She needs not be Ambassador
By Hastings Maloya
There shall never be a time without debate in Malawi. With the current political dispensation and freedom of expression, we are not running short of subjects for discussion on daily basis. Some issues are worth debating as they help us understand ourselves and our nation better.
Lately in the lame light is the issue of the Right Honourable Joyce Banda with allegations that she has been stripped of her mantle as the African Union (AU) Safe Motherhood Goodwill Ambassador. There are different schools of thoughts coming out with other people clearly expressing disappointment to the development.
My colleague on the opposite page is also not happy with the alleged decision and justifies his stand. For me, if indeed it is true, i do not see any problem and I do not understand why we should be debating this straight forward matter.
According to media reports Health Minister Moses Chirambo had written a memo in which he indicated that after due consultations, it has now occurred to his ministry that the portfolio of Safe motherhood commends itself more as a portfolio under the Ministry of Gender, Children and Community development and not the ministry of Health. A fact.
The memo, it was reported, further mentioned of the placement of the portfolio of Safe Motherhood, to which the Right Honourable was relieved. Not much information has been shared but its surprising how debate has come up and how government has been accused of wrong doing.
To a certain degree one wonders if indeed there has been some other sources of information in this regard that people have which some of us do not know. I will therefore avoid commenting much on speculations but rather whether is was necessary that our Vice President be an ambassador and whether indeed it is indeed extremely wrong to have her out of that position.
To begin with, the right honourable Joyce Hilda Banda is the first Malawian female Vice President and arguably among the most strong and industrious women the country has ever produced.
During the time that she has served as goodwill ambassador of safe motherhood she has managed to raise millions of Kwacha from the private sector to help in safe motherhood so that the country remains on track to achieving one of the UN Millennium Development Goals of reducing maternal mortality.
Widely involved in politics, Joyce Banda has served several roles, both as a legislator and Minister, before she was appointed incumbent President Dr Bingu wa Mutharika’s Vice during the 2009 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections. Having served as Member of Parliament for Zomba Malosa Constituency, Banda has also served in several portfolios including Minister of Gender, and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Amongst other achievements such as the Africa Prize for Leadership for the Sustainable end of Hunger by new-York based NGO the Hunger Project in 1997 which she shared with the then Mozambican President Joachim Chissano, Joyce Banda is also a widely celebrated female activist who in her lifetime has achieved a variety of great things aimed at further developing the Malawian woman.
The Vice President, our citizen number two, individually, is a force to be reckoned with. Joyce Banda not only has a story, but a legacy to go with it. She remains an inspiration.
To me, to maintain her as goodwill ambassador for ever is a matter of misusing resources. She has shown us what she is able to do and I am sure she can guide the nation how we can achieve more if those opportunities are left open. But maintaining her on this position is almost denying her and Malawians opportunities to see what more she has to offer to her country.
We need to move as a nation, by giving chances to others to learn. Even if she is not the ambassador, I am sure as second in command, in her capacity as Vice President she would still supervise activities of this office and advise where necessary.
Here is a woman so creative and knowledgeable. She has done it whether in business, politics, education and health. For sure she can also do it in other sectors like environment, culture, arts even sports if given a chance. Let other fields also benefit from her capabilities. I would suggest that she is given a chance to initiate things and help as many Malawians as possible learn and participate.
She is already an inspiration to many women and young girls not only in Malawi but far and wide. As we are all proud of her, my judgment is that she has more to offer to this nation than wanting her to cling to one position.
It is not wrong to relieve her of the current position. I look at it as an opportunity for her to concentrate on something different.
Let us also appreciate the fact in her elected capacity; she has a lot to do. It will be unfortunate and unfair to portray to the nation that her actual activity is being an ambassador for safe motherhood.
She is still our vice-president and the position of vice-president, the world over is very demanding... /ends
On Church Boundary
Nkhoma Synod makes a good decision
By Hastings Maloya
Recently there have been debates going on as to whether Malawi is a God-fearing nation or not. While others think, indeed we are a God-fearing nation; other schools of thought are to the contrary. Examples are bound of some deeds that have taken place in the country in recent times that would make one doubt if indeed we are a God-fearing nation. Nevertheless, whether we are or not, it would depend on which side of the debate one chooses to be, but it could be agreeable by all that Malawi is a religious nation.
Despite different beliefs and thoughts, almost all Malawians belong to a certain religious sect. Arguably, most of them are Christians. And Malawi being a religious nation, we have always regarded our religious institutions and religious leaders with respect. We assign to these, the roles of counselor, leader and nation builder.
However, what we have witnesses in the past five years between the Nkhoma and Livingstonia Synods of the CCAP Church have consistently refused to fit into the above roles. News related to the issue about boundaries between the two Synods brought us, observers not any closer to the teachings of Christianity but rather seeds of disunity and division among Christ’s faithful.
The Synods had, to a certain degree chosen, as their calling the defending of privileges of a small constituency other than the unification of these interests with those of the nation as a whole. Through their disagreements on regional boundaries, Malawians have noted use of language that is confrontational, alarmist and divisive turning Christianity into a festering war.
Since necessary information has not been forthcoming as to why the boundary should be an issue between religious groupings, yet of the same CCAP, Malawians have just been left wondering and making assumptions. It has only been leaders at the helm of the two Synods that know the actual reasons for the disagreements and the values associated with them. But lay people like me would wonder why sharing of the word of God should really have boundaries.
If it is due to historic background, then that history should be out of tune. We need to move with time and accept that things do change with time. Actually it could be a sign of laziness to base our arguments on facts that were thought over a decade ago.
This is why I would say finally, common sense has prevailed in the battle of 'areas of influence' between Nkhoma and Livingstonia Synods. A stand taken by the Nkhoma Synod that there need not be any boundaries, though coming in late, is the best and should be applauded.
According to recent media reports, the Nkhoma Synod has given up on the protracted border dispute with the Livingstonia Synod and has adopted a ‘no border’ policy a move that has also been welcomed by the Livingstonia Synod. It is so pleasing to hear that the Synod has made the decision to close the chapter on the boundary matter.
Most Christians believe that human beings experience divine judgment and are rewarded either with eternal life or eternal damnation. Studies indicate that in most countries in the developed world, church attendance among people who continue to identify themselves as Christians has been falling over the last few decades. Some sources view this simply as part of a drift away from traditional membership institutions, while others link it to signs of a decline in belief in the importance of religion in general.
In this regard, the Nkhoma Synod has finally risen to the occasion and is not ready to weaken Christianity and its membership. Surely level-minded people would love to be members of Nkhoma Synod and freely praise the Lord without thinking of a boundary, which in the first place was not even made by spiritual guidance.
And apart from sharing the word of God, the Synod also offer social services.
According to available records, the CCAP Nkhoma Synod was founded in or around 1889 and is one of the major Protestant churches in Malawi. It has over a hundred congregations and over a thousand prayer houses with close to a million members. It also maintains a Theological Training centre, runs a health department and is also responding to the growing HIV/AIDS epidemic. Do we really need a boundary for these services?
In short, over the past years deserving people have been denied services that could have uplifted their livelihoods because of the nonsense that was called Synod boundaries. Though late, the decision by the Nkhoma Synod will, in the next few year benefit Malawi as a whole as resources and services shall be shared to the people regardless of jurisdiction of their stay.
Protestant Christians believe that the Bible is a self-sufficient revelation, the final authority on all Christian doctrine, and revealed all truth necessary for salvation. And most of the entire Bible preaches love and forgiveness. It is unfortunate that in the modern era, Christianity has been confronted with various forms of skepticism and with certain modern political ideologies such as liberalism and recent events have ranged from mere anti-clericalism to violent outbursts.
Surely the decision by the Nkhoma Synod will ensure that peace and co-existence prevail. Our expectations should be that both the Livingstonia and Blantyre Synods also go for a no-boundary policy. Moreover, why should we have a Church of Central Africa that recognises regions and promotes divisions?
We should all acknowledge the fact that the decision by the Nkhoma Synod comes after a long protracted war between the two synods during which the CCAP general Synod tried to mediate using a commission of enquiry to no avail. The decision therefore, cannot be contested as it is not infringing on anyone but giving an opportunity of free choice to people to chose which they think is the best. In this regard it would not be expected that anyone would want to go in any argument or discussions over this decision. The Nkhoma Synod has demonstrated that it is for peace and development.
From this we can learn that there is no argument or disagreement that cannot be resolved. It does not necessarily need to take use of vulgar language or force to see things move in a positive direction. Giving in and accepting change to take natural course is the best way Malawians would lie in co-existence.
Salutations to the Nkhoma Synod for a well thought of decision. It’s a lesson worth learning!
On my wife Emily
The pain of losing a wife Mrs. Emily Maloya 25 March 1975 – 16 January 2010
On Thursday 7th January 2010, as usual I came home at lunch hour and had my beautiful lunch prepared by my wife. We ate together, shared a few jokes as she narrated what has been on the news that day – both radio and TV. Yes she was good at following current affairs. I returned to office a happy man. Who could not, after a good meal?
After work, I passed a PTC shop, met some friends and while we chat, my cell phone rang. It was my wife. As usual, I cut the line so I could call her.
“Hello!” I said with a smile.
“mmmmm,” I noted she was not able to express herself but I got her saying she feel pain on the one side of her body.
I bed farewell to my colleagues and rushed home. There she was indeed in pain.
“But what happened? I mean you were ok just this afternoon,” I was at a loss.
With pain she explained that while she was comfortably chatting with her friends she just felt like something pulling her left side. I noted she was in pains and I called my doctor friend who within a few minutes was around. He administered medication that could lessen the pain before diagnosing what the problem could be. By nine o’clock in the evening, she got better and woke up. She could eat. We suspected malaria but tests proved negative. She was weak yes, but Friday was ok just as Saturday and Sunday. We watched the opening ceremony of the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations together – with her usual love for Cameroon while predicting that Cameroon would win the trophy..
On Monday I noted that she was not okay and I suggested we go to the hospital, a proposal she was not in favour of – “I will be okay Hastings,” she said but I insisted so we left for Mulanje Mission Hospital. She was diagnosed malaria plus 4! The two days of our stay in hospital were not good but on Thursday she was fine and all arrangements were in place for a discharge.
But lo! Evening of Thursday things just changed from nowhere.
I prayed so hard. I asked God to allow my wife live. I did all i could. The medical people did the best they could.
“Talk to me Emily,” I could ask her. She could only smile. I saw my wife failing to eat. Getting weaker by the minute. I noted she had something to say to me but could not manage. Saturday morning 16th January, 2010, Emily breathed last.
“Oh! Lord. Why me?” I cried. “Why me? Why should I be a widower? How about the little girls. Good Lord, why have you accepted that these girls grow without a mother?” yes it as difficult for whoever was around to control my noise.
We travelled to Lilongwe – the most painful trip in my life - on Sunday and burial took place on Monday the 18th January 2010 at Kawale cemetery. I saw those men putting her down into the grave.....
Emily Maloya (nee Kacheula)
She was a wife, a mother, a counsellor, a teacher and the peacemaker. We thank God that she was with us on a strong bond for 14 years without a break. As we celebrate her life and all we gained from her, we ask the Almighty God to rest her in eternal peace.
Hastings, and the daughters Taona-Eva and Tamanda-Eve
VOTE OF THANKS
It is after this dark cloud fell that the families of Maloya and Kacheula realised that we have caring friends and partners. This hard task was made bearable through your support. We thank you all for being with us through out the painful hours both in Mulanje and Lilongwe. Of great mention:
• His Excellency the President Ngwazi Dr Bingu wa Mutharika
• Prof. Etta Banda MP – Minister of Foreign Affairs
• Mrs. Patricia Kaliyati MP – Minister of Gender, Women and Child Development
• The Executive Director, Programme Officers, Management and staff of the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust (MMCT)
• Mulli Brothers Limited
• The Seventh- Day Adventist Church – Mulanje, Chitakale and Kawale
• The National Chairman and the entire executive committee of Mulhako wa Alhomwe
• Mr. Leston Mulli
• Mr. Ahmed Fattani – Fattani Offset Printers
• Mr. Gospel Kazako, Management and staff of Zodiak Broadcasting Station
• Mulanje Well Wishers Group
• Regional Chairman and committee Mulhako wa Alhomwe – South
• Regional Chairman and committee Mulhako wa Alhomwe - Centre
• Regional Chairman and committee Mulhako wa Alhomwe - East
• Chitakale Tea Estate
• Mr. Joseph Mwanamvekha
• Mr. Llyod Muhara
• Mr. Elvis Thodi
• Mr. H. Mathanga
• Mrs. Adhija Elizabeth Nangoma
• Media Council of Malawi
• Mulanje District Football League
• Mr. Daulos Mauambeta & Management of the Wildlife and Environmental Society of Malawi
• The Coordination Union for the Rehabilitation of the Environment (CURE)
• My forum friends (Namisa, Nyasanet, MalawiTalk, Dzimatsapota)
• Medical Staff – Mulanje Mission Hospital
• Amfumu Njedza ndi mudzi wonse wa Njedza
• Friends and relatives too numerous to mention
May our God of possibilities bless you all!
The Year 2010
2010 International Year of Biodiversity
by Hastings Maloya
Happy New year. Yes, we are in a new decade. And the year 2010, which looks a very busy one especially sports wise, is International Year of Biodiversity according to a declaration by the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. For the next twelve months Malawi joins the international community in celebrating biological diversity and boosting awareness of how important it is for our lives.
Biological diversity, or “biodiversity,” refers to the variety and variability among living organisms be it flora and vegetation, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, fish and a variety of other living things. This also includes diversity of ecosystems, species and genes, and the ecological processes that support them.
David Nangoma, programme officer responsible for biodiversity conservation, research and monitoring for the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust (MMCT) says dedication of the year 2010 to celebrate biodiversity is the best way to start the decade.
"The importance of biodiversity as flora and fauna can not be over-emphasized. From a local perspective, it provides the basic livelihoods for the majority of communities as there is provision of virtually everything that nature can provide to mankind", says Nangoma.
Malawi has significant biodiversity as it sits at the crossroads of the East and Central African and Southern African floral and fauna sub regions. it also has a very high human population, the majority living in rural areas and dependant on these biodiversity resources for their survival.
Natural diversity in ecosystems provides essential economic benefits and services to human society - such as food, clothing, shelter, fuel and medicines - as well as ecological, recreational, cultural and aesthetic values, and thus plays an important role in sustainable development.
However, most people, not only in Malawi, but the world over appreciate the beauty of the natural world, but awareness of biodiversity, how seriously it is threatened, and the implications for human well being, is alarmingly low.
This leads to our ecological sites facing threats that include unsustainable resource harvesting, over-harvesting and use, encroachment into the protected areas - sometimes due to population growth, annual damaging forest fires and introduction and/or invasion of alien plant species. Biodiversity is therefore under threat in many areas of the world.
Nangoma says major threats to biodiversity in Malawi and most African countries includes uncontrollable annual forest fires.
"Forest fires have been the main cause of damage to ecosystems that most living things habit. Other threats are encroachment into protected areas by way of establishing settlements and agricultural expansion, which in most cases is due to population growth," observes Nangoma adding that the introduction of some alien invasive plant species has also been of great concern.
Concern about global biodiversity loss has emerged as a prominent and widespread public issue.
According to the United Nations, we need “to see biodiversity at the top of the global agenda, leading to stronger action from all sectors of society including government and industry to safeguard it. To do this we have to show how biodiversity is essential for sustaining our natural living systems—or ecosystem—that provide us with clean air and water, food, building materials, fuel and medicine”.
Throughout the year countless initiatives need to be organized to disseminate information, promote the protection of biodiversity and encourage organizations, institutions, companies and individuals to take direct action to reduce the constant loss of biological diversity worldwide.
Among several others, objectives of the International Year of Biodiversity are to raise awareness of the importance of conserving biodiversity for human well-being and promote understanding of the economic value of biodiversity and to enhance public knowledge of the threats to biodiversity and means to conserve it.
Awareness efforts need to put emphasis on the importance of biodiversity through our values, performance, and communication and engagement. We need to strive to conduct our operations to make sure that everyone understands that humans and the natural environment are interdependent and interact with each other in various ways. In managing our impacts we consider those interrelationships and the functions ecosystems perform in supporting sustainable economic development and seek ways to make positive contributions to biodiversity conservation in areas that we live.
Humans are an integral part of biodiversity and have the power to protect or destroy it. Currently, our activities as humans are destroying the natural world at an unprecedented rate through climate change, habitat destruction, over- harvesting, pollution and many other activities. We’re facing a global species extinction crisis. But there is growing recognition that biological diversity is the lifeblood of sustainable development and human welfare.
Well managed natural resources support peaceful communities, encourage well-balanced economic growth and help reduce poverty. It is therefore our responsibility to join hands as we commemorate the INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF BIODIVERSITY
by Hastings Maloya
Happy New year. Yes, we are in a new decade. And the year 2010, which looks a very busy one especially sports wise, is International Year of Biodiversity according to a declaration by the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. For the next twelve months Malawi joins the international community in celebrating biological diversity and boosting awareness of how important it is for our lives.
Biological diversity, or “biodiversity,” refers to the variety and variability among living organisms be it flora and vegetation, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, fish and a variety of other living things. This also includes diversity of ecosystems, species and genes, and the ecological processes that support them.
David Nangoma, programme officer responsible for biodiversity conservation, research and monitoring for the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust (MMCT) says dedication of the year 2010 to celebrate biodiversity is the best way to start the decade.
"The importance of biodiversity as flora and fauna can not be over-emphasized. From a local perspective, it provides the basic livelihoods for the majority of communities as there is provision of virtually everything that nature can provide to mankind", says Nangoma.
Malawi has significant biodiversity as it sits at the crossroads of the East and Central African and Southern African floral and fauna sub regions. it also has a very high human population, the majority living in rural areas and dependant on these biodiversity resources for their survival.
Natural diversity in ecosystems provides essential economic benefits and services to human society - such as food, clothing, shelter, fuel and medicines - as well as ecological, recreational, cultural and aesthetic values, and thus plays an important role in sustainable development.
However, most people, not only in Malawi, but the world over appreciate the beauty of the natural world, but awareness of biodiversity, how seriously it is threatened, and the implications for human well being, is alarmingly low.
This leads to our ecological sites facing threats that include unsustainable resource harvesting, over-harvesting and use, encroachment into the protected areas - sometimes due to population growth, annual damaging forest fires and introduction and/or invasion of alien plant species. Biodiversity is therefore under threat in many areas of the world.
Nangoma says major threats to biodiversity in Malawi and most African countries includes uncontrollable annual forest fires.
"Forest fires have been the main cause of damage to ecosystems that most living things habit. Other threats are encroachment into protected areas by way of establishing settlements and agricultural expansion, which in most cases is due to population growth," observes Nangoma adding that the introduction of some alien invasive plant species has also been of great concern.
Concern about global biodiversity loss has emerged as a prominent and widespread public issue.
According to the United Nations, we need “to see biodiversity at the top of the global agenda, leading to stronger action from all sectors of society including government and industry to safeguard it. To do this we have to show how biodiversity is essential for sustaining our natural living systems—or ecosystem—that provide us with clean air and water, food, building materials, fuel and medicine”.
Throughout the year countless initiatives need to be organized to disseminate information, promote the protection of biodiversity and encourage organizations, institutions, companies and individuals to take direct action to reduce the constant loss of biological diversity worldwide.
Among several others, objectives of the International Year of Biodiversity are to raise awareness of the importance of conserving biodiversity for human well-being and promote understanding of the economic value of biodiversity and to enhance public knowledge of the threats to biodiversity and means to conserve it.
Awareness efforts need to put emphasis on the importance of biodiversity through our values, performance, and communication and engagement. We need to strive to conduct our operations to make sure that everyone understands that humans and the natural environment are interdependent and interact with each other in various ways. In managing our impacts we consider those interrelationships and the functions ecosystems perform in supporting sustainable economic development and seek ways to make positive contributions to biodiversity conservation in areas that we live.
Humans are an integral part of biodiversity and have the power to protect or destroy it. Currently, our activities as humans are destroying the natural world at an unprecedented rate through climate change, habitat destruction, over- harvesting, pollution and many other activities. We’re facing a global species extinction crisis. But there is growing recognition that biological diversity is the lifeblood of sustainable development and human welfare.
Well managed natural resources support peaceful communities, encourage well-balanced economic growth and help reduce poverty. It is therefore our responsibility to join hands as we commemorate the INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF BIODIVERSITY
Chairing the SADC Environmental Forum
Malawi chairs the SADC Environmental Forum
As appeared on Nyasatimes: http://www.nyasatimes.com/national/malawi-chairs-the-sadc-environmental-forum.html
The Southern Africa CBNRM Forum (SACF) elected Malawian, Hastings Maloya of Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust as its new chairman.
According to Godfrey Mitti, Regional Coordinator of WWF Regional CBNRM Program southern Africa, Maloya, a re-known journalist and environmental practitioner was unanimously voted chairperson at the regional meeting that took place at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe last week. And is to hold the position for two years.
He succeeded Ms Rosina Masilo-Ragkoasi of Botswana.
Countries in the forum include Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, South Africa and Namibia. In the coming year, Tanzania and Angola will be roped.
“This is a great honour to Malawi. As a country we are making strides in natural resource management environmental conservation, and this is a vote of recognition,” said Maloya.
He said during his chairmanship, he will stride to make sure that local leaders are more involved in community-based natural resource management.
“Indigenous knowledge would be the best way if we are to manage our resources. We need to focus on local leaders and get them involved,” he said.
The 2009 TVM Awards
The 2009 TVM Awards Analysis
by Hastings Maloya
They changed their slogan from "The Station for the Nation" to "Creating a World of Possibilities" and within a year Malawi Television (TVM) has slowly proven itself as one of the best TV stations in the SADC Region. They went on satelite, giving an opportunity to Malawians in other countries like Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Mozambique to watch their local TV channel. They brought in new personalities and new programming.
From their live "Good Morning Malawi" programme, to musical ones, religious, sports, cultural and then news bulletins, Malawi Television is now a family channel. They may have a lot more to improve but given the local situation, with limited resources and the political environment, TVM is worth watching. And they bring in new things and surprises.
Mid October 2009, an advert appeared on Malawi Television. It talked about the 2009 TVM Awards. The advert talked of plans to honour and award Malawians "Who have selflessly contributed to serving others without them realising". Most Malawians could not understand what these awards will really be about. It took time for TVM to exactly say what they had in stor for Malawi.
Mid December, TVM announced the date of the awards and the venue. Entry fees at MK15, 000 in advance and MK20, 000 on the door seemed on the higher side. But they must have done good marketing. Several companies came forward to support the event and the hall at the College of Medicine Sports Complex could not take all the prospective patrons. State President, Dr Bingu wa Mutharika was guest of honour.
The event, which was broadcast live on television was spiced by the perfomance of South African gospel diva, Rabecca Malope, Mganda dancers from Nkhatabay, Police Band and Joseph Tembo with his Groove Magic band.
Toast of the night was the awarding of the achievers in waht has to be labbled "the 2009 TVM 2009 Our People Our Pride Awards. The choice od awardees, which among others included a Mr Mkandawire who constructed a suspended Bridge in Rumphi, the guy who caught the Nachipanti vampire in Ndirande, the Pastor who started the orphan centre where Madonna adopted David. Stories associated with each awardeee were inspiring and so moving.
Wilson Moleni,a banker in Mzuzu says the show was beyond his expectations. He said he never expected something of that magnitude to take place in Malawi adding, it was inspiring especially on the ordinary Malawians that were awarded.
"It was a marvel to watch live on television. being the first of its kind, surely TVM has set a record and it will have a tough time to beat its own record it has set, said Moleni adding: "I liked the orderly flow of the events, including the effects that went with them."
And in his remarks, Acting Director General of Television Malawi Bright Malopa, said this was only a biggining of this to come, to which he received a round of applause maybe with the audience accepting that TVM is indeed creating a world of posibilities.
President Mutharika, whose BENITH Trust was the main sponsor said he was excited that ordinary Malawians could be recognised in this manner. He also pledged to support a 15-year old orphan who was among the award receipients with school and other basic needs.
Zimbabwean music icon, Oliver Mtukudzi was also supposed to perform but failed to come at the last minute due to sickness. but that did not affect the tone of the event.
The awards ceremony dwarfs other sort of events including the famous Entertainers of the year programme on Malawi Broadcasting Corporation.
by Hastings Maloya
They changed their slogan from "The Station for the Nation" to "Creating a World of Possibilities" and within a year Malawi Television (TVM) has slowly proven itself as one of the best TV stations in the SADC Region. They went on satelite, giving an opportunity to Malawians in other countries like Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Mozambique to watch their local TV channel. They brought in new personalities and new programming.
From their live "Good Morning Malawi" programme, to musical ones, religious, sports, cultural and then news bulletins, Malawi Television is now a family channel. They may have a lot more to improve but given the local situation, with limited resources and the political environment, TVM is worth watching. And they bring in new things and surprises.
Mid October 2009, an advert appeared on Malawi Television. It talked about the 2009 TVM Awards. The advert talked of plans to honour and award Malawians "Who have selflessly contributed to serving others without them realising". Most Malawians could not understand what these awards will really be about. It took time for TVM to exactly say what they had in stor for Malawi.
Mid December, TVM announced the date of the awards and the venue. Entry fees at MK15, 000 in advance and MK20, 000 on the door seemed on the higher side. But they must have done good marketing. Several companies came forward to support the event and the hall at the College of Medicine Sports Complex could not take all the prospective patrons. State President, Dr Bingu wa Mutharika was guest of honour.
The event, which was broadcast live on television was spiced by the perfomance of South African gospel diva, Rabecca Malope, Mganda dancers from Nkhatabay, Police Band and Joseph Tembo with his Groove Magic band.
Toast of the night was the awarding of the achievers in waht has to be labbled "the 2009 TVM 2009 Our People Our Pride Awards. The choice od awardees, which among others included a Mr Mkandawire who constructed a suspended Bridge in Rumphi, the guy who caught the Nachipanti vampire in Ndirande, the Pastor who started the orphan centre where Madonna adopted David. Stories associated with each awardeee were inspiring and so moving.
Wilson Moleni,a banker in Mzuzu says the show was beyond his expectations. He said he never expected something of that magnitude to take place in Malawi adding, it was inspiring especially on the ordinary Malawians that were awarded.
"It was a marvel to watch live on television. being the first of its kind, surely TVM has set a record and it will have a tough time to beat its own record it has set, said Moleni adding: "I liked the orderly flow of the events, including the effects that went with them."
And in his remarks, Acting Director General of Television Malawi Bright Malopa, said this was only a biggining of this to come, to which he received a round of applause maybe with the audience accepting that TVM is indeed creating a world of posibilities.
President Mutharika, whose BENITH Trust was the main sponsor said he was excited that ordinary Malawians could be recognised in this manner. He also pledged to support a 15-year old orphan who was among the award receipients with school and other basic needs.
Zimbabwean music icon, Oliver Mtukudzi was also supposed to perform but failed to come at the last minute due to sickness. but that did not affect the tone of the event.
The awards ceremony dwarfs other sort of events including the famous Entertainers of the year programme on Malawi Broadcasting Corporation.
On Cultural Dances
Dances are the core of culture
by Hastings Maloya
A day to remember - yes, a day that will go into the history books as a turning point when local dances that were almost dead resurfaced! This was through the Mount Mulanje traditional dance competition that took place on Friday the 27th March, at the Mulanje Community Centre Ground. Being the first time such an event had ever taken place, it was sufficiently interesting and likely to be remembered.
It was a rare occasion that brought together people from all walks of life, regardless of political or religious affiliations and appreciated culture. A day filled with sounds of traditionally-made drums and lovely hand clapping with participating groups in costumes and attire befitting the dances in their originality.
The competition, which was strictly for adults, those aged from 25 and above, was organised by the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust through its environmental education and awareness programme as a way of raising awareness on natural resource and environmental management. A total of 20 dancing groups from all over Mulanje district participated in the competition with dances ranging from Soopa, Gololombe, Jiri, Likwata, Visekhere, Chomanga, Dodo, Mganda, Manganje, Masalimo to Namunasini.
Through several awareness and educational activities, MMCT would like to encourage greater participation by the local communities in managing the Mulanje Mountain forest reserve and facilitate sustainable means of increasing benefits that people derive from it. And this competition just perfectly fitted in.
“Apart from raising awareness of the importance of Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve, this competition has assisted in acknowledging and improving the rich diversity of culture in Mulanje and also the development of tourism in the district,” said the District Commissioner for Mulanje Rev. Mosses Chimphepo. Rev. Chimphepo said he was excited that such an event brought people together to share joy and laughter, which he said was good for development.
No wonder the event attracted sponsorship from Malawi Savings Bank (MSB) that provided prizes to the winning groups. The Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust provided MK5, 000 to each of the 20 participating groups while the bank provided actual prizes to winning groups through the opening of bank accounts. The bank gave prizes to a total of MK100, 000 to five winning groups.
After scrutinising the performances a group of six judges came with a verdict that saw Manyamba Troupe with their Soopa dance scooping the first position and walked away with a K30, 000 bank account seconded by Gawani Traditional Dance with their Manganje dance and got K25, 000. On position three was Nancocho Club with Namunasini dance and were proud recipients of K20, 000 while Maliyera group with Dodo dance was on position four and got K15, 000; and Msuka dancers got K10, 000 for being on position five.
And in his remarks, MSB Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Joseph Mwanamvekha, said the Bank is proud to be associated with the promotion of culture and traditional values of the people of Malawi. He thanked the Trust for organising the event and said the Bank is excited to support the groups to sustain themselves economically hence the offer to open accounts for them.
“Our bank, which has branches in all the districts of Malawi is not discriminatory. We wanted everyone to have the power of investment and groups like these are the owners of the bank. It is my hope that after opening the bank accounts, your groups will be sustained”, said Mr. Mwanamvekha.
Mr. Mwanamvekha, who is also the National Chairperson for Mulhako wa Alhomwe, a Lhomwe cultural heritage group, emphasised on the importance of traditional dances in preservation of culture. At this point he said this competition can be looked at a starting point. He observed that over the years, Malawian were starting to believe that entertainment meant bringing into the country a foreign band when we have rich and diversity of local entertainment.
People that attended the ceremony included school children, government officials, international guests, tourists, representatives of the NGO community, the civil society and the general public.
The participating groups were asked to compose songs that raise awareness on natural resource and environmental management – with focus on the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve. A group of six judges was tasked to come up with winners putting in consideration consistence, composition of songs, originality of the dance, the message and the general entertainment. All songs were expected to talk of the importance of conservation.
And in his remarks, the guest of honour, Paramount Chief Mkhumba thanked both MMCT and MSB for recognising the local talent and facilitating the bringing out of dances that were about to be forgotten.
“Jiri is my favourite dance. It was almost gone but today we have revived it,” said the excited Chief Mkhumba while asking the organisers to consider making this an annual event. “We are reminded of our days. This is what our children need to be taught and encouraged to participate,” said the chief. He called on teachers and education officials to encourage children to organise and dance traditional dances than adopting foreign dances like kwasakwasa.
And the journey has just started….. the Trust wants this to be an annual event and the Bank wants it too!
On Beer Promotion
Big companies and the abuse on girls
By Hastings Maloya
The time is 11.30pm and I am having my favourite Carlsberg Stout at a place called Green Bird – of course there are no green-coloured birds there – in Liwonde (Mangochi Turn Off). This was after a long day in the forests of Machinga and lengthy discussions with chiefs and local leaders. Twenty-three minutes later, when I was on my second cold one, a green minibus pulls by. Very intoxicated young people jumps out, makes a lot of unnecessary noise – maybe to attract attention of everyone present. The misguided youths, as I saw them, do not even have the sense to seek permission from the owners of the venue before doing whatever stupid thing they have brought.
Yes, they are on a promotion. They want your views whether you love the latest Kadansana which has been branded by a new name Elephant, or the sugary-heavy-and-not-interesting Gold or the beautiful-name-for-nothing Classic. They do not mind whether you are interested to partake or not but they need your attention. Here they are, taking out their belongings from the minibus, prizes, whatever-it-is and they are all over for a talk yes.
I thought I was comfortable to enjoy my Stout after having a beautiful supper of Nsima with local chicken at one of the local restaurants. Oh no! There comes a girl with all the minutiae looking for information. I am a journalist and a development worker – I said to myself and remembered that in most cases I also seek info… why should I not give it now when someone needs it? The interview has not yet finished – only realising that the girl was so drunk! Time now is 12.43 (am!)
Wow, I learnt in the course of the discussion that the girl is less than 20 years old – actually 19. So sozzled that in the prattle of the discussion she does not know what she is talking about.
“But why are you so drunk?” I ask
“Don’t you know that I am promoting a beer? Mutu wanu ukugwira?” she asks.
“How many bottles have you taken?” I asked. Didn’t want to show her that I am annoyed
“Ndauyamba mmamawa,” she says as reaches her bottle for a sip, “where do you leave? “She asks.
“I stay in Mulanje I am only here on duty”, I politely respond.
“Ah! Mulanje?” she shouts
“Yes, Mulanje” I said with a smile.
“Ah, we were there. Mulanje boarder, Chikumbe Motel, Mulanje Motel, View Motel, Chididi, Chris Corner, Blue Gum! Hahahahah! We did not sleep when we were in MJ… iii and ndinauchapa! Pa Small Ville was the place I liked most” – I was so interested the way the girl could know and describe Mulanje better than myself.
She told me of the bottle stores that she has been to. Its been Mulanje, Phalombe, Thyolo, Blantyre, Zomba, what what what……. I was so amazed. But then she really had info to her fingertips about the 40th celebration of Carlsberg birthday.
Ok, the promotion ran, competitions held and I only won an opener (a bottle opener).
See now, the girl rushes to get into a minibus – now on their way to Mangochi! I said oh! My God.
I was left there dumbfounded. What is Carlsberg up to? There I realised that on the trip, there were also journalists – taken to report on the promotion – yes promoting the promotion and reporting on the beers and beer drinking. I wondered if my fellow journalists noted the abuse on the girls.
But then I changed the feelings:
My thoughts:
1. I thought of the girls’ parents. How could they allow this small girl to go on a beer promotion trip. What do they expect out of her at the end of the day? Is it due to poverty? Kaya.
2. I thought of women and youth organisations – are they aware of these abuses?
3. I thought of us journalists. Shall we just jump on these promotions or we can also look at the other side of the same and write features for the sake of our nation?
4. Then I thought of Carlsberg and noted that it is one of the richest companies in Malawi. As it celebrates 40 years of existence why not offer scholarships to girls that seem have nothing to do after completing Form Four? Why not sponsoring those girls on a “BACK to SCHOOL promotion”?
5. Zoona Carlsberg celebrating 40 years by giving out ma T-shirt? Zipewa ndi ma opener? Braii stand? Asa! Bwanji osapanga re-launch Carlsberg Cup?
6. Or maybe we journalists, maybe we can advocate for a different promotion that will be nation-friendly. Yes we can put up a proposal – hoping Carlsberg has a listening ear.
7. Why can’t they use the 40 years of celebration to help in tree planting? We are in the tree planting season. They could again make Malawi a little greener with Green.
By Hastings Maloya
The time is 11.30pm and I am having my favourite Carlsberg Stout at a place called Green Bird – of course there are no green-coloured birds there – in Liwonde (Mangochi Turn Off). This was after a long day in the forests of Machinga and lengthy discussions with chiefs and local leaders. Twenty-three minutes later, when I was on my second cold one, a green minibus pulls by. Very intoxicated young people jumps out, makes a lot of unnecessary noise – maybe to attract attention of everyone present. The misguided youths, as I saw them, do not even have the sense to seek permission from the owners of the venue before doing whatever stupid thing they have brought.
Yes, they are on a promotion. They want your views whether you love the latest Kadansana which has been branded by a new name Elephant, or the sugary-heavy-and-not-interesting Gold or the beautiful-name-for-nothing Classic. They do not mind whether you are interested to partake or not but they need your attention. Here they are, taking out their belongings from the minibus, prizes, whatever-it-is and they are all over for a talk yes.
I thought I was comfortable to enjoy my Stout after having a beautiful supper of Nsima with local chicken at one of the local restaurants. Oh no! There comes a girl with all the minutiae looking for information. I am a journalist and a development worker – I said to myself and remembered that in most cases I also seek info… why should I not give it now when someone needs it? The interview has not yet finished – only realising that the girl was so drunk! Time now is 12.43 (am!)
Wow, I learnt in the course of the discussion that the girl is less than 20 years old – actually 19. So sozzled that in the prattle of the discussion she does not know what she is talking about.
“But why are you so drunk?” I ask
“Don’t you know that I am promoting a beer? Mutu wanu ukugwira?” she asks.
“How many bottles have you taken?” I asked. Didn’t want to show her that I am annoyed
“Ndauyamba mmamawa,” she says as reaches her bottle for a sip, “where do you leave? “She asks.
“I stay in Mulanje I am only here on duty”, I politely respond.
“Ah! Mulanje?” she shouts
“Yes, Mulanje” I said with a smile.
“Ah, we were there. Mulanje boarder, Chikumbe Motel, Mulanje Motel, View Motel, Chididi, Chris Corner, Blue Gum! Hahahahah! We did not sleep when we were in MJ… iii and ndinauchapa! Pa Small Ville was the place I liked most” – I was so interested the way the girl could know and describe Mulanje better than myself.
She told me of the bottle stores that she has been to. Its been Mulanje, Phalombe, Thyolo, Blantyre, Zomba, what what what……. I was so amazed. But then she really had info to her fingertips about the 40th celebration of Carlsberg birthday.
Ok, the promotion ran, competitions held and I only won an opener (a bottle opener).
See now, the girl rushes to get into a minibus – now on their way to Mangochi! I said oh! My God.
I was left there dumbfounded. What is Carlsberg up to? There I realised that on the trip, there were also journalists – taken to report on the promotion – yes promoting the promotion and reporting on the beers and beer drinking. I wondered if my fellow journalists noted the abuse on the girls.
But then I changed the feelings:
My thoughts:
1. I thought of the girls’ parents. How could they allow this small girl to go on a beer promotion trip. What do they expect out of her at the end of the day? Is it due to poverty? Kaya.
2. I thought of women and youth organisations – are they aware of these abuses?
3. I thought of us journalists. Shall we just jump on these promotions or we can also look at the other side of the same and write features for the sake of our nation?
4. Then I thought of Carlsberg and noted that it is one of the richest companies in Malawi. As it celebrates 40 years of existence why not offer scholarships to girls that seem have nothing to do after completing Form Four? Why not sponsoring those girls on a “BACK to SCHOOL promotion”?
5. Zoona Carlsberg celebrating 40 years by giving out ma T-shirt? Zipewa ndi ma opener? Braii stand? Asa! Bwanji osapanga re-launch Carlsberg Cup?
6. Or maybe we journalists, maybe we can advocate for a different promotion that will be nation-friendly. Yes we can put up a proposal – hoping Carlsberg has a listening ear.
7. Why can’t they use the 40 years of celebration to help in tree planting? We are in the tree planting season. They could again make Malawi a little greener with Green.
On Clerk of Parliament
Let Matilda Katopola stay
By Hastings Maloya
For the third year running we have not had our national budget on time, a situation that has put all of us in a predicament since we all rely on the budget for guidance in whatever we are engaged in. What has been difficult to understand is why a country thus 44 years old but still very poor should choose to prioritise politics and not development. Why do we still have members of parliament that do not see the importance of the budget to the nation? If indeed it is politics, then the politics in Malawi is not exciting at all.
All along we were told that the opposition is refusing the budget until their demands for the implementation of Section 65 are met. We have heard about Section 65 so long now that it’s no longer an exhilarating issue for discussion. And when parliament met this time round, we were still expecting that the section will be mentioned so we were only waiting for the way forward.
Then came an issue of a memorandum of understanding. The opposition parties threatened to reject the 2008/09 national budget if President Bingu wa Mutharika's government does not sign a so-called memorandum of understanding (MOU) put forward by the country's clergy as a way forward to narrow the political gap existing in parliament between the two sides.
But things came to a shocking change when the opposition found another reason to make government dance for the budget to pass.
The opposition members of parliament demanded that the Clerk of Parliament Matilda Katopola be sacked before the budget was discussed and passed. The opposition political leaders pilled pressure on government to adopt a resolution to remove the clerk of parliament following reports that Katopola, Malawi’s first female Clerk of Parliament, dubiously awarded a contract to her company Monics Trends to supply printing services to parliament.
Some opposition members of parliament were quote in the press saying that they would be surprised if government allows the clerk to continue working. Their argument was that this would give an interpretation that the authorities (i.e. government) are promoting corruption and bribery. What a lousy argument.
Meanwhile, government has declared that it would not implement the parliament's decision and I say well done government. And please do not remove her. Let her stay at parliament.
The demands by the opposing parliamentarians are irresponsible and out of context putting in mind that the issue of Katopola was discussed, an investigation completed and results made public. The country’s President Dr Bingu wa Mutharika acknowledged and forgave her. This does not mean that she was not wrong and naturally she must have regretted her wrong doing and one wonders why forgiving someone has now become a sin.
The resistance by government on this immature demand is commendable because it is obvious that the said Clerk of Parliament's financial impropriety was just a scapegoat by the opposition. The real reason for her woes, could be - as we have now learned - her refusal to allow MPs have unsorted loans and her demands that MPs travel economy class and not business class on international assignments. She is on the wrong side because of her prudent financial management at parliament. We even once heard that some ‘honourable’ members were threatening to beat her up. How silly!
In any case, if indeed the issue is that Katopola is in the wrong, why is her wrong doing attached to the national budget? What is the relationship? Why should people suffer in hospitals for lack of medicines or civil servants struggling to receive their salaries simply because some misguided members of parliament are demanding the firing of a single individual? And which government department would be willing to welcome such an individual in a situation that she is being removed?
We have also learnt from reliable and knowledgeable sources that the matter of hiring, firing or disciplining the clerk of parliament belongs to the executive arm of the government and not the legislature. One therefore wonders why or parliamentarians get excited with issues. As it has already been observed elsewhere, if indeed the disgruntled MPs were not happy with the President’s decision to forgive and reinstate Katopola, the proper thing for the parliamentarians to do was to go to court and to seek a judicial review and challenge the decision. But that they wasted our time voting and tying Katopola’s removal to the national budget, is the last thing a compassionate Malawian would appreciate.
And for argument sake, who among our opposition MPs is clean of theft, bribery and corruption? I can challenge the Mps that if we were to take to task each and every one of them, we will discover a lot of anomalies in the way they have handled financial matters but they have the audacity to corner one Matilda Katopola.
Just an example, I wish our members of parliament could account for the treadle pumps they received to where they went, who is using them and how much they have contributed to crop harvest in their respective constituencies. It will be interesting to realise that some of them might have sold some of them and cannot even tell what the proceedings were used for. How many of our MPs can account for the allocated constituency funds?
I wish our parliamentarians could be aware of how many youths and women in their constituencies that do not have any source of employment and what they are doing about it. I wish they could show us initiatives that they are putting in place to help their people both economically and socially.
We are supposed to be proud that we are probably the only country in the region with a female clerk of parliament. Katopola is young and she has already proven that she is brave and intelligent. It has proven that Dr Mutharika’s choice was marvellous. She needs our support and guidance. We must accept that as an individual she can make mistakes and all we need to do is to correct her and correct her only when our sense of correction is in good faith and not out of sheer jealousy and ill will as we have noted in this recent occurrence.
Kotopola, just as the Attorney General Jane Ansah and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Esther Cheka Chilenje, just to mention a few are models among our young girls. She has inspired many and it would be a bad decision to remove her from parliament. I urge the government not to bow down to these crazy demands for the sake of our country.
MPs are only voted into power. They do not go through any meaningful interviews and most of them will not win the next election so should they put our deserved women in situations thus not conducive? Thus far from nation building.
Katopola must not be removed from parliament. She has brought discipline and she needs more time to bring even more changes. More-over the people, who are making the wild demands, are only doing it because Katopola is a woman. A real man is not praised for torturing women but giving them love and guidance. Our opposition parliamentarians, mostly men, have miserably failed on this one. They have only managed to put our country to shame
Here are members of parliament who have miserably failed to bring any meaningful development in their areas and failed to support the current government to help their people and are here loud-mouthed for the removal of a clerk of parliament and indeed shamelessly tying that demand to the national budget. And these people will only be in parliament for the next eight months and they want to leave parliament in shambles. We can’t accept that.
Let Matilda Katopola stay.
*Hastings Maloya works for the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust but is writing in his personal capacity
By Hastings Maloya
For the third year running we have not had our national budget on time, a situation that has put all of us in a predicament since we all rely on the budget for guidance in whatever we are engaged in. What has been difficult to understand is why a country thus 44 years old but still very poor should choose to prioritise politics and not development. Why do we still have members of parliament that do not see the importance of the budget to the nation? If indeed it is politics, then the politics in Malawi is not exciting at all.
All along we were told that the opposition is refusing the budget until their demands for the implementation of Section 65 are met. We have heard about Section 65 so long now that it’s no longer an exhilarating issue for discussion. And when parliament met this time round, we were still expecting that the section will be mentioned so we were only waiting for the way forward.
Then came an issue of a memorandum of understanding. The opposition parties threatened to reject the 2008/09 national budget if President Bingu wa Mutharika's government does not sign a so-called memorandum of understanding (MOU) put forward by the country's clergy as a way forward to narrow the political gap existing in parliament between the two sides.
But things came to a shocking change when the opposition found another reason to make government dance for the budget to pass.
The opposition members of parliament demanded that the Clerk of Parliament Matilda Katopola be sacked before the budget was discussed and passed. The opposition political leaders pilled pressure on government to adopt a resolution to remove the clerk of parliament following reports that Katopola, Malawi’s first female Clerk of Parliament, dubiously awarded a contract to her company Monics Trends to supply printing services to parliament.
Some opposition members of parliament were quote in the press saying that they would be surprised if government allows the clerk to continue working. Their argument was that this would give an interpretation that the authorities (i.e. government) are promoting corruption and bribery. What a lousy argument.
Meanwhile, government has declared that it would not implement the parliament's decision and I say well done government. And please do not remove her. Let her stay at parliament.
The demands by the opposing parliamentarians are irresponsible and out of context putting in mind that the issue of Katopola was discussed, an investigation completed and results made public. The country’s President Dr Bingu wa Mutharika acknowledged and forgave her. This does not mean that she was not wrong and naturally she must have regretted her wrong doing and one wonders why forgiving someone has now become a sin.
The resistance by government on this immature demand is commendable because it is obvious that the said Clerk of Parliament's financial impropriety was just a scapegoat by the opposition. The real reason for her woes, could be - as we have now learned - her refusal to allow MPs have unsorted loans and her demands that MPs travel economy class and not business class on international assignments. She is on the wrong side because of her prudent financial management at parliament. We even once heard that some ‘honourable’ members were threatening to beat her up. How silly!
In any case, if indeed the issue is that Katopola is in the wrong, why is her wrong doing attached to the national budget? What is the relationship? Why should people suffer in hospitals for lack of medicines or civil servants struggling to receive their salaries simply because some misguided members of parliament are demanding the firing of a single individual? And which government department would be willing to welcome such an individual in a situation that she is being removed?
We have also learnt from reliable and knowledgeable sources that the matter of hiring, firing or disciplining the clerk of parliament belongs to the executive arm of the government and not the legislature. One therefore wonders why or parliamentarians get excited with issues. As it has already been observed elsewhere, if indeed the disgruntled MPs were not happy with the President’s decision to forgive and reinstate Katopola, the proper thing for the parliamentarians to do was to go to court and to seek a judicial review and challenge the decision. But that they wasted our time voting and tying Katopola’s removal to the national budget, is the last thing a compassionate Malawian would appreciate.
And for argument sake, who among our opposition MPs is clean of theft, bribery and corruption? I can challenge the Mps that if we were to take to task each and every one of them, we will discover a lot of anomalies in the way they have handled financial matters but they have the audacity to corner one Matilda Katopola.
Just an example, I wish our members of parliament could account for the treadle pumps they received to where they went, who is using them and how much they have contributed to crop harvest in their respective constituencies. It will be interesting to realise that some of them might have sold some of them and cannot even tell what the proceedings were used for. How many of our MPs can account for the allocated constituency funds?
I wish our parliamentarians could be aware of how many youths and women in their constituencies that do not have any source of employment and what they are doing about it. I wish they could show us initiatives that they are putting in place to help their people both economically and socially.
We are supposed to be proud that we are probably the only country in the region with a female clerk of parliament. Katopola is young and she has already proven that she is brave and intelligent. It has proven that Dr Mutharika’s choice was marvellous. She needs our support and guidance. We must accept that as an individual she can make mistakes and all we need to do is to correct her and correct her only when our sense of correction is in good faith and not out of sheer jealousy and ill will as we have noted in this recent occurrence.
Kotopola, just as the Attorney General Jane Ansah and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Esther Cheka Chilenje, just to mention a few are models among our young girls. She has inspired many and it would be a bad decision to remove her from parliament. I urge the government not to bow down to these crazy demands for the sake of our country.
MPs are only voted into power. They do not go through any meaningful interviews and most of them will not win the next election so should they put our deserved women in situations thus not conducive? Thus far from nation building.
Katopola must not be removed from parliament. She has brought discipline and she needs more time to bring even more changes. More-over the people, who are making the wild demands, are only doing it because Katopola is a woman. A real man is not praised for torturing women but giving them love and guidance. Our opposition parliamentarians, mostly men, have miserably failed on this one. They have only managed to put our country to shame
Here are members of parliament who have miserably failed to bring any meaningful development in their areas and failed to support the current government to help their people and are here loud-mouthed for the removal of a clerk of parliament and indeed shamelessly tying that demand to the national budget. And these people will only be in parliament for the next eight months and they want to leave parliament in shambles. We can’t accept that.
Let Matilda Katopola stay.
*Hastings Maloya works for the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust but is writing in his personal capacity
Chiefs’ educational visit to Thyolo Mountain
Chiefs’ educational visit to Thyolo Mountain
By Hastings Maloya
Forests and mountains in Malawi are now in a desperate situation. Forest destruction across the country continues at a wildfire pace, seemingly uncontrolled and ignored. Sadly, there is little concerted political or governmental response to this loss. Short-term gains of fuel-wood and charcoal availability are soon overshadowed by the complete deprivation of an extensive range of resources and services that our mountains traditionally offered. Bare hills stand stark testament to a tragic irresponsibility that we are all accountable for if we do not choose now to actively work together to counter and then reverse this process of destruction.
The Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve is currently facing serious problems ranging from uncontrolled and illegal harvesting of forest resources, encroachment and annual bush fires. Deforestation is on an increase, a situation that would lead to serious problems if not checked. It is behind this observation that the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust (MMCT) through its Environmental Education, Awareness and Communications Programme organized and facilitated a two-day educational visit for chiefs from Mulanje and Phalombe to Thyolo Mountain. This trip was meant for the chiefs to appreciate the current sorry situation that Thyolo Mountain is in and for them to have a developmental interaction with their colleagues (chiefs) from Thyolo district.
Many people, just as the chiefs and local leaders, view the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve as solely a source of natural resources to benefit from; they rarely question the aftermath effects of overuse or abuse of such resources. It is therefore imperative that chiefs, as leaders and to a certain degree owners of the people and land, develop a genuine appreciation for the mountain and the reserve so that they can understand what implications their actions may have on it.
Malawi today has many other mountain forests that are in the process of disappearing entirely and silently. One example of such reserves that lost its resource glory is Thyolo Mountain, which not long ago was a beautiful forest reserve and today it is completely bare with no hope remaining in it. Mt Mulanje is in no way being spared as a victim in this national crisis. Production of charcoal and timber are the main threats. The trip by chiefs to Thyolo was therefore meant to open the chiefs’ eyes and call for action.
Summary
This was a two-day visit by chiefs from Mulanje and Phalombe to Thyolo. The trip was organised with close working relationship with the District Forest Officer and in co-operation with the District Forestry Officer for Thyolo. History, both written and oral, tells us that Thyolo Mountain once had a thick forest reserve and was among Malawi’s pride natural indigenous forest reserves. Over the years people started encroaching into the reserve by cutting down trees for various uses and also opening gardens for cultivation. This went on at uncontrolled pace to a point that the entire forest reserve was wiped out. Today, the mountain a bare land with farms established and buildings constructed in areas that are still a forest reserve.
On the agricultural front, people produce bananas from the forest reserve apart from other farm produces. This has mainly affected the water table and the dryness of most rivers that has/had their sources from Thyolo Mountain. One of the main rivers that supply water to the entire Thyolo urban community is Suwadzi, which is now drying up. There is a lot of sand that is now being produced by Suwadzi River, as a result of serious soil erosion that has taken place over the years.
It was imperative therefore to take the Mulanje Chiefs to Thyolo to see for themselves the situation that the mountain is in and have a feel of what would happen to the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve if the current destruction process is not checked. Again, Thyolo and Mulanje are close districts and share similar geographical features with similar challenges. Traditionally, the chiefs from the three districts (Mulanje, Thyolo and Phalombe) share similar cultural beliefs so it was good to bring them together.
A representative of the chiefs from Thyolo, who were 13 in number, Group Village Headman Maonga welcomed the colleagues from Mulanje and Phalombe and asked them to feel at home. He also thanked MMCT for facilitating the visit, which he said came at the most opportune time. He said this was a very important meeting not only for natural resource management but also to cement relationship between the districts. The chief reminded his colleagues that education is not only about being in class but that traveling from one place to another is a great eye opener.
During the visit, it was indeed noted that Thyolo Mountain once had a beautiful and thick forest reserve. The first leg of the tour took us into Mianga Tea Estates towards the mountain where the other side we saw the deforested part of the mountain and on the other side, there is the only remaining forest that is managed by the tea estate.
Looking at the only managed forest, the thicket of the trees, and the natural beauty it is giving against the other devastated area, it is a worrisome site on the damage thus caused by the careless use of natural resources. But it was also noted during the informal discussions that the tea estates can also be blamed on encroachment as it was noted that there was too much land with tea, maybe giving little land for cultivation for local people who might have resorted in encroaching into the reserve.
Chiefs from Thyolo explained that until around 1968 the Thyolo Forest Reserve was so thick that not a single person could dare enter it. They noted that it just started like a joke when people started cutting down trees for timber. At uncontrolled rate, it happened that with time, all the trees went and people started opening gardens and now constructing houses and different other buildings.
The biggest worry now is that Thyolo Mountain is no longer able to produce and give water to the people of Thyolo as it used to do. Meanwhile Thyolo is suffering with water shortages with the district headquarters mainly affected.
Ironically, the bare Thyolo Mountains is saving the nation with latest technologies. Towers for both cellular phones and FM radio stations stand tall on the mountain.
There are indeed challenges in managing forest reserves, in particular, matters concerning non-availability of management plans, encroachment, charcoal production, illegal harvesting of firewood, rampant corruption, shortage of financial and human resources, annual bush fires, poor maintenance of infrastructure, and now a dire need to involve local stakeholders. The idea of searching for a more effective way of doing things implies that we are aware of the deficiencies attending the present arrangement and that we wish to make improvements. We are all aware that we live in difficult times where environmental degradation in general is accelerating at unprecedented rates.
On President Mutharika as Minister of Agriculture
Bingu needs not step down
By Hastings Maloya
Democracy in Malawi is steadily coming of age as is manifested by the freedoms that include the freedom to speak ones mind without reprisals. Gone are the days when young democrats were almost rulers as they could create an environment of intimidation and torture. Yes Malawians were not able to speak their minds lest one was asking for a rain of blows in case what you said was not in line with the thinking of the ruling clique.
Today people of different political thoughts and beliefs are able to sit together, enjoy, laugh and agree to disagree on various matters. People are free to be quote in the media regardless of the issue they would like to bring forth. Things do change over time indeed.
This freedom of expression is very good though to a certain degree it leads us to say things thus irrelevant to our society and negative to the development of our country.
This brings me to the subject of debate today. Some politicians and analysts say President Bingu wa Mutharika needs to step down or resign as minister of agriculture because according to their thinking, Dr Mutharika has failed to run the ministry. They single out the main reason for the ‘failure’ as being busy with the office of head of state.
The said politicians and analysts say the fertilizer subsidy programme has not gone well. In case that is true, instead of coming out with possible reasons that may have led to the problem, they only suggest the removal of Dr Mutharika as minister responsible. Seems they could have expected the minister to be at every fertilizer selling point in Malawi or he was supposed to be seen distributing coupons himself to qualify as performing his duties.
I find this very unfortunate and unhelpful.
These opposition politicians let alone the analysts, to me seem to be attention seekers, just excited to have their names and pictures seen in newspapers or their voices heard on radios. They are not for national building. They were around when parliament took ages to approve the budget for this financial year. They know it took several months of discussing the budget, indications of it being refused and all the drama that was associated with it. So here are our commentators who cannot count how many months it took after the approval of the budget to have a good system in place for the production and distribution of coupons, the purchase of fertilizer and to transport it to all corners of Malawi.
Its sad that some people cannot appreciate the fact that fertilizer is not manufactured in Malawi, let alone we do not have our own ports for easy transportation. Here are people who cannot think of the logistics associated with this exercise and the costs. The ministry of agriculture managed it, problems or no problems, fertilizer saw its way to almost all parts of Malawi. And honestly we call for the resignation of the minister?
The argument that the ministry of agriculture is one of the most involving ministries and that it is difficult for the president to head it does not hold water. We have had a situation where the late Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda held this ministry up until the time that he was very old but it was a success. It is also not true that it requires moving around frequently for the success of this ministry.
Government, on behalf of the nation employs people whom we call civil servants and they are expected to work on behalf of the president, the government and the entire nation to deliver as is required. In short, government, through the ministry of agriculture, just as is the case with all other ministries, has its ears, eyes, nose and hands on the ground throughout the country. It is therefore unfair to put blame on the minister on activities that could or are supposed to be carried out by the people employed to do that.
The ministry of agriculture is well structured. It has Dr Mutharika as the minister and Bitony Kunsaira as deputy. It has eight agriculture development divisions (ADDs) across the three regions of the country and it employs young and educated men and women responsible for field activities. It is therefore ridiculous to expect the whole minister frequently visiting all the ADDs as is suggested by some opposition leaders and our self-styled analysts. Any minister, not because he or she is the president, cannot be on the run from one office to another because the minister mostly deals with issues of policy.
In all fairness, the problem here could not necessarily be on the administration by the minister but the little support that government got from the opposition ion parliament. Our opposition worked tirelessly, with little success to see the agriculture sector fail.
It was the same ministry that managed to construct silos in Mangochi, which we are told are full with the staple food. Was it not the same ministry that facilitated better prices for tobacco growers at the auction floors? How about the improved market prices for cotton? I think we need to give credit where it is due.
Just a month ago, for the first time in the history of Malawi, we have seen one of the most influential, respected and national newspaper in the United States – the New York Times writing very positively about the achievement of Malawi on food security. The paper commended Malawi’s ministry of agriculture for its sound policies that have led to Malawi having enough food. I wonder which policies such an advanced country saw in our ministry that cannot be seen by a fellow Malawian. Maybe we talk of envy as our main problem.
It could make some sense if our analysts maybe said that some people employed to manage different arms of the ministry, who, just as is the case with any manager were supposed to technically and professionally know how to handle situations as they come, are not doing a good job. In case we have managers that are just sitting phwiii, we need not blame the minister lest he proposes the firing of the front line staff.
How I wish the said politicians and analysts called for the resignation of the national football coach! Definitely they could have had better reasons.
It is high time Malawians woke up and started being patriotic to their nation. In case there is any problem that affected the subsidy programme, why not take it as our problem and we play a role in sorting it than being faultfinders. Let us ask ourselves what role we have played to assist in the fair distribution of coupons and how many of the poor households that have we assisted in cash or kind to enable them buy the fertilizer?
It is very unfortunate that our political analysts are only bent to look at the negative side of issues without complementing the positives. Why should it take the New York Times in the US to note the successes of Malawi on food security when our learned analysts cannot see? Do they deserve being called analysts?
In summary, it is coming out very clearly that calls for the resignation of Dr Bingu wa Mutharika as minister of agriculture are only out of malice and lack of appreciation. None among the so-called analysts have come out with a possible name of a candidate they think would do better than Dr Mutharika. But this could be one of the fruits of democracy and freedom of expression. Democracy in Malawi is indeed taking shape.
All in all, Dr Mutharika has performed. He needs not step down, as there is no reason.
By Hastings Maloya
Democracy in Malawi is steadily coming of age as is manifested by the freedoms that include the freedom to speak ones mind without reprisals. Gone are the days when young democrats were almost rulers as they could create an environment of intimidation and torture. Yes Malawians were not able to speak their minds lest one was asking for a rain of blows in case what you said was not in line with the thinking of the ruling clique.
Today people of different political thoughts and beliefs are able to sit together, enjoy, laugh and agree to disagree on various matters. People are free to be quote in the media regardless of the issue they would like to bring forth. Things do change over time indeed.
This freedom of expression is very good though to a certain degree it leads us to say things thus irrelevant to our society and negative to the development of our country.
This brings me to the subject of debate today. Some politicians and analysts say President Bingu wa Mutharika needs to step down or resign as minister of agriculture because according to their thinking, Dr Mutharika has failed to run the ministry. They single out the main reason for the ‘failure’ as being busy with the office of head of state.
The said politicians and analysts say the fertilizer subsidy programme has not gone well. In case that is true, instead of coming out with possible reasons that may have led to the problem, they only suggest the removal of Dr Mutharika as minister responsible. Seems they could have expected the minister to be at every fertilizer selling point in Malawi or he was supposed to be seen distributing coupons himself to qualify as performing his duties.
I find this very unfortunate and unhelpful.
These opposition politicians let alone the analysts, to me seem to be attention seekers, just excited to have their names and pictures seen in newspapers or their voices heard on radios. They are not for national building. They were around when parliament took ages to approve the budget for this financial year. They know it took several months of discussing the budget, indications of it being refused and all the drama that was associated with it. So here are our commentators who cannot count how many months it took after the approval of the budget to have a good system in place for the production and distribution of coupons, the purchase of fertilizer and to transport it to all corners of Malawi.
Its sad that some people cannot appreciate the fact that fertilizer is not manufactured in Malawi, let alone we do not have our own ports for easy transportation. Here are people who cannot think of the logistics associated with this exercise and the costs. The ministry of agriculture managed it, problems or no problems, fertilizer saw its way to almost all parts of Malawi. And honestly we call for the resignation of the minister?
The argument that the ministry of agriculture is one of the most involving ministries and that it is difficult for the president to head it does not hold water. We have had a situation where the late Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda held this ministry up until the time that he was very old but it was a success. It is also not true that it requires moving around frequently for the success of this ministry.
Government, on behalf of the nation employs people whom we call civil servants and they are expected to work on behalf of the president, the government and the entire nation to deliver as is required. In short, government, through the ministry of agriculture, just as is the case with all other ministries, has its ears, eyes, nose and hands on the ground throughout the country. It is therefore unfair to put blame on the minister on activities that could or are supposed to be carried out by the people employed to do that.
The ministry of agriculture is well structured. It has Dr Mutharika as the minister and Bitony Kunsaira as deputy. It has eight agriculture development divisions (ADDs) across the three regions of the country and it employs young and educated men and women responsible for field activities. It is therefore ridiculous to expect the whole minister frequently visiting all the ADDs as is suggested by some opposition leaders and our self-styled analysts. Any minister, not because he or she is the president, cannot be on the run from one office to another because the minister mostly deals with issues of policy.
In all fairness, the problem here could not necessarily be on the administration by the minister but the little support that government got from the opposition ion parliament. Our opposition worked tirelessly, with little success to see the agriculture sector fail.
It was the same ministry that managed to construct silos in Mangochi, which we are told are full with the staple food. Was it not the same ministry that facilitated better prices for tobacco growers at the auction floors? How about the improved market prices for cotton? I think we need to give credit where it is due.
Just a month ago, for the first time in the history of Malawi, we have seen one of the most influential, respected and national newspaper in the United States – the New York Times writing very positively about the achievement of Malawi on food security. The paper commended Malawi’s ministry of agriculture for its sound policies that have led to Malawi having enough food. I wonder which policies such an advanced country saw in our ministry that cannot be seen by a fellow Malawian. Maybe we talk of envy as our main problem.
It could make some sense if our analysts maybe said that some people employed to manage different arms of the ministry, who, just as is the case with any manager were supposed to technically and professionally know how to handle situations as they come, are not doing a good job. In case we have managers that are just sitting phwiii, we need not blame the minister lest he proposes the firing of the front line staff.
How I wish the said politicians and analysts called for the resignation of the national football coach! Definitely they could have had better reasons.
It is high time Malawians woke up and started being patriotic to their nation. In case there is any problem that affected the subsidy programme, why not take it as our problem and we play a role in sorting it than being faultfinders. Let us ask ourselves what role we have played to assist in the fair distribution of coupons and how many of the poor households that have we assisted in cash or kind to enable them buy the fertilizer?
It is very unfortunate that our political analysts are only bent to look at the negative side of issues without complementing the positives. Why should it take the New York Times in the US to note the successes of Malawi on food security when our learned analysts cannot see? Do they deserve being called analysts?
In summary, it is coming out very clearly that calls for the resignation of Dr Bingu wa Mutharika as minister of agriculture are only out of malice and lack of appreciation. None among the so-called analysts have come out with a possible name of a candidate they think would do better than Dr Mutharika. But this could be one of the fruits of democracy and freedom of expression. Democracy in Malawi is indeed taking shape.
All in all, Dr Mutharika has performed. He needs not step down, as there is no reason.
Misa delegates into Malawi’s oldest forest reserve
Misa delegates into Malawi’s oldest forest reserve
by Hastings Maloya
They arrived from all member countries of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA). Malawians, as usual, showed their warmth in welcoming and making the visitors feel at home. Sunbird Mount Soche hotel was not a disappointment. For the first time Malawi hosted the regional indaba for scribes and after three days of serious deliberations, an out-of-hotel tour was necessary. The perfect and able conference organising team planned a visit to Mount Mulanje, Malawi’s island in the sky.
Those that had visited different mountains in their home countries thought they had seen the best. As such they might have not been very excited with the programme that indicated a tour to Mulanje Mountain. But when a briefing was made prior to the tour, only doubting delegates could have wanted to prove a point. Can Malawi indeed have such a wonderful resource? A surprise was in the wait!
The tour started soon after lunch. Had it been that the sites were boring, it could have been a perfect recipe for a slumber. But who could close one’s eyes past the Chipembere Highway with exchange of jokes from different countries? There we were, outside Limbe into the Thyolo road, past Bvumbwe and Thunga ~ yes the beauty of the tea fields kept the delegates silent for a while.
“Mr. Driver, please stop, I want to have a feel in my hands of a tea leaf! Oh! this is wonderful,” cried a South African before the plea was chorused by all while those with cameras were doing the actual jobs that the gadgets were made for. A slight wait took the delegates to the historical Mwala wa Nthunzi in Thyolo – a stone on the roadside. The history and stories associated with this stone were not only amazing but lured the visitors to make a special trip to Malawi. However, they were yet to see other things.
The journey had to go on. Past the Thyolo highlands the sight of Mount Mulanje was noted. Those that thought that they had visited mountains before realised that they have only been to hills. Yes the situate of the attractive Mount Mulanje took the delegates all the way past Chitakale trading centre into the Likhubula Valley past the Mulanje District Forest office to the Likhubula CCAP.
Every member wished this trip started in the morning. They wished they could have climbed up Chambe plateau, or at least a visit to the historical Dziwe la Nkhalamba, but time was not available.
Patricia Kawawa of the Likhubula CCAP House was an excellent guide around the place and to the Likhubula pools. She led the delegates into the Likhubula river, where a feel of the fresh waters was a toast of the day for the delegates, with everyone wishing to take a bath – yes if the costumes were available swimming tactics could have been experienced.
“This is just little about Mount Mulanje, there is more inside,” says Patricia to the pain of her visitors as now wished the time of their stay in Malawi was extended.
Time was spent in playing in the cold waters of Likhubula. How about exciting picnic pictures on the rocks of the rivers? Notebooks were looked for, pens in the hand and notes taken… yes the trademark of scribes – out to tell stories. To most of them this was a day they will live to remember.
But all good things have to come to an end. Time to get back to the hotel, but we need a drink…don’t we? Kara O’Mula, one most lovely lodge on the other side of the mountain was host for a mean cocktail. Just crowned up the already lovely day! With all the fascinating sceneries, the mountain left a mark in the minds of many.
Situated about 80 km from the commercial city of Blantyre, the attractive Mulanje with its Sapitwa Peak, standing over 3000m above sea level, is not only the highest mountain but also the most impressive and unique massif in the southern and central African region. It is is much more than a barren rock with its forest reserve thus made up of a range of ecological habitats from rain forest to alpine, woodland to grassland. There is a great diversity of plant and animal life and many of species are endemic. The most famous endemic is the magnificent and endangered Mulanje cedar, Malawi’s National Tree, which dominates the high altitude forests. With its evergreen forests, woodlands and montane grasslands, the mountain has attracted increasing attention to many tourists.
The journalists attested to it. And more to it, back to the hotel, Honourable Aleke Kadonaphani Banda had something in store for them
………ends
On Broadcasting in Malawi
this article appeared in the Sunday Times of 2 September 2007
MBC does not deserve any money from government
by Hastings Maloya
Former President Dr. Bakili Muluzi never stops to amaze me. In most cases, his political statements, leaves a lot to be desired. Especially when he instructs his members of parliament as if they were kindergarten children. But maybe thus how politics is supposed to be. The whole team of parliamentarians, who are supposed to be representatives of the people, being told what to do by their leader and they choose to listen without asking questions.
Dr. Muluzi might have advised his MPs on different issues but his recent public advice that the legislators should vote against financial allocation to the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) and Television Malawi, was the worst ever to come from the former leader.
It was disappointing because the legislators are asked to deny MBC and TVM their allocation, not for the benefit of the people of Malawi but for his political will. This is regardless of legislation guiding the operations of the two media houses in Malawi.
Much as I hated Muluzi’s assertion, I believe it is high time Malawians pondered and debated on whether MBC and TVM should continue receiving government funding. This question, whatever the case should not be answered by politicians but by Malawians themselves. Malawians, regardless of their political affiliations must say, after all its their money at play here.
Certainly different thoughts and ideas would come in as to whether these two national broadcasters deserve public funding. I would like to say that MBC, maybe just like TVM, do not deserve any funding from government but this should not be said with any political connotations.
From time in memorial Malawi has had only one radio and it has been the only source of electronic information. It was not debatable in such a situation as to whether the government needed to fund it or not. It was obvious that the nation, needed to be communicated to through such a media. Its moto, therefore made a lot of sense, as informing, educating and entertaining. Malawians have gone through a period where radio was the only source of reliable information and most campaign were best delivered through the radio.
But it is said that things do change over time. True to it, things are changing and now Malawi has over eighteen radio stations broadcasting through out the country. Malawi has a television station, she has mobile telephones, has internet, and Malawi now has a regulatory body called the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA). Yes twelve years ago, this was not the case. Indeed things do change over time.
Now the people of Malawi are free to chose which radio station to tune to. Malawians can make a judgement as to which radio station breaks the news and which one has most entertaining and quality programming. We are free to listen to what we like and switch off what makes no sense. Even advertisers have the freedom to fly their adverts on radios of their choice depending on what audience they are interested in.
But why should things remain the same in as far as funding is concerned for MBC? Have we made an assessment that MBC remains the best source of public information in Malawi? Why should it be favoured?
In leveling the playing field, if the government has financial resources thus meant to promote broadcasting media in Malawi, then it needs to fund each radio station – equally and give its people a wider choice of which station to listen to. Funding MBC is tantamount to killing the other radio stations and all of them scramble for the same market in as far as advertising is concerned.
MBC has lost its representation as a national broadcaster if one was to critically go with the type of its programming. Arguably the opposition should be allowed to advance its views, and defend itself against attacks. That is NOT happening now! New programmes that are cropping up at MBC are far from national building and development. The local content that we used to enjoy in the past years is no longer there.
The question still remain, why should Malawians contribute to MBC when the radio is not open to the listeners’ choices. In a free society that we are Malawian citizens should be free today to criticise their government, and offer thoughts. This is not happening on MBC.
Malawi enjoys freedom of expression and opinion, and this can be strengthened by a fairly leveled playing field for radio broadcasting. MBC, as it is now with the changed landscape that we are in, does not deserve any public funding. Let it receive if the laws say so and we should work tirelessly to re-look at those laws and see whether they are making sense for the time that we live in.
MBC has a vibrant business department with quite a lot of resources both technical and human. They are almost everywhere in Malawi with strong transmitters. It’s just a matter of putting in lovely productions and a team of vibrant marketing professionals and do away will all issues of corruption. Surely MBC does not need any funding from anyone. The only funding they may need should come from donor and non-governmental organisations through project proposals.
The private radio broadcasting in Malawi faces a lot of challenges from licensing to taxes and purchase of equipment. Nevertheless, the radios are a great source of information and we have seen them surviving the heat of the day. It is not time they were considered for funding too? Will Malawians cry if that happened?
Our politicians should not be talking noise for personal gains, it would help to go into parliament, look at the legislation, revisit it and alter where necessary, of course with the blessing of all Malawians. This should be done regardless on one’s political affiliations and beliefs.
It is overdue. MBC does not deserve government funding. My proposal is that MBC should receive its allocation for the time being but the legislations should be looked into now. This must stop. Lets not make our public broadcaster lazy. Things have changed, lets accept the change by changing the way we think.
At the end of the day the main beneficiary are the Malawians themselves.
MBC does not deserve any money from government
by Hastings Maloya
Former President Dr. Bakili Muluzi never stops to amaze me. In most cases, his political statements, leaves a lot to be desired. Especially when he instructs his members of parliament as if they were kindergarten children. But maybe thus how politics is supposed to be. The whole team of parliamentarians, who are supposed to be representatives of the people, being told what to do by their leader and they choose to listen without asking questions.
Dr. Muluzi might have advised his MPs on different issues but his recent public advice that the legislators should vote against financial allocation to the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) and Television Malawi, was the worst ever to come from the former leader.
It was disappointing because the legislators are asked to deny MBC and TVM their allocation, not for the benefit of the people of Malawi but for his political will. This is regardless of legislation guiding the operations of the two media houses in Malawi.
Much as I hated Muluzi’s assertion, I believe it is high time Malawians pondered and debated on whether MBC and TVM should continue receiving government funding. This question, whatever the case should not be answered by politicians but by Malawians themselves. Malawians, regardless of their political affiliations must say, after all its their money at play here.
Certainly different thoughts and ideas would come in as to whether these two national broadcasters deserve public funding. I would like to say that MBC, maybe just like TVM, do not deserve any funding from government but this should not be said with any political connotations.
From time in memorial Malawi has had only one radio and it has been the only source of electronic information. It was not debatable in such a situation as to whether the government needed to fund it or not. It was obvious that the nation, needed to be communicated to through such a media. Its moto, therefore made a lot of sense, as informing, educating and entertaining. Malawians have gone through a period where radio was the only source of reliable information and most campaign were best delivered through the radio.
But it is said that things do change over time. True to it, things are changing and now Malawi has over eighteen radio stations broadcasting through out the country. Malawi has a television station, she has mobile telephones, has internet, and Malawi now has a regulatory body called the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA). Yes twelve years ago, this was not the case. Indeed things do change over time.
Now the people of Malawi are free to chose which radio station to tune to. Malawians can make a judgement as to which radio station breaks the news and which one has most entertaining and quality programming. We are free to listen to what we like and switch off what makes no sense. Even advertisers have the freedom to fly their adverts on radios of their choice depending on what audience they are interested in.
But why should things remain the same in as far as funding is concerned for MBC? Have we made an assessment that MBC remains the best source of public information in Malawi? Why should it be favoured?
In leveling the playing field, if the government has financial resources thus meant to promote broadcasting media in Malawi, then it needs to fund each radio station – equally and give its people a wider choice of which station to listen to. Funding MBC is tantamount to killing the other radio stations and all of them scramble for the same market in as far as advertising is concerned.
MBC has lost its representation as a national broadcaster if one was to critically go with the type of its programming. Arguably the opposition should be allowed to advance its views, and defend itself against attacks. That is NOT happening now! New programmes that are cropping up at MBC are far from national building and development. The local content that we used to enjoy in the past years is no longer there.
The question still remain, why should Malawians contribute to MBC when the radio is not open to the listeners’ choices. In a free society that we are Malawian citizens should be free today to criticise their government, and offer thoughts. This is not happening on MBC.
Malawi enjoys freedom of expression and opinion, and this can be strengthened by a fairly leveled playing field for radio broadcasting. MBC, as it is now with the changed landscape that we are in, does not deserve any public funding. Let it receive if the laws say so and we should work tirelessly to re-look at those laws and see whether they are making sense for the time that we live in.
MBC has a vibrant business department with quite a lot of resources both technical and human. They are almost everywhere in Malawi with strong transmitters. It’s just a matter of putting in lovely productions and a team of vibrant marketing professionals and do away will all issues of corruption. Surely MBC does not need any funding from anyone. The only funding they may need should come from donor and non-governmental organisations through project proposals.
The private radio broadcasting in Malawi faces a lot of challenges from licensing to taxes and purchase of equipment. Nevertheless, the radios are a great source of information and we have seen them surviving the heat of the day. It is not time they were considered for funding too? Will Malawians cry if that happened?
Our politicians should not be talking noise for personal gains, it would help to go into parliament, look at the legislation, revisit it and alter where necessary, of course with the blessing of all Malawians. This should be done regardless on one’s political affiliations and beliefs.
It is overdue. MBC does not deserve government funding. My proposal is that MBC should receive its allocation for the time being but the legislations should be looked into now. This must stop. Lets not make our public broadcaster lazy. Things have changed, lets accept the change by changing the way we think.
At the end of the day the main beneficiary are the Malawians themselves.
Unveiling the Beauty - Mt Mulanje
this article appeared in the Nation Newspeper on Thursday 16th August, 2007
MOUNT MULANJE
By Hastings Maloya
Historically it is recorded that Mulanje Mountain and its forest reserve was once home to the first Malawian settlers. Recorded history indicates that the inhabitants in the mountains were dwarf people locally known as Amwandionerapati or Abathwa. It is said that they were a people with diminutive height who lived on hunting. The name Abathwa purely meant short people. However, it is said that the said people never liked being called or referred to as being short.
Fifty-eight year old Sankhulani Musopa who lives close to the mountain says there had been people that had an opportunity to see the early settlers in the reserve. He says each time one met them, they would, in quite a war-like manner, ask; “from where did you see us?” To that question, they expected the respondent to say that he/she had seem them from very far. They could then feel very proud. They were not too short to be noticed from far, anyway! They were speaking chinyanja and their question was coming like “mwandionera pati? Hence they were called Amwandionerapati.
Musopa says there had also been cases that they could provide well-cooked food, fruits and some presents if you were lucky to meet them.
“You could find well prepared food on your way, all you needed to do was eat and make no noise about it,” says Musopa but fails to link the preparation of such food and other stories about spirits in the mountain. Very little is known as to how these early settlers disappeared from the mountain’s forest reserve. Or are they still there?
Ever since the stories of the early settlers lessened, Mulanje Mountain has, over the years, mostly and moderately just known as the largest mountain in Central Africa. Of course its beauty has been written in different periodicals and recorded in different media. And tourists from all over the world have been to Mulanje Mountain. But until September 2003, it was known otherwise, it became a mountain in which people can go missing and never be found.
Yes the story of Linda Pronk was a turn of stories associated with Mulanje Mountain. Linda, a 22-year-old Dutch citizen, who one fateful Saturday in 2003, tried to set off, alone, to climb Sapitwa peak, and she has not been seen since. Sophisticated search methods were applied, traditional healers and medicine people came with different skills and approaches, preachers and leaders of different religions and beliefs also participated in the search. All efforts were done to search for Linda, hopes were raised but still it is four years now and no success registered.
As for the local people living around the mountain, ancestral spirits played a role in the missing of Linda. They say there are spirits in the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve and can react in case they are not happy with a particular situation. One does not need to be forced to believe that neither is one expected to dispute such beliefs.
“My advice is that we should visit the mountain with respect. This is a treasurer for the people of Mulanje and Phalombe. It must be respected,” says a chief from Phalombe without elaborating. To date, there is nothing conclusive as to what exactly happened. Someone is yet to come up with a possible assumption.
Musopa says, “Sometimes you can not tell about this mountain. Some things that happen here, you just can not understand them, maybe thus what makes this mountain important and unique.”
All in all, this tragic incident on the mountain should serve to remind us all to strongly adhere to the well-established safety principles that guide mountain climbing. No-one can really tell what exactly happened to Linda. However, notwithstanding this unfortunate event, Mount Mulanje remains one unique resource for Malawi as it continues to attract tourists from all over the world.
Situated about 80 km from the commercial city Blantyre, past the green beautiful tea field of the Thyolo Highlands, the attractive Mulanje with its Sapitwa Peak, standing over 3000m above sea level, is not only the highest mountain but also the most impressive and unique massif in the southern and central African region. With its evergreen forests, woodlands and montane grasslands, the mountain has attracted increasing attention to many tourists.
And now with the newly christened Robert Mugabe Highway, the distance between Blantyre and Mulanje has been reduced by thirty kilometers which makes it easier for a day visit and fun for rock climbers.
Mulanje Mountain is much more than a barren rock. Covering an area of 640,000 hectares within Mulanje and Phalombe districts, the mountain has a Forest Reserve thus made up of a range of ecological habitats from rain forest to alpine, woodland to grassland. There is a great diversity of plant and animal life and many of species are endemic. The most famous endemic is the magnificent and endangered Mulanje cedar, Malawi’s National Tree, which dominates the high altitude forests.
Apart from the famous Sapitwa Peak, there are a lot of striking sites on this massif that has a grouping of lovely hills. Some appealing sites on top of the mountains include the splendid Chambe basin and the superlative Lichenya and wonderful Sombani Plateau. How about the outstanding Ruo Gorge and exquisite water falls? The weather on the top, with the breeze from the natural woodlands, makes the mountain an alternative place worth spending time at.
Up the Likhubula river, is the historical and wonderful Dziwe la Nkhalamba falls with extremely cold waters and a lovely place for picnics. It has one of the breathtaking waterfalls that would entice you to spend a day watching it. How about enjoying a swim! A walk into the mountain and its reserve, makes one appreciate the wonders of nature.
A group of students from England that visited the mountain recently saw the need to leave a comment about the mountain. After what they called 'a three hour task of climbing the hills up to Chambe peak,' the students wrote in a visitor's book: "What seemed to be a never ending uphill trudge soon led us over the hill to our first view of the beautiful Chambe peak." Three days of their stay in a suitable mountain hut was too little for what they were to see on the mountain. They left with emotive words describing what they saw; "Absolutely gorgeous place that will be described to all of England when we get home. Loved it!"
Mulanje Mountain and its forest reserve was gazzeted as a protected area by the then Nyasaland government in 1927 and to date it is Malawi’s oldest forest reserve.
MOUNT MULANJE
By Hastings Maloya
Historically it is recorded that Mulanje Mountain and its forest reserve was once home to the first Malawian settlers. Recorded history indicates that the inhabitants in the mountains were dwarf people locally known as Amwandionerapati or Abathwa. It is said that they were a people with diminutive height who lived on hunting. The name Abathwa purely meant short people. However, it is said that the said people never liked being called or referred to as being short.
Fifty-eight year old Sankhulani Musopa who lives close to the mountain says there had been people that had an opportunity to see the early settlers in the reserve. He says each time one met them, they would, in quite a war-like manner, ask; “from where did you see us?” To that question, they expected the respondent to say that he/she had seem them from very far. They could then feel very proud. They were not too short to be noticed from far, anyway! They were speaking chinyanja and their question was coming like “mwandionera pati? Hence they were called Amwandionerapati.
Musopa says there had also been cases that they could provide well-cooked food, fruits and some presents if you were lucky to meet them.
“You could find well prepared food on your way, all you needed to do was eat and make no noise about it,” says Musopa but fails to link the preparation of such food and other stories about spirits in the mountain. Very little is known as to how these early settlers disappeared from the mountain’s forest reserve. Or are they still there?
Ever since the stories of the early settlers lessened, Mulanje Mountain has, over the years, mostly and moderately just known as the largest mountain in Central Africa. Of course its beauty has been written in different periodicals and recorded in different media. And tourists from all over the world have been to Mulanje Mountain. But until September 2003, it was known otherwise, it became a mountain in which people can go missing and never be found.
Yes the story of Linda Pronk was a turn of stories associated with Mulanje Mountain. Linda, a 22-year-old Dutch citizen, who one fateful Saturday in 2003, tried to set off, alone, to climb Sapitwa peak, and she has not been seen since. Sophisticated search methods were applied, traditional healers and medicine people came with different skills and approaches, preachers and leaders of different religions and beliefs also participated in the search. All efforts were done to search for Linda, hopes were raised but still it is four years now and no success registered.
As for the local people living around the mountain, ancestral spirits played a role in the missing of Linda. They say there are spirits in the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve and can react in case they are not happy with a particular situation. One does not need to be forced to believe that neither is one expected to dispute such beliefs.
“My advice is that we should visit the mountain with respect. This is a treasurer for the people of Mulanje and Phalombe. It must be respected,” says a chief from Phalombe without elaborating. To date, there is nothing conclusive as to what exactly happened. Someone is yet to come up with a possible assumption.
Musopa says, “Sometimes you can not tell about this mountain. Some things that happen here, you just can not understand them, maybe thus what makes this mountain important and unique.”
All in all, this tragic incident on the mountain should serve to remind us all to strongly adhere to the well-established safety principles that guide mountain climbing. No-one can really tell what exactly happened to Linda. However, notwithstanding this unfortunate event, Mount Mulanje remains one unique resource for Malawi as it continues to attract tourists from all over the world.
Situated about 80 km from the commercial city Blantyre, past the green beautiful tea field of the Thyolo Highlands, the attractive Mulanje with its Sapitwa Peak, standing over 3000m above sea level, is not only the highest mountain but also the most impressive and unique massif in the southern and central African region. With its evergreen forests, woodlands and montane grasslands, the mountain has attracted increasing attention to many tourists.
And now with the newly christened Robert Mugabe Highway, the distance between Blantyre and Mulanje has been reduced by thirty kilometers which makes it easier for a day visit and fun for rock climbers.
Mulanje Mountain is much more than a barren rock. Covering an area of 640,000 hectares within Mulanje and Phalombe districts, the mountain has a Forest Reserve thus made up of a range of ecological habitats from rain forest to alpine, woodland to grassland. There is a great diversity of plant and animal life and many of species are endemic. The most famous endemic is the magnificent and endangered Mulanje cedar, Malawi’s National Tree, which dominates the high altitude forests.
Apart from the famous Sapitwa Peak, there are a lot of striking sites on this massif that has a grouping of lovely hills. Some appealing sites on top of the mountains include the splendid Chambe basin and the superlative Lichenya and wonderful Sombani Plateau. How about the outstanding Ruo Gorge and exquisite water falls? The weather on the top, with the breeze from the natural woodlands, makes the mountain an alternative place worth spending time at.
Up the Likhubula river, is the historical and wonderful Dziwe la Nkhalamba falls with extremely cold waters and a lovely place for picnics. It has one of the breathtaking waterfalls that would entice you to spend a day watching it. How about enjoying a swim! A walk into the mountain and its reserve, makes one appreciate the wonders of nature.
A group of students from England that visited the mountain recently saw the need to leave a comment about the mountain. After what they called 'a three hour task of climbing the hills up to Chambe peak,' the students wrote in a visitor's book: "What seemed to be a never ending uphill trudge soon led us over the hill to our first view of the beautiful Chambe peak." Three days of their stay in a suitable mountain hut was too little for what they were to see on the mountain. They left with emotive words describing what they saw; "Absolutely gorgeous place that will be described to all of England when we get home. Loved it!"
Mulanje Mountain and its forest reserve was gazzeted as a protected area by the then Nyasaland government in 1927 and to date it is Malawi’s oldest forest reserve.
On the 2007 Mt Mulanje Porters Race
Master retains Mt Mulanje porters title
By Hastings Maloya
Point proven, she is a genius. She did not only defend her championship but also beat her own record of last year. Tereza Master has, for a second year running won the Mount Mulanje Porters Race after doing the trek in 2 hours 42 minutes seven minutes less of her 2006 record of 2 hours 49 minutes. She walked home K20, 000 richer and a trophy from NBS Bank. Her long time friend Nancy Matanda, current national marathon champion, came second after doing the distance in 2 hours 48 minutes, followed by Doris Fisha on the third position.
“This is a consolation as I was supposed to be at the All Africa Games in Algeria had everything gone as planned, but anyway I am very happy to have defended my title.” said the excited Master. She said the race helps her keep her fitness.
In the men’s category, a new name in the athletic circles, Charles Musowa, who has been on second position for the past two consecutive years, breathed fire and claimed the championship of Malawi’s only extreme sport. He also K20, 000 bank voucher to open an account with NBS Bank thanks to NBS Bank, the proud sponsors of the 2007 Mount Mulanje Porters Race.
Musowa, one of the porters from Likhubula zone, did the 25km mountain trek in 2 hours 9 minutes beating last years record of Francis Khanje at 2 hours 17 minutes. Mike Tebulo from Zomba came second while Khanje came third and received K15, 000 and K10, 000 respectively from NBS Bank.
“I have finally done it,” said the excited Musowa adding: “its time now Malawi knew that from Mulanje now comes another name in athletics.” He said his wish now is to claim championship at the national marathon.
Khanje accepted defeat and praised his colleague. “It is painful to see your championship taken away but I congratulate Charles. I really wanted to defend my title but my preparations were not very good,” he said while shaking hands with the new champion adding that this encourages him to do better but also shows that there is still hidden talent in Mulanje that needs to be explored.
Both winners were offered a one night full board accommodation courtesy of Kara O’ Mula Country Lodge in Mulanje.
The race this year, which attracted 304 participants was fully sponsored by NBS Bank to a tune of K1.3 million that included prizes and all administrative costs. The chief executive of the Bank, Mr. John Biziwick said his Bank is excited to be associated with the mountain race and also proud that it is playing a role in bringing out the unnoticed talent in athletics.
“As a caring Bank, we feel honoured to be associated with events like these. Let me assure you all that we are willing to sponsor the race again next year,” said Biziwick amid ululations and handclapping from the over five-thousand crowd that braved the chilly weather to witness the event.
Biziwick said apart from the lovely sport, his Bank is willing to support small scale projects that are aimed and natural resource and environmental management.
“This is your Bank and your Bank needs to be closer to you. While I congratulate the winners today, I would like to call upon everybody here to be associated with NBS Bank in one way or another” said Biziwick adding that plans are underway to open a branch at Likhubula which is a tourist spot.
And the district commissioner for Mulanje Moses Chimphepo thanked NBS Bank for the support and for making the Porters race such a beautiful event. He said the Mulanje District Assembly is always excited that the district is leading in as far as athletics is concerned.
The 304 runners, 112 of whom were women, trekked in a rocky and hazardous route with small paths from Likhubula to Chambe Plateau then along the plateau to Lichenya and descend back from the starting point. In total it requires a total of 11 hours for a good mountain climber to cover such a trek of about 25 kilometres.
The annual Mount Mulanje Porters Race which was in the eleventh anniversary this year has attracted the attention of runners both male and female from all over the world that athletically compete up and across the lovely plateaus of Mount Mulanje. This year it attracted 58 international runners.
By Hastings Maloya
Point proven, she is a genius. She did not only defend her championship but also beat her own record of last year. Tereza Master has, for a second year running won the Mount Mulanje Porters Race after doing the trek in 2 hours 42 minutes seven minutes less of her 2006 record of 2 hours 49 minutes. She walked home K20, 000 richer and a trophy from NBS Bank. Her long time friend Nancy Matanda, current national marathon champion, came second after doing the distance in 2 hours 48 minutes, followed by Doris Fisha on the third position.
“This is a consolation as I was supposed to be at the All Africa Games in Algeria had everything gone as planned, but anyway I am very happy to have defended my title.” said the excited Master. She said the race helps her keep her fitness.
In the men’s category, a new name in the athletic circles, Charles Musowa, who has been on second position for the past two consecutive years, breathed fire and claimed the championship of Malawi’s only extreme sport. He also K20, 000 bank voucher to open an account with NBS Bank thanks to NBS Bank, the proud sponsors of the 2007 Mount Mulanje Porters Race.
Musowa, one of the porters from Likhubula zone, did the 25km mountain trek in 2 hours 9 minutes beating last years record of Francis Khanje at 2 hours 17 minutes. Mike Tebulo from Zomba came second while Khanje came third and received K15, 000 and K10, 000 respectively from NBS Bank.
“I have finally done it,” said the excited Musowa adding: “its time now Malawi knew that from Mulanje now comes another name in athletics.” He said his wish now is to claim championship at the national marathon.
Khanje accepted defeat and praised his colleague. “It is painful to see your championship taken away but I congratulate Charles. I really wanted to defend my title but my preparations were not very good,” he said while shaking hands with the new champion adding that this encourages him to do better but also shows that there is still hidden talent in Mulanje that needs to be explored.
Both winners were offered a one night full board accommodation courtesy of Kara O’ Mula Country Lodge in Mulanje.
The race this year, which attracted 304 participants was fully sponsored by NBS Bank to a tune of K1.3 million that included prizes and all administrative costs. The chief executive of the Bank, Mr. John Biziwick said his Bank is excited to be associated with the mountain race and also proud that it is playing a role in bringing out the unnoticed talent in athletics.
“As a caring Bank, we feel honoured to be associated with events like these. Let me assure you all that we are willing to sponsor the race again next year,” said Biziwick amid ululations and handclapping from the over five-thousand crowd that braved the chilly weather to witness the event.
Biziwick said apart from the lovely sport, his Bank is willing to support small scale projects that are aimed and natural resource and environmental management.
“This is your Bank and your Bank needs to be closer to you. While I congratulate the winners today, I would like to call upon everybody here to be associated with NBS Bank in one way or another” said Biziwick adding that plans are underway to open a branch at Likhubula which is a tourist spot.
And the district commissioner for Mulanje Moses Chimphepo thanked NBS Bank for the support and for making the Porters race such a beautiful event. He said the Mulanje District Assembly is always excited that the district is leading in as far as athletics is concerned.
The 304 runners, 112 of whom were women, trekked in a rocky and hazardous route with small paths from Likhubula to Chambe Plateau then along the plateau to Lichenya and descend back from the starting point. In total it requires a total of 11 hours for a good mountain climber to cover such a trek of about 25 kilometres.
The annual Mount Mulanje Porters Race which was in the eleventh anniversary this year has attracted the attention of runners both male and female from all over the world that athletically compete up and across the lovely plateaus of Mount Mulanje. This year it attracted 58 international runners.
On Political Defections - Dausi
,.....Its a political miscalculation
By Hastings Maloya
Politics, politics politics.
It is not amusing to comment on political issues especially when you are not a politician. It is therefore quite tricky to comment on the subject under debate today but living in a country thus governed by politics leaves all of us with no choice but to comment on political matters. After all, the fact that we all get involved in the process of choosing governments, makes all of us become politicians.
As an aspiring candidate for a parliamentary seat, it is purely a challenge to comment of political matters as readers, especially those that call shots in political parties may chose to read with different minds all together and make wild conclusions far from what is on the table. But all the same an opinion remains thus and certainly you will agree with my points of view. Please read on.
Recent political happenings in Malawi have to a greater degree made us all fail to concentrate on issues to do with development and have only turned us into serious politicians. What with the unfortunate debates in parliament and its subsequent suspension, the independence celebrations that saw a section of Malawians absconding and of course political statements from different commentators in all angles.
Any recent political development has in its own received different opinions from different people and different groups of people depending on which side one has tilted oneself to. Very unfortunate, but as said above we are in a situation that gives us limited choice and to comment soberly without taking sides is becoming a far-fetched trial.
But the biggest political news of recent times came on Sunday July 8 with the defection of one Mr. Nicholas Dausi from the ‘mighty’ Malawi Congress Party (MCP) to the ‘ruling’ Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Mr. Dausi was not just a mare member of the MCP. Worse still not only its spokesperson but the vice president, yes, second in command. Defection of a person holding such a portfolio is not only surprising but also put the party in a very awkward situation both within and outside it.
I believe Mr. Dausi’s decision to leave MCP is not only miscalculated but also wrongly timed. The reasons given are also far from convincing let alone slightly vague and unpalatable. Without mincing words, Mr. Dausi has made a wrong political decision or a good one but with wrong reasons and at a wrong time. Yes, with the current political tension, the move by Mr. Dausi is more or less adding sand on an already bruised eye.
Least I say, Mr. Nicholas Dausi happens to be a very good friend of mine and I have followed his political life with keen interest. Very understanding and helpful that man is. His most outstanding character being his ability to easily mix with people of all ages and races – very rare among politicians! Nevertheless, his recent political turn is today subject for debate.
Mr. Dausi is not knew on the political scene. He made the MCP tick in the southern region despite having not a single member of parliament. He has always been composed, a friend of the media and his political comments have always been intelligent. It is completely out of context to say the departure of Dausi from MCP is a good riddance – whoever said those words must be ashamed, but hear this…..
On June 15, Mr. Dausi was among hundreds of opposition leaders that celebrated the supreme court’s landmark judgement on section 65. He was quote in the media hailing the judgement and said it was now up to the speaker of the national assembly to do justice to members of parliament that obviously had crossed the floor. Mr. Dausi’s expectation, just as is the case with all opposition leaders, was that as soon as parliament meets, heads will roll and that would mark the exit of DPP as a ruling party.
Is it not interesting therefore, that three weeks later the same person will come round and tell the nation that he hates his former party because it is excited with the section 65 ruling?
How about the love for Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda?
Mr. Dausi tells us that he is impressed with the DPP and its leadership because it respects the former leader and founder of the Malawi nation. Again the interesting pustule will be the fact that ever since the death of Dr. Banda, MCP has maintained his face not only on its cloth but also on badges. Very ironic indeed for Mr. Dausi to see the love of Kamuzu in a different party thus away from his own. Interesting.
This former vice president also indicates that he was not respected or honoured in the party and was frustrated. Smells something. One can not be too sure what type of respect thus being described here and whether the leadership of MCP to which he was second in command was not following its own rules and regulations. Or there is nothing of that sort in MCP. No governing principles? And the Vice President could not work on some?
In different interviews with different media houses including the national broadcaster – the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Mr. Dausi had described DPP as a group of frustrated politicians and surely the least thing we were supposed to hear is someone joining a group of frustrated individuals.
Many a people would definitely be surprised why Mr. Dausi remained in MCP all these years. It still remains guess work as to when did he become conscious that MCP does not have the welfare of the people of Malawi at heart. And when did he come to realize that it’s the DPP and its leadership that recognizes and respects Dr Banda? It must have taken him quite sometime to compose the reasons and bring them forth and they are yet to become valid.
Maybe thus what politicians are supposed to do.
Nicholas Dausi is such an eloquent man and surely he has, for a long time, put the government in check. His comments and statements benefited the nation to a certain extent. Now chances are high that in him we will soon get praise-singing if he is not going to be silenced completely. This is a loss.
In summary where are these defections taking us to? Are we building Malawi? MCP just as any other political party in Malawi needs people of Dausi’s caliber.. people with brains that would help check the government is its operations. People that would give provoking thoughts in relation to different situations, for the love of the country. It is yet to be seen if this defection will help Malawi move some steps forward not just politically but in is democratic maturity.
Decisions that are seen to attract individual gains shall never be helpful. It should therefore be our prayer that when Mr. Dausi feels the heat in the new camp, we should not be here again to write about his next defection. And the DPP should not be excited with defections for the sake of it. Of course with Mr. Dausi, it’s quite a good catch.
Nonetheless, Mr. Dausi did a lot of service for Malawi while in opposition. He could have stayed put. We therefore expect a lot from him but not his personal gains.
Hastings Maloya writes in his personal capacity
By Hastings Maloya
Politics, politics politics.
It is not amusing to comment on political issues especially when you are not a politician. It is therefore quite tricky to comment on the subject under debate today but living in a country thus governed by politics leaves all of us with no choice but to comment on political matters. After all, the fact that we all get involved in the process of choosing governments, makes all of us become politicians.
As an aspiring candidate for a parliamentary seat, it is purely a challenge to comment of political matters as readers, especially those that call shots in political parties may chose to read with different minds all together and make wild conclusions far from what is on the table. But all the same an opinion remains thus and certainly you will agree with my points of view. Please read on.
Recent political happenings in Malawi have to a greater degree made us all fail to concentrate on issues to do with development and have only turned us into serious politicians. What with the unfortunate debates in parliament and its subsequent suspension, the independence celebrations that saw a section of Malawians absconding and of course political statements from different commentators in all angles.
Any recent political development has in its own received different opinions from different people and different groups of people depending on which side one has tilted oneself to. Very unfortunate, but as said above we are in a situation that gives us limited choice and to comment soberly without taking sides is becoming a far-fetched trial.
But the biggest political news of recent times came on Sunday July 8 with the defection of one Mr. Nicholas Dausi from the ‘mighty’ Malawi Congress Party (MCP) to the ‘ruling’ Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Mr. Dausi was not just a mare member of the MCP. Worse still not only its spokesperson but the vice president, yes, second in command. Defection of a person holding such a portfolio is not only surprising but also put the party in a very awkward situation both within and outside it.
I believe Mr. Dausi’s decision to leave MCP is not only miscalculated but also wrongly timed. The reasons given are also far from convincing let alone slightly vague and unpalatable. Without mincing words, Mr. Dausi has made a wrong political decision or a good one but with wrong reasons and at a wrong time. Yes, with the current political tension, the move by Mr. Dausi is more or less adding sand on an already bruised eye.
Least I say, Mr. Nicholas Dausi happens to be a very good friend of mine and I have followed his political life with keen interest. Very understanding and helpful that man is. His most outstanding character being his ability to easily mix with people of all ages and races – very rare among politicians! Nevertheless, his recent political turn is today subject for debate.
Mr. Dausi is not knew on the political scene. He made the MCP tick in the southern region despite having not a single member of parliament. He has always been composed, a friend of the media and his political comments have always been intelligent. It is completely out of context to say the departure of Dausi from MCP is a good riddance – whoever said those words must be ashamed, but hear this…..
On June 15, Mr. Dausi was among hundreds of opposition leaders that celebrated the supreme court’s landmark judgement on section 65. He was quote in the media hailing the judgement and said it was now up to the speaker of the national assembly to do justice to members of parliament that obviously had crossed the floor. Mr. Dausi’s expectation, just as is the case with all opposition leaders, was that as soon as parliament meets, heads will roll and that would mark the exit of DPP as a ruling party.
Is it not interesting therefore, that three weeks later the same person will come round and tell the nation that he hates his former party because it is excited with the section 65 ruling?
How about the love for Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda?
Mr. Dausi tells us that he is impressed with the DPP and its leadership because it respects the former leader and founder of the Malawi nation. Again the interesting pustule will be the fact that ever since the death of Dr. Banda, MCP has maintained his face not only on its cloth but also on badges. Very ironic indeed for Mr. Dausi to see the love of Kamuzu in a different party thus away from his own. Interesting.
This former vice president also indicates that he was not respected or honoured in the party and was frustrated. Smells something. One can not be too sure what type of respect thus being described here and whether the leadership of MCP to which he was second in command was not following its own rules and regulations. Or there is nothing of that sort in MCP. No governing principles? And the Vice President could not work on some?
In different interviews with different media houses including the national broadcaster – the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Mr. Dausi had described DPP as a group of frustrated politicians and surely the least thing we were supposed to hear is someone joining a group of frustrated individuals.
Many a people would definitely be surprised why Mr. Dausi remained in MCP all these years. It still remains guess work as to when did he become conscious that MCP does not have the welfare of the people of Malawi at heart. And when did he come to realize that it’s the DPP and its leadership that recognizes and respects Dr Banda? It must have taken him quite sometime to compose the reasons and bring them forth and they are yet to become valid.
Maybe thus what politicians are supposed to do.
Nicholas Dausi is such an eloquent man and surely he has, for a long time, put the government in check. His comments and statements benefited the nation to a certain extent. Now chances are high that in him we will soon get praise-singing if he is not going to be silenced completely. This is a loss.
In summary where are these defections taking us to? Are we building Malawi? MCP just as any other political party in Malawi needs people of Dausi’s caliber.. people with brains that would help check the government is its operations. People that would give provoking thoughts in relation to different situations, for the love of the country. It is yet to be seen if this defection will help Malawi move some steps forward not just politically but in is democratic maturity.
Decisions that are seen to attract individual gains shall never be helpful. It should therefore be our prayer that when Mr. Dausi feels the heat in the new camp, we should not be here again to write about his next defection. And the DPP should not be excited with defections for the sake of it. Of course with Mr. Dausi, it’s quite a good catch.
Nonetheless, Mr. Dausi did a lot of service for Malawi while in opposition. He could have stayed put. We therefore expect a lot from him but not his personal gains.
Hastings Maloya writes in his personal capacity
On Detention Camps
Detention Camps – the only sure way to end violence against women and children
By HASTINGS MALOYA
If it was a prayer, I could have asked all of us to bow our heads; close our eyes and pray. Well, it’s not a prayer, but nevertheless, let us take a bit of our time and silently reflect. Just come to think of it; a 57-year old man defiles a six-month old baby. A seven-year old girl is defiled by her own teacher, let alone a headmaster. And a woman has her arms chopped by her husband or has her private parts disfigured by someone who was supposed to be her lover.
How about issues of well-dressed men caught with private parts in their bags. Talk of news of unknown assailants removing women’s breasts and gouging their eyes. Then there is the-now famous Ndirande vampire who has the audacity of changing locations in Blantyre and targeting innocent women at will. The stories are endless and they do not make good reading. Each passing day we realize that Malawi is not as safe a place to live in as it was supposed to be especially for women and children.
All these sounds and feels easy when they are just in a form of news that we read in the papers, listen on the radio or watch on TV. We can as well get used to them and let them pass.
But why are we silently reflecting today? Well, I want us to try and imagine what our reaction would be if our closest relation was such a victim. We are trying to put ourselves in an imaginary situation where our daughter has been defiled, our sister has had her private parts removed or our only child has been attacked and his eyes removed! Our imaginations go beyond the act, but now the perpetrator has been caught and enough evidence lay bare. Here we are standing in front of the handcuffed culprit.
I know different people will react differently but honestly very few will talk of forgiveness. Individually, one would think of the trauma that might have engulfed the affected community, let alone the future of the victim is he or she is lucky to be alive. One would ask why such a heartless person should be forgiven. Others would even ask the police to release the culprits so that the concerned community can provide the required chastisement that the scoundrels deserve. Unfortunately, the police won’t allow people to take the law in their hands and there is no possibility that these merciless people shall be given the stiffest penalty that would deter others from committing similar crimes.
But then as a nation, do we have in sight any means that we can use to deal away with this situation? Yes. Introduction of detention camps where all proven perpetrators should be thrown and get the heat. They should realize that our society does not need such type of people whose behaviour is more or less that of a beast. Thus the only way we will deal away with the worries that we have today.
This is where His Excellency the President Dr. Bingu wa Mutharika deserves credit for proposing the reintroduction of detention camps for perpetrators of violence against women and children. He needs to be given all the support. We can build a better Malawi.
But; hear this.
At a rally addressed by the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) in Mulanje recently, some political leaders accused the President for having proposed the introduction of detention camps. They called it dictatorship. In other words, they are not supporting stiffer punishments for people who bring calamities and anxiety in our midst. After all they are free to do what they please – this is democracy. Isn’t it?
The president’s proposal for detention camps was not meant for politicians. It was not meant for those opposing to his governing policies. And it was not made at a political rally. It was meant to give peace and harmony to our women and children. How this noble thought was turned to mean politics is yet to be clarified. One wonders whether the opposition politicians just wanted to achieve political mileage by misguiding their followers or indeed they meant what they said. Again it would be very difficult to comprehend whether any of them has ever had an experience of what it means to go through an ordeal of violence. Turning this issue into politics is the last thing Malawians could have expected to hear from a government in waiting – if indeed thus what opposition means.
Nonetheless, who can blame the politicians when it was custodians of human rights in Malawi that started it all? Their reaction to the suggestion by the President was that of total condemnation regardless of what the suggestion was meant to achieve. The so-called human rights watchdogs never gave a chance to Malawians to debate the proposal and look at the pros and cons. Thus human rights – Malawi style. In other words, our colleagues who work for human rights organizations are the know-it-all supermodels and can positively think of a proposal only when it comes from among themselves. Sad.
Human rights? Whose human rights are we concerned with?
It makes some of us sad that we have people with little concern about our children being defiled daily, school girls and women being raped at will. Our mothers dehumanized, beaten and having their body and private parts tampered with. Gone are the days when we could leave our school girls freely walking distances to and from schools. Today we can not trust our own housemaids and watchmen. Notorious businesses are creeping in. And we want to sit there and silently watch. Poor we.
Its unfortunate but we do not need to overemphasize the fact that the so called human rights activists are only looking for their daily bread. It’s employment. They do not have the concerns of the nation at heart. We may delay if we were to waste our time listening to them. As for politicians, your guess is as good as mine.
With a level mind, President Mutharika ought to be given massive support for this brilliant proposal. Surely families that have had a share of the problems associated with violence on women and children now realizes that they have comfort in the country’s leadership. If there will be need to change the name of the camps from detention camps to something else, there will be no problem but the idea is luminous. We may see an end to the suffering that Malawian women and children have seen through the years.
And the President must know that not all will agree with his proposals regardless of how gleaming they may be. Whether it would be the fight against corruption, the fertilizer subsidy programme, the Shire Zambezi Waterway, the Kamuzu Mausoleum and many more, we still shall have people that will want to pull his legs despite having no convincing reasons. I bet he does not give up. If anything, let Malawians debate this proposal and views shared honestly. I strongly believe that we need the detention camps – it’s a solution.
* Hastings Maloya works as an Environmental Education Officer
for the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust
but writing in his personal capacity.
By HASTINGS MALOYA
If it was a prayer, I could have asked all of us to bow our heads; close our eyes and pray. Well, it’s not a prayer, but nevertheless, let us take a bit of our time and silently reflect. Just come to think of it; a 57-year old man defiles a six-month old baby. A seven-year old girl is defiled by her own teacher, let alone a headmaster. And a woman has her arms chopped by her husband or has her private parts disfigured by someone who was supposed to be her lover.
How about issues of well-dressed men caught with private parts in their bags. Talk of news of unknown assailants removing women’s breasts and gouging their eyes. Then there is the-now famous Ndirande vampire who has the audacity of changing locations in Blantyre and targeting innocent women at will. The stories are endless and they do not make good reading. Each passing day we realize that Malawi is not as safe a place to live in as it was supposed to be especially for women and children.
All these sounds and feels easy when they are just in a form of news that we read in the papers, listen on the radio or watch on TV. We can as well get used to them and let them pass.
But why are we silently reflecting today? Well, I want us to try and imagine what our reaction would be if our closest relation was such a victim. We are trying to put ourselves in an imaginary situation where our daughter has been defiled, our sister has had her private parts removed or our only child has been attacked and his eyes removed! Our imaginations go beyond the act, but now the perpetrator has been caught and enough evidence lay bare. Here we are standing in front of the handcuffed culprit.
I know different people will react differently but honestly very few will talk of forgiveness. Individually, one would think of the trauma that might have engulfed the affected community, let alone the future of the victim is he or she is lucky to be alive. One would ask why such a heartless person should be forgiven. Others would even ask the police to release the culprits so that the concerned community can provide the required chastisement that the scoundrels deserve. Unfortunately, the police won’t allow people to take the law in their hands and there is no possibility that these merciless people shall be given the stiffest penalty that would deter others from committing similar crimes.
But then as a nation, do we have in sight any means that we can use to deal away with this situation? Yes. Introduction of detention camps where all proven perpetrators should be thrown and get the heat. They should realize that our society does not need such type of people whose behaviour is more or less that of a beast. Thus the only way we will deal away with the worries that we have today.
This is where His Excellency the President Dr. Bingu wa Mutharika deserves credit for proposing the reintroduction of detention camps for perpetrators of violence against women and children. He needs to be given all the support. We can build a better Malawi.
But; hear this.
At a rally addressed by the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) in Mulanje recently, some political leaders accused the President for having proposed the introduction of detention camps. They called it dictatorship. In other words, they are not supporting stiffer punishments for people who bring calamities and anxiety in our midst. After all they are free to do what they please – this is democracy. Isn’t it?
The president’s proposal for detention camps was not meant for politicians. It was not meant for those opposing to his governing policies. And it was not made at a political rally. It was meant to give peace and harmony to our women and children. How this noble thought was turned to mean politics is yet to be clarified. One wonders whether the opposition politicians just wanted to achieve political mileage by misguiding their followers or indeed they meant what they said. Again it would be very difficult to comprehend whether any of them has ever had an experience of what it means to go through an ordeal of violence. Turning this issue into politics is the last thing Malawians could have expected to hear from a government in waiting – if indeed thus what opposition means.
Nonetheless, who can blame the politicians when it was custodians of human rights in Malawi that started it all? Their reaction to the suggestion by the President was that of total condemnation regardless of what the suggestion was meant to achieve. The so-called human rights watchdogs never gave a chance to Malawians to debate the proposal and look at the pros and cons. Thus human rights – Malawi style. In other words, our colleagues who work for human rights organizations are the know-it-all supermodels and can positively think of a proposal only when it comes from among themselves. Sad.
Human rights? Whose human rights are we concerned with?
It makes some of us sad that we have people with little concern about our children being defiled daily, school girls and women being raped at will. Our mothers dehumanized, beaten and having their body and private parts tampered with. Gone are the days when we could leave our school girls freely walking distances to and from schools. Today we can not trust our own housemaids and watchmen. Notorious businesses are creeping in. And we want to sit there and silently watch. Poor we.
Its unfortunate but we do not need to overemphasize the fact that the so called human rights activists are only looking for their daily bread. It’s employment. They do not have the concerns of the nation at heart. We may delay if we were to waste our time listening to them. As for politicians, your guess is as good as mine.
With a level mind, President Mutharika ought to be given massive support for this brilliant proposal. Surely families that have had a share of the problems associated with violence on women and children now realizes that they have comfort in the country’s leadership. If there will be need to change the name of the camps from detention camps to something else, there will be no problem but the idea is luminous. We may see an end to the suffering that Malawian women and children have seen through the years.
And the President must know that not all will agree with his proposals regardless of how gleaming they may be. Whether it would be the fight against corruption, the fertilizer subsidy programme, the Shire Zambezi Waterway, the Kamuzu Mausoleum and many more, we still shall have people that will want to pull his legs despite having no convincing reasons. I bet he does not give up. If anything, let Malawians debate this proposal and views shared honestly. I strongly believe that we need the detention camps – it’s a solution.
* Hastings Maloya works as an Environmental Education Officer
for the Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust
but writing in his personal capacity.
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