Malawi’s AG Mbeta committed to strengthen dispute resolution frameworks

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Attorney General (AG) Frank Mbeta, on Thursday officially opened the Professional Training in Arbitration organised by the Malawi Institute of Arbitrators (MIAC) in partnership with Africa Arbitration Academy, delivering his remarks virtually and reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s dispute resolution framework.

Mbeta commended the organisers for hosting what he described as timely and strategic programme aimed at enhancing professional capacity in arbitration both in Malawi and across the region.

He noted that the growth of Malawi’s economy and the increasing complexity of commercial transactions require efficient and credible mechanisms for resolving disputes.

Mbeta emphasised that arbitration has become an essential component of modern business practice, offering parties flexibility, confidentiality and efficiency in resolving commercial disagreements.

He said such mechanisms help protect business relationships, reduce delays and promote confidence among investors.

The Attorney General highlighted recent reforms made to the Arbitration Act as part of the government’s broader effort to modernise the legal framework governing dispute resolution.

He added that further enhancements are being considered to ensure alignment with international standards and to position Malawi as a competitive and reliable venue for arbitration proceedings.

He also underscored the need to build a strong pool of experienced and ethical arbitrators, expand public awareness of arbitration as a viable alternative to litigation and embrace technology to improve the efficiency of proceedings including virtual hearings and secure digital platforms.

Mbeta acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly with regard to accessibility and affordability for small and medium-sized businesses.

He called for innovative approaches that ensure arbitration is not limited to large commercial entities but becomes a practical option for all.

He praised the Africa Arbitration Academy for its continued leadership in promoting African expertise and supporting cross-border collaboration in dispute resolution.

He said such initiatives contribute significantly to raising the continent’s profile in global arbitration.

Looking ahead, the Attorney General expressed optimism that Malawi can position itself as a regional centre for arbitration through sustained collaboration between government institutions, the judiciary, the private sector and the legal community.

He said a vibrant arbitration culture would support economic development, attract investment and strengthen the administration of justice.

Mbeta concluded by urging participants to fully engage in the training and apply the knowledge gained to advance the country’s dispute resolution systems.

The virtual session drew participants from Malawi and beyond, reflecting growing regional interest in arbitration as a driver of commercial stability and economic growth.


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Michiru Girls Secondary students arrested over suspected arson

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Authorities in Blantyre are investigating a suspected arson incident at Michiru Girls Secondary School, where police have arrested 21 students believed to have played a role in fires that destroyed key structures on campus.

The arrests follow a blaze that erupted in the early hours of Thursday, reducing a student hostel and the head teacher’s office to ashes.

Police say the incident appears to have been coordinated, though inquiries are still underway to establish the full extent of the students’ involvement.

Blantyre Police deputy spokesperson Doris Mwitha confirmed the development in an interview with MaraviPost publication, describing the situation as “deeply troubling and unfortunate.”

She said officers responded swiftly after receiving an alert from school authorities.

According to Mwitha, investigators have been working closely with head teacher Francis Musasa, who reported that the fires may have been ignited as an act of protest.

The learners allegedly rejected the school’s decision to extend the closing date from 19 to 21 December 2025.

Sources within the school say tension had been building over the extension, which management communicated earlier this week.

Some students were reportedly unhappy with the revised schedule, claiming it would interfere with their travel plans for the holiday season.

The fire destroyed the girls’ hostel where some of the suspects were accommodated, leaving behind charred mattresses, burnt beds and piles of debris.

Several students have since been temporarily relocated while the school assesses the extent of the damage.

The inferno also gutted the head teacher’s office, burning important documents, including files, certificates belonging to former students and administrative materials essential to daily operations.

Another section affected was the storage room, which held various school supplies.

Among the destroyed property were 90 brand-new floor tiles that had been set aside for upcoming renovations.

School authorities say the incident has disrupted not only the learning environment but also ongoing improvement projects.

They have expressed disappointment that a facility meant to support students’ education has been turned into a crime scene.

Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the motives, identify all responsible parties and assess the total value of the damage. They say additional arrests are possible as evidence continues to emerge.

Mwitha emphasized that acts of vandalism and arson in learning institutions will not be tolerated, warning that those found guilty will face the full force of the law. She added that safeguarding schools remains a top priority as the academic calendar draws to a close.


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Insightful lawmaker Anthony Masamba pushes salaries, allowances cuts to support Mutharika’s Govt austerity measures

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-In a rare insightful and adorable of people centred legislator for Malawi Congress Party (MCP)’s Mchinji North East Anthony Masamba has called on lawmakers consider reducing their own salaries and fuel allowances to support President Peter Mutharika’s government austerity measures.

Despite Masamba’s good intention for the country amid ailing economy, many greedy Members of Parliament (MPs) stood against him in Parliament on Tuesday afternoon.

The well-trained media personnel Masamba raised the point while contributing to debate on an amendment bill seeking to revise the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate.

“Is it right for us to enjoy full salaries and fuel benefits while imposing punitive measures on poor Malawians?

“Why can’t we trim our benefits to save some money for our people?” He asked, prompting murmurs—mostly in disagreement—across the chamber.

First Deputy Speaker Victor Musowa responded Masamba by urging him to pursue the idea through a Private Member’s Bill.

“The chair has received your request. If you want to implement it, present it during Private Members Business and this House will support you,” Musowa appealed.

Meanwhile, Malawians across the country have lauded Masamba for showing a true colour of legislator who puts the nation first than personal interests.

“Titakhalanawo 20 ma MPs ngati akulu awawa, it’s my hope kuti Malawi athakukhala dziko lokoma kwambiri. Aliyense waona yekha kuti ma MPs aja tidawavotera aja amangotinamiza kuti amakonda ma constituencies athu, anthu aja amangowona zammimba mwawo.

“Ulemu wanu Honourable Anthony Masamba Mulungu azikudalitsani. Zangovuta kuti inuyo mulinokha ku parliament yemwe mumalakalaka kuona a Malawi akukhala moyo woyenera,” lauds Limbani Chisale from Ntcheu.


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Malawi mourns former Flames Striker Esau “Black Mamba” Kanyenda

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawian football fraternity is mourning the passing of former Flames striker Esau “Black Mamba” Kanyenda, who has died in the United Kingdom after being diagnosed with liver cancer.

Kanyenda, 43 years old, revealed his battle with the illness on his Facebook page on Monday, December 1st, 2025, where he appealed to the public for prayers as he fought for his life. Sadly, he succumbed to the disease shortly afterwards.

Esau Kanyenda had been living in the UK since retiring from professional football in 2018, ending his illustrious career with Mighty Wanderers. Widely respected for his pace, strength and discipline, Kanyenda remains one of Malawi’s most iconic exports.

His football journey began in 1998 with Dwasco FC, from where he rose to become a fully fledged international star.

He later moved to South Africa, where he played for Jomo Cosmos and Polokwane City.

His impressive performances earned him a move to Europe, spending several seasons in Russia with Lokomotiv Moscow, Rotor Volgograd, FC Kamaz and Dynamo Bryansk.

In 2012, he also had a brief stint in Denmark, continuing to showcase his versatility and experience on the pitch.

Among those paying tribute is former Flames defender and close friend Elvis Kafoteka, who shared emotional reflections on their bond.

“Esau was very humble. He was my roommate every time we went to camp for the national team. We would always encourage one another,” Kafoteka said.

“He was someone who was serious whenever he was in the country for national duty,”Kafoteka explained in an interview with MaraviPost publication.

Kafoteka further revealed a personal gesture inspired by their friendship.

“It’s also the reason I picked jersey 12, because he was putting on jersey 11,” he added.

Kanyenda’s death leaves a huge void in Malawi football, where he is remembered not only for his achievements but also for his humility, leadership and commitment to the game.

His legacy as one of the finest strikers to wear the Flames jersey will live on.


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Storm-affected communities receive strong assurance of government relief efforts

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-On Monday, December 1, 2025, Malawi’s Vice President shared insights from her recent mission to Mangochi and Thyolo, where she travelled to assess the impact of the destructive storm rains on affected families.

Reflecting on the visit, the country’s deputy leader expressed gratitude to God for protecting the nation, noting that despite the severity of the storm, no lives were lost.

Her tour enabled her to witness the extent of the damage firsthand and engage in meaningful discussions with residents whose homes and livelihoods had suffered.

These interactions reinforced the administration’s resolve to prioritise support for every household struck by the disaster.

The Vice President also commended President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika for his unwavering leadership in disaster management and for ensuring swift emergency responses across the country.

Current assessments show that more than 2,421 households nationwide have been affected by various storm-related incidents since the rainy season began.

She noted that the increase in weather-related emergencies highlights the growing unpredictability of the climate and urged citizens to remain vigilant.

The Vice President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting communities facing hunger and hardship during this challenging period.

Part of the relief effort includes the continued distribution of maize to vulnerable families, a programme that will run until the next harvest.

She concluded her remarks with a heartfelt prayer, asking God to continue safeguarding the people of Malawi as they rebuild and recover.


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CDEDI demands accountability on Greenbelt Initiative Greenhouses Limited-Inosselia venture amid public funds abuses

…..CDEDI introduces free-toll line on suspected corrupt practices in Malawi

…Simply dial 4384 for free on both Airtel and TNM mobile networks

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s civil rights Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) is demanding accountability on the business venture between Greenbelt Initiative Greenhouses Limited (GBIGL) and Greenbelt Authority and Inosselia amid public funds abuse allegations.

CDEDI regrets “to inform the nation that during the previous Democratic Progressive Party regime government paid $5 million to Inosselia, an Israeli firm registered in Cyprus, to construct an intensive high value vegetable farm on some 30 hectares of land near Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe. At that time, the cost of one green house was estimated at $100,000 at most.

“To date, Malawians may wish to know that only 16 fullyfledged green houses have been constructed while four others were constructed for training. But it is sad to report that the said training no longer takes place”.

Addressing the news conference on Monday, December 1, 2025, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa says the grouping has written the Secretary to Treasury (ST) Cliff Chiunda and the Chief Secretary Justin Saidi, demanding an immediate recovery of the much-sought-after foreign exchange that is in the hands of Inosselia.

Namiwa adds, “Apart from the $5 million, the Malawi Government also pumped in K2.2 billion and K2.7 billion respectively, in respect of the beginning of what is known as the Greenbelt Initiative Greenhouses Limited (GBIGL), a purported joint venture between Greenbelt Authority and Inosselia.

“These funds pumped in the project, on 9th June 2021, through the then Acting GBA Chief Executive Officer Amon Mluwira, the Malawi Congress Party-led government signed an agreement with Inosselia, committing Malawians to what is known as management fees, pegged at $25,000 per month”.

The grouping observes further, “Despite that huge investment, the GBA, let alone the Ministry of Finance, has never been involved in the day-to-day running of the farm, and there has been no public declaration of sales from the farm.

CDEDI has invoked the Access to Information (ATI) Act, demanding the following information; GBIGL to make public its audited accounts for the six years it has been operational. GBIGL to make a detailed account of foreign exchange accrued from the vegetable exports declared to the Reserve Bank of Malawi.

“We want Malawi government to provide a detailed exit plan, including details on how the company will pay back Malawians’ money before leaving the country, since it is clear that Inosselia has breached its contract with the Malawi Government.

“Government to conduct a forensic audit of GBIGL in order to have a fair and clear view of how much Inosselia owes the people of Malawi. CDEDI appeals to government through the new Finance MinisterJoseph Mwanamvekha to review the greenhouses’ initial contract in order to serve the interest of Malawians,” appeal Namiwa.

Meanwhile, CDEDI has established a toll-free line that will enable the general public to participate in this noble initiative.

“CDEDI hereby informs the people of Malawi that it has embarked on a serious course to follow up on all monies and other resources that the country received in the name of its citizens in the form of grants, loans, royalties, fines, forfeiture and taxes.

“Well-meaning citizens are hereby advised that they can blow the whistle to anonymously report to us suspected corrupt practices, fraud, abuse of power or office, and violation of human rights by simply dialing 4384 for free on both Airtel and TNM mobile networks,” says Namiwa.


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