The Atlas Malawi

Category: News

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart.

  • Five  candidates to participate in presidential debates

    Five  candidates to participate in presidential debates

    Malawi set to host three presidential debates as part of the 2025 Tripartite Elections, giving citizens a chance to scrutinize candidates before the polls on September 16, 2025.

    A multi-stakeholder taskforce is organizing the debates, which will be held at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) on August 21, August 29, and September 4, 2025.

    These will be the third presidential debates in the country’s history, with the first taking place during the country’s first Tripartite Elections in 2014.

    The 2025 debates taskforce consists of MISA Malawi, Media Council of Malawi, Malawi Broadcast Cooperation (MBC), Times Group, Zodiak Broadcasting Station, Nation Publications Limited, and Mibawa Television.

    Other participating organizations include The Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD), Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC), Malawi Law Society (MLS), Public Affairs Committee (PAC), NGO Gender Coordination Network (NGO-GCN), National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM), Political Scientist Association of Malawi (PSAM), National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE), Centre for Human Rights Rehabilitation (CHRR), Civil Society Agriculture Network (CISANET), NextGen Leaders Association (NEGLA), Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP), and National Democratic Institute (NDI).

    Speaking at a press briefing in Lilongwe on Monday, Golden Matonga, Chairperson of the Taskforce on Presidential Debates, stated that the taskforce believes the events will provide a platform for candidates to openly discuss and commit to addressing key policy issues.

    Matonga, who is also the Chairperson of MISA Malawi, said the debates aim to shift the focus of elections away from personality politics, religious, and tribal identities, which have historically characterized Malawi’s political environment.

    “Past election observer reports show that Malawi’s political environment during elections is characterized by personal issues, religious, and tribal identities as points for garnering support, with discussion of critical issues of national importance nonexistent or pushed to the periphery,” Matonga said.

    He added that the debates will provide a platform for open participatory democracy and a basis to hold elected officials accountable for their campaign promises, which is a necessary condition for the country’s national development. Organizing the 2025 debates gives Malawians the opportunity to scrutinize candidates and elect those with the necessary competencies to lead the country.

    Five candidates confirm their availability for the debates

    The taskforce has confirmed that five presidential candidates will participate in the debates after meeting at least seven of the eight required criteria. Matonga noted that initially, six presidential candidates were expected to participate, but following the alliance of the Democratic Progressive Party and the Alliance for Democracy (AFFORD), one was dropped.

    The candidates who will face off in the debates are Malawi Congress Party President, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera; Democratic Progressive Party President, Professor Peter Mutharika; United Democratic Front President, Atupele Muluzi; People’s Party President, Dr. Joyce Banda; and United Transformation Movement President, Dr. Dalitso Kabambe.

    According to Bornaface Chiwabana Executive Director for Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD) said the taskforce developed a set of eight criteria, of which a candidate must meet seven, to ensure that only realistic and viable candidates participate. These criteria were developed by considering international best practices from countries like Kenya, Nigeria, Canada, and the United States.

    The eight criteria are: The candidate/party/coalition must have successfully completed their registration with the Malawi Election Commission (MEC), must have been represented in the recently dissolved Parliament, A policy platform or manifesto must have been developed and publicly presented before the first debate, and the candidate/party/coalition must demonstrate an active national campaign.

    The candidate/party/coalition must have the ability to field no less than 50% of candidates in the member of parliament and ward councillor elections, proportionally distributed across all three regions of the country, must be able to demonstrate a national level of presence with organizational structures across the country, must have agreed to a commitment to non-violence and to follow the debate Code of Conduct, must have conducted democratic internal elections and the candidate’s party must be a member of the Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD).

    “The purpose of these criteria is to identify candidates with a realistic chance of being elected,” he said. “We cannot have all 17 candidates taking part in the debates; we have chosen those with realistic chances and have met the criteria. This will allow us to have quality discussions.” Chiwabana also expressed expectations that candidates will “expound on the policy issues that we are grappling with as a country so that Malawians have a wider view on options when it comes to choosing the next leader”.

    A recent study by the Institute for Public Opinion Research (IPOR) shows that Malawians value and support the need for the presidential debates. The study found that 61% of Malawians would be interested in seeing their presidential candidate take part in the debates. Furthermore, 77% reported that the debates are an important factor in their decision-making on which presidential candidate to vote for, with 51% citing that it is very important.

  • CMD commends parties for tolerant political campaigns

    CMD commends parties for tolerant political campaigns

    The Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD) has commended political parties for adopting tolerant and violence-free political campaigns, stating that doing so creates a political environment that learns from past mistakes.

    The official campaign period for Malawi’s September 16 general election was launched on Monday, July 14, following a history of escalating politically orchestrated violence. The campaign, running under the theme “Promoting Democratic Leadership Through Your Vote,” aims to inspire informed voter participation.

    In an interview, CMD Executive Director Bornaface Chiwabana said that since the campaign’s launch last month, the organization has registered few cases of violence, indicating that political parties have embraced a culture of tolerance. “So far, so good. We have been monitoring the campaign on issues of political violence. As far as the official campaign period is concerned, we have had few cases, and I think we have to commend the political parties that the message of tolerance that we have been preaching has been taken to heart. We would want to encourage them that that’s the way to go in as far as democracy is concerned,” he said.

    Chiwabana emphasized the need for issue-based politics and a culture of tolerance to avoid the political violence experienced in the past. To ensure violence-free politics, the CMD is among the stakeholders that have organized three presidential debates, scheduled for August 21, August 29, and September 4 this year.

    Chiwabana also expressed his expectation that candidates will “expound on the policy issues that we are grappling with as a country so that Malawians have a wider view of options when it comes to choosing the next leader.”

    Golden Matonga, Chairperson of the 2025 Debates Taskforce and MISA Malawi, said it is time for Malawi to have candidates who can openly discuss and commit to addressing key policy issues. He believes the debates will shift the focus of elections away from personality politics, religious, and tribal identities, which have historically characterized the country’s political environment.

    The Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD) is a membership organization primarily for political parties represented in the National Assembly of Malawi. Its membership is extended to non-parliamentary parties, which are represented on the CMD Board as a bloc.

    Established in 2005, the CMD is bound by the collective will of its member political parties to ensure the entrenchment of multiparty democracy by encouraging and supporting dialogue among them. This collective will has led the CMD to initiate a number of cross-party programs aimed at developing the capacity of political parties so they are better positioned to champion their causes.

  • MRA trains journalists on Msonkho Online

    MRA trains journalists on Msonkho Online

    Journalists in the country have a bigger role in handling matters of public interest.

    These remarks were made during the media Training which was conducted by The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA)  in partnership with DIZ in Blantyre today.

    In his remarks Henry Mchazime, MRA communications officer, said as part of modernizing and automating the country’s tax system, the Authority has introduced Msonkho Online , a web based integrated tax administration system where taxpayers access tax services.

    He said, The system manages domestic taxes such as Income Tax, Value Added Tax, Withholding Tax, Fringe Benefits Tax, Provisional Tax, Domestic Excise Tax, Non-Resident Tax and Pay As You Earn (PAYE), among others.

    Mchazime added that Msonkho Online is convenient, secure and accessible at any time. It provides a premier online taxpayer service, where one can quickly and easily register for tax, file tax return or pay taxes 24/7 via the MRA website www.mra.mw.

    Mcheza has also called upon tax payers to continue contributing their fair share of taxes voluntarily, siting that taxes paid to MRA enable the Government to implement various social services such as the buying of medicines for our hospitals, buying of learning and teaching materials in public schools, and paying of salaries to civil servants among others.

    He then called upon Journalist yo help them giving out valid information concerning Msonkho online

  • Soche Police arrest 14 in crime crackdown operation

    Soche Police arrest 14 in crime crackdown operation

    In a decisive move to enhance public safety and security, Soche Police in Blantyre City arrested 14 individuals on Friday, August 8, 2025, suspected of engaging in various criminal activities within the area.

    The arrests followed an intelligence-led operation targeting illegal liquor sales and unlicensed drinking spots commonly referred to as shebeens which authorities say have increasingly become hideouts for criminal elements.

    Soche Police Station deputy public relations officer Sergeant Hopeness Potani said the crackdown focused on key locations under Soche Police’s jurisdiction, including Zingwangwa, Manja-3 Ways, and Soche Quarry.

    She said Among the suspects, four individuals—Levi Zuze (18), Alexander Palasi (45), John Walani (26), and Oscar Sanudi (38) ,were apprehended for operating and selling liquor without a license.

    Sergeant Potani added that another suspect, Lonjezo M’baluku (22), was arrested for possession of cannabis sativa.

    The remaining suspects face various charges: two were picked up for theft, one for unlawful wounding, and four for being idle and disorderly. All 14 individuals are expected to appear in court soon to answer the charges.

    Soche Police have reaffirmed their commitment to upholding law and order in the community.

    “We will not relent in enforcing relevant laws aimed at creating a safer zone for our residents,” said Sergeant Potani

    She then encouraged residents to continue working with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities as part of ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the area.

  • MRA tax recognition award elates NBM plc

    MRA tax recognition award elates NBM plc

    National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has expressed gratitude and pride for the prestigious Certificate of Recognition it received for outstanding commitment to tax compliance and invaluable contribution to national development from the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA).

    The award was presented during MRA’s 25th anniversary celebrations held at Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe on Friday.

    NBM plc Chief Finance Officer Daniel Jere said in an interview, that the recognition affirms the Bank’s position as a model corporate citizen.

    He stated that over the years, the Bank has generated high profits, resulting in significant tax contributions to the national purse, often exceeding most players in the market.

    “We are honoured to receive this recognition from MRA. It is testament to our commitment to fulfilling our tax obligations diligently and on time. By paying our taxes, we directly contribute to the development of Malawi, and we will continue to uphold this standard as part of our corporate responsibility,” said Jere.

    Jere added that the recognition not only highlights NBM plc’s contribution to the country’s fiscus but also bears testimony to its dedication to national development.

    “This award inspires us to continue being exemplary in compliance matters. We understand that every tax kwacha we remit goes towards funding essential services and infrastructural development, amongst other needs, which are vital for the growth of our economy and the well-being of Malawians.”

    “As one of the country’s leading financial institutions, NBM plc pledges to maintain the highest standards in tax compliance, continuing to contribute meaningfully to Malawi’s economic growth through timely and accurate payment of taxes,” explained Jere.

    MRA’s 25th anniversary celebrations served as a platform to acknowledge organisations and individuals that have played a significant role in supporting the country’s revenue mobilisation agenda.

    The event also reflected on MRA’s journey since its launch in 2000 and its role in funding Malawi’s development priorities.

  • Win Big*474# to conduct fifth Mazda Demio draw

    Win Big*474# to conduct fifth Mazda Demio draw

    Win Big *474# is set to conduct it’s fifth Mazda Demio draw this Saturday, August 9.

    The Mazda Demio is worth K20 million.

    According to Win Big ambassador Onesimus, Since its official launch on February 26, the Win Big Imbani *474# Promotion has turned ordinary moments into extraordinary wins.

    With over 4,000 winners already confirmed, this is not just a promotion — it’s a movement changing lives across Malawi.

    “From Mazda Demio cars worth mwk 25 million, to motorcycles, TVs, bicycles, and daily cash prizes, the rewards are real, and thousands are walking away with them every week. The numbers don’t lie and every day, new winners are emerging.

    “People who never imagined holding K1 million are now winning it. Others are gaining tools like motorcycles to earn a living. This promotion isn’t just about prizes — it’s about empowering everyday Malawians.”

    “As the competition rolls on, there’s no better time to enter. Prizes are increasing. Winners are being celebrated every day. The process is fair, automatic, and everyone has an equal chance,” he said

    For one to join the promotion, dial 474# to play , or call *474100# to gift a ticket to a friend.

    “Whether it’s a car – Demio new face, cash, a smart TV, or even a life-changing motorcycle, Win Big is your chance to turn hope into reality. Thousands have won. Why not you? Dial *474# now – and Win Big, live bigger,” he said

     

     

     

    Onesimus and WinBig Imbani *474# are making dream Coming True Daily:

    Over 4,000 Winners Already in the Life-Changing WinBig imbani *474# Promotion and other 20,000 to come, might be next.

    From disbelief to keys in hand – Malawians are winning big, and you’re next!

    Since its official launch on February 26, the Win Big Imbani *474# Promotion has turned ordinary moments into extraordinary wins. With over 4,000 winners already confirmed, this is not just a promotion — it’s a movement changing lives across Malawi.

    From Mazda Demio cars worth mwk 25 million, to motorcycles, TVs, bicycles, and daily cash prizes, the rewards are real, and thousands are walking away with them every week. The numbers don’t lie and every day, new winners are emerging.

    🎉 “I never thought I could own a car,” says Rexa Chimatiro, a spices seller from Ntcheu, who drove away with a Mazda Demio new face. “I was inspired by last month’s winner. Some doubted me, but this car is proof — anyone can win. I didn’t even know how to drive. I’ll learn now, in my own car.”

    Like Emmanuel, Harry Gawani from Salima was once skeptical — until he won a motorcycle. “At first, my friends laughed and said the winners are already chosen. But when I brought the motorcycle home, everything changed. Now, some of them have already won too!”

    Rizick Silibonde, a farmer from Karonga who won K1 million, describes the promotion simply: “You are almost guaranteed to win something if you play. This competition was truly designed to uplift lives.”

    The campaign’s ambassador, Malawian music sensation Onesimus, says the impact has been “massive and emotional.”

    “People who never imagined holding K1 million are now winning it. Others are gaining tools like motorcycles to earn a living. This promotion isn’t just about prizes — it’s about empowering everyday Malawians.”

    As the competition rolls on, there’s no better time to enter. Prizes are increasing. Winners are being celebrated every day. The process is fair, automatic, and everyone has an equal chance.

    For one to join the promotion, dial 474# to play , or call *474100# to gift a ticket to a friend.

    “Whether it’s a car – Demio new face, cash, a smart TV, or even a life-changing motorcycle, Win Big is your chance to turn hope into reality. Thousands have won. Why not you? Dial *474# now – and Win Big, live bigger,” he said

  • Ritz Holdings Limited penetrates Zambia market

    Ritz Holdings Limited penetrates Zambia market

    BMalawi’s leading force in the logistics industry, Ritz Holdings Limited, has established a new subsidiary, ZBLG Transport Company, in Zambia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s regional expansion strategy.

    The opening of ZBLG Transport Company is part of Ritz’s ongoing efforts to broaden its reach and enhance its operational capabilities that serve an increasingly diverse international market with excellence.

    Innocent Nyirongo, Commercial Services Manager at Ritz Holdings Limited, said that the move aligns with the company’s strategic vision of expanding its international footprint and solidifying its presence as a regional leader in the transportation industry.

    “This expansion underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our clients around the southern Africa region and reinforces our long-term growth strategy. The new office will enable us to support local businesses, fostinnovationer , and create more opportunities for our employees and stakeholders,” said Nyirongo.

    According to Nyirongo, the subsidiary company in Zambia serves as a gateway to numerous trade opportunities earmarked for enhancing the economic growth of the two countries.

    “We are thrilled to be expanding our presence in Zambia, a dynamic and rapidly growing market. The new office is expected to generate significant growth opportunities, as it positions Ritz Holdings Limited as a link that enables Malawi and Zambia to explore potential trade opportunities,” he said.

    The expansion reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation as it seeks to contribute positively to the local economy.

    While appreciating the power of collaboration in the industry, Nyirongo added that Ritz Holding Limited will continue partnering with other players to ensure sustainability in the sector.

    “The logistics sector plays a crucial role in the socioeconomic development of countries; therefore, we believe that strategic integrations are key to fostering growth in the industry. As such, Ritz is open to working with other logistics companies as we embark on different projects in both local and international markets,” Nyirongo added.

    Ritz Holdings Limited is a multisectoral Malawian private holdings company. The corporation plays a parent role in four subsidiaries: Ritz Technologies, Ritz Oils and Gases, Ritz Partners Limited, and ZBLG Transport Company.

     

  • Airtel Africa partners with Xtelify for Global AI Telcom Platform

    Airtel Africa partners with Xtelify for Global AI Telcom Platform

    Airtel Africa, a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services, has partnered with Xtelify, a company fully owned by Bharti Airtel that has launched a new AI-powered software platform designed to help Telcom companies globally simplify their operations. The goal is to address key challenges and enable Telcom providers to focus more on improving customer experience, reducing the number of customers leaving, and increasing customer usage and spending.

    The platform supports every part of a Telcom company and includes a smart system that uses Artificial Intelligence to give useful information and help companies make good decisions. Additionally, the platform includes a tool that helps workers handle their tasks quickly and a part that helps companies take care of their customers at every step.

    Under this partnership with Airtel Africa, Xtelify will provide its key software tools including Data Engine, Work, and IQ for use across 14 countries. These tools will help over 150,000 Airtel Africa staff gain better market insights and apply smarter strategies. They will also help protect customers from spam and fraud.

    The Xtelify IQ tool will let Airtel Africa communicate safely and quickly with customers through different ways, making the service better and customers satisfied.

    Group Chief Information Officer for Airtel Africa Jacques Barkhuizen, said the partnership represents a major step toward advancing Africa’s digital future. He emphasized that it’s a strategic move where Airtel is harnessing its own strengths to foster innovation, sustainable growth, and greater value across its 14 markets in Africa.

    “This partnership marks a transformative leap in our mission to build Africa’s digital future. By harnessing Airtel’s AI platforms that have proven scale in India, we are not only simplifying our operations but also accelerating hyper-personalized experiences for our customers.”

    Chief Business Officer at Bharti Airtel Binod Srivastava, expressed excitement to work with Airtel Africa. He explained that by combining their Xtelify platform with Airtel Africa’s goals, they aim to support digital transformation and tackle major issues like spam and fraud to protect customers.

    He added that they look forward to a strong, long-term partnership that will raise industry standards.

  • FDH Bank plc acquires controlling stake in Ecobank Mozambique

    FDH Bank plc acquires controlling stake in Ecobank Mozambique

    FDH Bank Plc has announced a definitive agreement to acquire a controlling 98.87% stake in Ecobank Mozambique SA (EMZ) from Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), marking a major milestone in its expansion strategy.

    In a press statement issued by FDH Bank plc, Company Secretary Juliano Kanyongolo states that the remaining 1.13% stake in EMZ is held by Fundo Para O Fomento De Habitação (FFH), a Mozambican housing development fund.

    “The transaction, which has received all necessary regulatory approvals, is set to be completed within the 2025 financial year, pending the fulfilment of certain conditions precedent. Upon completion, FDH Bank plc will assume effective control of EMZ, enabling strategic synergies in operations, customer innovation, and product offerings,” states Kanyongolo in the statement.

    The statement also highlights that the acquisition is a major step forward for the Bank in its ambition to become a regional banking force, and it positions the Bank to diversify its revenue streams, tap into new markets, and create long-term value for its stakeholders.

    “The deal will be fully financed through FDH Bank plc’s retained earnings and is valued at approximately 0.7% of the bank’s market capitalisation, which stood at K3.6 trillion (approximately USD 2.1 billion) as of 31 July 2025,” reads the statement.

    In his remarks, renowned motivational speaker and motivator, Benedicto Bena Nkhoma, said the move by the Bank into Mozambique is a bold move to diversify sources across the region.

    “Their recent performance and growth trajectory have enabled them to move into other markets. They have experience locally when they bought Malawi Saving Bank (MSB), and as such, they can leverage the learnings from the previous experience. Therefore, this regional expansion is good as it will bring returns in foreign currency,” said Nkhoma.

    Ecobank Mozambique SA is a licensed commercial bank that has operated in Mozambique since 2000.

    Initially established as Novo Banco SARL, it became EMZ in 2014 following its acquisition by ETI.

    The bank currently operates four branches in Mozambique’s largest cities and is regulated by the Central Bank of Mozambique.

    ETI, a pan-African banking group headquartered in Togo, is present in 35 African countries and has a global presence through its Paris banking license and offices in London, Dubai, and Beijing.

    The group is listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange, Nigerian Stock Exchange, and BRVM.

  • Atupele launches presidential bid, promises youth-led leadership

    Atupele launches presidential bid, promises youth-led leadership

    By Innocent Manda:

    United Democratic Front (UDF) president Atupele Muluzi on Friday submitted his nomination papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), officially entering the race for the 2025 presidential elections.

    The submission took place at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe, where Muluzi also unveiled Dr. Lex Kalolo as his running mate, pledging a youth-driven government anchored on economic reforms, inclusive development, and accountable leadership.

    “This is the time for the youth to lead our nation,” said Muluzi.

    He added that his choice of running mate was based on a trusted working relationship and shared vision for the country’s future.

    “I have worked with Dr. Kalolo for five years and I believe he is the right partner for this journey,” he said.

    Muluzi said his campaign will focus on issue-based politics and appealed to Malawians to judge candidates based on solutions for the country’s challenges rather than personal attacks.

    “This election is about the future of the youth and building a functioning economy,” he said.

    The UDF leader also revealed that the party is holding discussions with other political parties on potential electoral alliances but declined to disclose names.

    “We are open to collaborations, but ultimately it is Malawians who will decide,” he said.

    Muluzi was accompanied by hundreds of UDF supporters and senior party officials who marched in solidarity and cheered as he handed in his papers, marking the official start of his campaign.

    A former Minister of Economic Planning and Development and son of former President Bakili Muluzi, Atupele said his administration would prioritise youth empowerment and national unity if elected.

    Receiving the nomination papers, MEC Chairperson Justice Dr. Annabel Mtalimanja commended Muluzi for fulfilling the legal requirement and assured that the documents would undergo proper scrutiny.

    “All nomination papers will be thoroughly scrutinized in line with electoral laws,” she said.

    Later in the day, Muluzi is expected to address a mass rally at Masintha Ground in Lilongwe where the UDF will launch its 2025 election manifesto.

    MEC is expected to conclude the nomination process for all presidential aspirants by Wednesday next week as preparations for the September 16 polls continue.