chinakanaka and see how cyclists control traffic. There is a popular program on the state controlled radio, Malangizo a Pansewu which gives advice to road users. Do the cyclists listen to this program?
2. Most of the markets in this part of Malawi are in the road side. When its market day in Bvumbwe or Nkando its very difficult to travel using a vehicle. And these are the days when lots of accidents happen. People sell their various wares along the road because the places that the markets were assigned are close to the roads.
SOLUTION: The relevant athourities should move the markets to better areas instead of the roads.
As am writing this some familes are grieving for the lives of their dear ones who have died in these accidents. I believe that we could have prevented these accidents.
1. The most common means of transport in this area is the bicycle (just as it is the case with most rural areas of Malawi). There is a popular joke that they are more bicycles in Mulanje than people. Unfortunately most of these cyclists are ignorant of the rules of the road or choose to ignore the rules. You will find a cyclist riding on the very centre of a road when he sees that no vehicle is around. Most of the accidents involve motorists and cyclists and in most cases the cyclists are the victims.
SOLUTION: Intensive civic education. I know that the relevant authorities have been carrying out campaigns to train educate the cyclists but its effects are yet to bear fruits. Come to Nkando, Bvumbwe, Muloza, Chinakanaka and see how cyclists control traffic. There is a popular program on the state controlled radio, Malangizo a Pansewu which gives advice to road users. Do the cyclists listen to this program?
2. Most of the markets in this part of Malawi are in the road side. When its market day in Bvumbwe or Nkando its very difficult to travel using a vehicle. And these are the days when lots of accidents happen. People sell their various wares along the road because the places that the markets were assigned are close to the roads.
SOLUTION: The relevant athourities should move the markets to better areas instead of the roads.
As am writing this some familes are grieving for the lives of their dear ones who have died in these accidents. I believe that we could have prevented these accidents.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
PRESIDENT FOR A DAY
Throughout the month of February, BBC World Service is giving a chance to its African listeners a chance to present a presidential inaugural address. These addresses are aired daily on their Network Africa programmes. As an avid listener of this program i sent out my speech and i thought of publishing it on this blog. Read it below:
PRESIDENT FOR A DAY
REBUILDING MALAWI
Let me start by thanking all the people who voted for me to this position of President of the Republic of Malawi. It was not an easy thing to compete with all the candidates who gave out a spirited challenge. In the same breath I would like to extend my invitation to all the losing candidates to join me in leading Malawi for the next five years. I have read all the manifestos you presented during campaign and there are several things which when added to our manifesto will help the people of Malawi. I have delayed in choosing my cabinet waiting for the response from the other presidential aspirants and their parties. It is for our benefit as Malawians. United we stand divided we fall!!
I have titled my speech”Rebuilding Malawi” simply because that is the only thing that we can do to make it a better place to live. Our country is in ruins because of the type of leadership we have had in the past years. There is a problem with our economy. Yes, we are making strides on paper but people are still suffering in the villages. Our education system is in tatters and needs to be attended if we are to build a better Malawi. I know that most of the people gracing this inaugural ceremony are unemployed; I will work to create more jobs.
As a country we have a lot of resources which, if shared properly, can be enough for everyone. The first step to make this a reality is to limit the amount of allowances given to public servants. Imagine a President is at liberty to have millions and millions of Kwachas in bank accounts at the expense of a farmer in Nsanje. Ministers, Members of Parliament and Principal Secretaries are driving posh vehicles disregarding the people they are supposed to serve. I seek to end this!! I know there some who are hard working and deserve to have riches but there are others who are just abusing taxpayer’s money. They are where they are because of your votes and taxes while you are still suffering!!
When a person has basic needs in life and is happy that’s when we can involve him in developmental activities. We will only talk of infrastructure development when we share the national cake equally. When every home is able to feed itself, send children to school and have a good house. You all pay tax in one way or another so you should enjoy being a Malawian and using Malawian resources. When choosing my cabinet, I will look for people who are selfless, who are prepared to lead and not to be worshipped. I need people who will be on the ground to understand people’s problems and find a way to sort them.
In rebuilding Malawi we need good roads, railways and a thriving water transport. We don’t have time to waste and every minute, every person (ruling or opposition) counts. As long as you are a Malawian we need you, your ideas and any type of contribution you can make. You have been ignored for too long and now time has come to take part in rebuilding Malawi to your satisfaction. We have wise people in the villages that have been sidelined simply because they had no resources to compete with the rich in elections. We need you now!!
I also want to find an alternative to our economy’s reliance on agriculture. As much as we are proud of being farmers, little progress is made to our economy. Our forefathers used to farm on the same land we are using now but only a few things developed. We are going the same route that the previous regimes had stumbled. They had to rely on the rain pattern and prices of our farm produce. Do we have to make the same mistake? NO!! There is a lot we can do to earn foreign currency, technology for instance. My fellow Malawians things are changing; people are making a lot of money out of technology. If we embrace technology we can make a lot of money for the country. We need to teach our children right from the nursery school through to the colleges. Only then will we be able to find foreign currency using others means apart from agriculture.
In closing I would like to remind you that together we can build a better Malawi. My presidency is your presidency, be proud of it. At the end of the day it is all of us (Malawians) who will be winners and we will retire happily knowing that we have secured a future for the coming generations.…..VIVA MALAWI
PRESIDENT FOR A DAY
REBUILDING MALAWI
Let me start by thanking all the people who voted for me to this position of President of the Republic of Malawi. It was not an easy thing to compete with all the candidates who gave out a spirited challenge. In the same breath I would like to extend my invitation to all the losing candidates to join me in leading Malawi for the next five years. I have read all the manifestos you presented during campaign and there are several things which when added to our manifesto will help the people of Malawi. I have delayed in choosing my cabinet waiting for the response from the other presidential aspirants and their parties. It is for our benefit as Malawians. United we stand divided we fall!!
I have titled my speech”Rebuilding Malawi” simply because that is the only thing that we can do to make it a better place to live. Our country is in ruins because of the type of leadership we have had in the past years. There is a problem with our economy. Yes, we are making strides on paper but people are still suffering in the villages. Our education system is in tatters and needs to be attended if we are to build a better Malawi. I know that most of the people gracing this inaugural ceremony are unemployed; I will work to create more jobs.
As a country we have a lot of resources which, if shared properly, can be enough for everyone. The first step to make this a reality is to limit the amount of allowances given to public servants. Imagine a President is at liberty to have millions and millions of Kwachas in bank accounts at the expense of a farmer in Nsanje. Ministers, Members of Parliament and Principal Secretaries are driving posh vehicles disregarding the people they are supposed to serve. I seek to end this!! I know there some who are hard working and deserve to have riches but there are others who are just abusing taxpayer’s money. They are where they are because of your votes and taxes while you are still suffering!!
When a person has basic needs in life and is happy that’s when we can involve him in developmental activities. We will only talk of infrastructure development when we share the national cake equally. When every home is able to feed itself, send children to school and have a good house. You all pay tax in one way or another so you should enjoy being a Malawian and using Malawian resources. When choosing my cabinet, I will look for people who are selfless, who are prepared to lead and not to be worshipped. I need people who will be on the ground to understand people’s problems and find a way to sort them.
In rebuilding Malawi we need good roads, railways and a thriving water transport. We don’t have time to waste and every minute, every person (ruling or opposition) counts. As long as you are a Malawian we need you, your ideas and any type of contribution you can make. You have been ignored for too long and now time has come to take part in rebuilding Malawi to your satisfaction. We have wise people in the villages that have been sidelined simply because they had no resources to compete with the rich in elections. We need you now!!
I also want to find an alternative to our economy’s reliance on agriculture. As much as we are proud of being farmers, little progress is made to our economy. Our forefathers used to farm on the same land we are using now but only a few things developed. We are going the same route that the previous regimes had stumbled. They had to rely on the rain pattern and prices of our farm produce. Do we have to make the same mistake? NO!! There is a lot we can do to earn foreign currency, technology for instance. My fellow Malawians things are changing; people are making a lot of money out of technology. If we embrace technology we can make a lot of money for the country. We need to teach our children right from the nursery school through to the colleges. Only then will we be able to find foreign currency using others means apart from agriculture.
In closing I would like to remind you that together we can build a better Malawi. My presidency is your presidency, be proud of it. At the end of the day it is all of us (Malawians) who will be winners and we will retire happily knowing that we have secured a future for the coming generations.…..VIVA MALAWI
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
2010
Apart from being my first post in the New Year, this also breaks my 3 months silence. I did not come near my blogger dashboard since I last updated it on October 19. I have now finished what was keeping me busy and am back to write lots of things like I’ve never written before.
I wish all my readers a happy new year and hope that this year will be the best in your lives. I have already started experiencing great things in this New Year even though there are some dark spots. As we were drawing close to 2009 and a few days in 2010, Karonga, a district Northern Malawi, experienced over 30 earthquakes which claimed 5 lives (as of 23rd January). The highest quake measured 6.2 on the Richter scale. We have also witnessed the earthquake in Haiti which has claimed lots of lives and left many more homeless.
Just like any African, I very much wanted to see this year 2010 and am glad to have stayed over 20 days in it. The fact that we are hosting the first ever football World Cup in this continent is enough to make a real African happy. In June this year all roads will lead to South Africa for the biggest soccer fiesta, the World Cup. I can’t wait to be part of this historical moment when all the soccer stars will be rubbing shoulders on the continent for the first time.
On the local scene we have lots of things to write about but one thing stands out. Malawi National football team, The Flames, qualified for the 2010 Orange African Cup of Nations currently being played in Angola. At the tournament the Flames beat World Cup bound, Algeria 3 – 0, lost to Angola 2 – 0 and Mali 3 - 1 before bowing out. Despite that they were booted out of the competition, I salute the Flames for making it to the tournament after 25 years (they last qualified in 1984).
2010 will be another interesting year in Malawi politics as we expect to see lots of fireworks from the different players. Now that the former President has finally retired from active politics UDF and its acting leader (president or chairman) Friday Jumbe, faces a new task of rebuilding the party. They were at least given a new year gift in winning a by-election in Machinga while the ruling, DPP won a seat in Lilongwe.
The first ever gay engagement in Malawi hit the headlines late last year and continues to draw comments from various quarters all over the world. Steven Monjeza (the groom) and Tiwonge Chimbalanga (bride) were arrested and their case is still going on at the Blantyre Magistrates Court. A lot is being said and the media coverage this story has attracted can only be likened to Madonna’s adoption of David and Mercy.
Lest I forget!! We are having presidential engangement on February 14 and wedding on 1 May this year. More details in my next post.
Hope we will be together and you will continue visiting this blog. Happy 2010!!!
I wish all my readers a happy new year and hope that this year will be the best in your lives. I have already started experiencing great things in this New Year even though there are some dark spots. As we were drawing close to 2009 and a few days in 2010, Karonga, a district Northern Malawi, experienced over 30 earthquakes which claimed 5 lives (as of 23rd January). The highest quake measured 6.2 on the Richter scale. We have also witnessed the earthquake in Haiti which has claimed lots of lives and left many more homeless.
Just like any African, I very much wanted to see this year 2010 and am glad to have stayed over 20 days in it. The fact that we are hosting the first ever football World Cup in this continent is enough to make a real African happy. In June this year all roads will lead to South Africa for the biggest soccer fiesta, the World Cup. I can’t wait to be part of this historical moment when all the soccer stars will be rubbing shoulders on the continent for the first time.
On the local scene we have lots of things to write about but one thing stands out. Malawi National football team, The Flames, qualified for the 2010 Orange African Cup of Nations currently being played in Angola. At the tournament the Flames beat World Cup bound, Algeria 3 – 0, lost to Angola 2 – 0 and Mali 3 - 1 before bowing out. Despite that they were booted out of the competition, I salute the Flames for making it to the tournament after 25 years (they last qualified in 1984).
2010 will be another interesting year in Malawi politics as we expect to see lots of fireworks from the different players. Now that the former President has finally retired from active politics UDF and its acting leader (president or chairman) Friday Jumbe, faces a new task of rebuilding the party. They were at least given a new year gift in winning a by-election in Machinga while the ruling, DPP won a seat in Lilongwe.
The first ever gay engagement in Malawi hit the headlines late last year and continues to draw comments from various quarters all over the world. Steven Monjeza (the groom) and Tiwonge Chimbalanga (bride) were arrested and their case is still going on at the Blantyre Magistrates Court. A lot is being said and the media coverage this story has attracted can only be likened to Madonna’s adoption of David and Mercy.
Lest I forget!! We are having presidential engangement on February 14 and wedding on 1 May this year. More details in my next post.
Hope we will be together and you will continue visiting this blog. Happy 2010!!!
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