WFP handover U$1 million chemical testing machine to MBS

By Precious Mtuwa

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The World Food Programme (WFP) and the Japanese Government has handed over a Pesticide Residue Testing Equipment Machine to the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS), aiming to enhance the country’s sesame testing capabilities and meet international quality standards.

Malawi has been facing a significant challenge in the sesame industry, with a 70% rejection rate of its exports due to non-compliance with international quality and safety standards.

With this Liquid Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer (LCMS) Machine, Malawi is expected to address the non-compliance and unlock its potential in the global sesame markets and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

The equipment, will enable MBS to conduct advanced analytical tests on sesame products, including aflatoxin and pesticide residue testing which will boost Malawi’s sesame exports, particularly to Japan, where demand is high.

The Deputy Director General of MBS, Thomas Senganimalunje, stated that the equipment is of great significance in the efforts to achieve quality in agricultural products for trade.

MBS will be able to provide accurate and reliable testing services, ensuring that sesame meets international standards.

96 staff members of MBS were trained in advanced on analytical techniques by experts from the National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA).

The training equipped them with the skills and knowledge to conduct complex tests and provide accurate results.

Concurring with the Deputy Director General of MBS, the Director of Industry, Clement Phangaphanga, said that this is a huge opportunity for Malawi.

The machine will benefit traders, as they will be fully certified, leading to fewer rejections of sesame.

WFP Country Director, Dr. Hyoung-Joon Lim, stated that WFP is working to build resilient, inclusive, and market-oriented agricultural systems that align with Malawi Vision 2063.

“LMCS is capable of detecting ultra-trace pesticide residues with speed and precision.

“This will unlock structured markets and elevate Malawi’s position in regional and global trade, especially for high-value crops like sesame, cowpea, and sorghum,” Dr. Hyoung-Joon Lim said.

On his part, the Ambassador to Malawi, Yoichi Oya, said that sesame is an indispensable food in Japan, and Malawi holds tremendous potential to increase sesame production as Malawi has quality of Sesame.


Discover more from The Maravi Post

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

The Maravi Post

Chief Chadza Hails Apostle Kawinga for Transforming Farmers’ Lives Through Major Donation

Chief Chadza
Chief Chadza Hails Apostle Kawinga for Transforming Farmers’ Lives Through Major Donation

By Dorica Mtenje

LILONGWE (Maravipost): The spirit of community empowerment came alive in Traditional Authority (T/A) Chadza’s area in Lilongwe on Tuesday, as Chief Chadza pledged to make full use of farming materials donated by Salvation for All Ministries International, led by Apostle Clifford Kawinga.

The generous donation, made during a colorful handover ceremony, included hoes, fertilizer, improved seeds, irrigation equipment, and 6,000 bags of maize.

The support targets three farming groups Sasa, Kachitsa, and Chipwete operating under Chief Chadza’s jurisdiction.

Speaking during the event in Senior Chief Chadza,Apostle Kawinga said his ministry’s vision is to ensure that no Malawian goes hungry, emphasizing the need to empower rural farmers with the tools and resources necessary for sustainable food production.

“Our goal is simple to fight hunger and poverty through practical support. We want to see every household food-secure and able to benefit from their hard work,” said Apostle Kawinga.

The donation brought smiles and hope to the beneficiaries, who described the gesture as timely as they prepare for the new farming season.

Chairperson of Sasa Farming Group, Edna Jere, said the assistance will transform their farming experience.

“In the past, we harvested very little because we didn’t have proper tools. Now, with these materials, we expect to produce more and improve our lives,” Jere shared joyfully.

Another beneficiary, Eda Jere from Mingo Village, echoed similar sentiments, pledging to work hand in hand with fellow farmers to make Apostle Kawinga’s vision a reality.

“We will work together and use these resources wisely so that our community can be an example of progress,” she said.

In his remarks, Chief Chadza thanked Apostle Kawinga for remembering rural farmers, noting that such interventions align with government efforts to promote food security and economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

“This support is a blessing to our people. It will not only improve productivity but also uplift lives in our community,” said the chief.

As the rainy season approaches, hope has been rekindled in T/A Chadza’s area a hope rooted in faith, hard work, and the belief that when communities unite, hunger can truly become a thing of the past.


Discover more from The Maravi Post

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

The Maravi Post

Eight suspected MCP regime’s panga-wielding thugs granted bail

….Lilongwe court releases accused on strict conditions, including new sureties and mandatory police reporting

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Lilongwe Senior Resident Magistrate Court has granted bail to eight suspects accused of disturbing peaceful demonstrations by civil servants at Area 18 Memorial Tower on March 19, 2025.

The accused were reportedly involved in acts that disrupted the ongoing demonstrations, which were organized by civil servants demanding improved working conditions and timely salary adjustments.

According to court records, the suspects denied the charges leveled against them, maintaining their innocence and asserting that they were wrongfully accused.

It has been established that the same individuals are already on bail in three other separate cases currently pending before different courts.

Despite their previous bail status, the suspects were re-arrested last week shortly after being granted bail by Magistrate Wanangwa Nyirenda in one of their other ongoing matters.

Presiding over the case, Resident Magistrate Precious Kondowe granted the suspects bail upon fulfilling specific financial and procedural conditions.

Each suspect was released on a bail bond of K200,000, while two new sureties — different from those in their other three cases — were each bonded at K2 million.

Magistrate Kondowe emphasized that the sureties must be reliable individuals of good standing who can ensure that the accused comply with all bail conditions and attend all future court proceedings.

As part of the bail conditions, the suspects are required to report to Area 30 Police Headquarters every fortnight on Fridays.

They have also been strictly warned against interfering with witnesses or engaging in any activities that might jeopardize ongoing investigations.

The court further cautioned that any violation of these conditions would result in an immediate revocation of bail and possible remand pending trial.

Observers have noted that the case continues to attract public interest, given the repeated court appearances of the accused and their involvement in multiple ongoing legal proceedings.

The matter has since been adjourned to a later date for further hearing, with prosecutors expected to present witness testimonies and additional evidence.

The development marks yet another chapter in the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to maintain order and uphold justice following a series of demonstrations in the capital earlier this year.


Discover more from The Maravi Post

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

The Maravi Post

FAMA ropes in Nigerian, Ghanaian movies makers for Dec 19 Gala Awards

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Film Association of Malawi (Fama) has roped in filmmakers from Nigeria and Ghana for the Malawi Film Awards & Gala.

The Gala awards are slated for December 19, 2025 at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in the capital Lilongwe.

Among the confirmed guests including Ghanaian actress Juliet Ibrahim and Nigerian actors Ada Kilikili and Osuagu Victor.

According to Fama, the filmmakers will be accompanied by the Nigerian president of the Actors Guild, Emeka Rollas. South African actor Zolisa Xaluva was also recently announced as a confirmed guest.

Fama President Dorothy Kingston said, “The event is designed to celebrate Malawian talent while providing a platform for interaction with accomplished regional and international film personalities”

Kingston add, “The event is for all Malawians. It is an opportunity for local filmmakers, actors, and enthusiasts to meet people who inspire them and learn from their experiences.”

The gala will also feature film screenings, masterclasses, and awards to recognise contributions in the local film industry.

This is a special occasion as Malawians will have a glimpse of what it takes to watch these famous international actors this time around on the local stage.


Discover more from The Maravi Post

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

The Maravi Post

Timothy Mtambo pledges loyalty to AFORD Mutharika Govt, rejects nationwide protests

Court grants Kalindo bail
Kalindo being cheered up by AFORD President Enoch Chihana and Timothy Mtambo out the court

…..Former HRDC activist turns political ally, emphasizing commitment to governance over street activism.

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Former rights activist and now Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) Vice President Timothy Mtambo has issued a fiery statement that is sending shockwaves through both critics and allies.

In the statement, Mtambo declared his unwavering loyalty to AFORD and the current Mutharika administration, signaling a clear political alignment.

He also moved to distance himself from alleged plans for nationwide protests, emphasizing that he will not support actions that could destabilize the country.

Mtambo, who was once the face of Malawi’s street activism through the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC), acknowledged his past role in mobilizing citizens for civic causes.

However, he said that he is now fully committed to working within the political system, helping President Arthur Peter Mutharika and the government achieve their policy goals.

The former activist stressed that constructive engagement within government structures is more effective than demonstrations and confrontational tactics.

Mtambo’s statement underscores a broader shift in his political trajectory, from grassroots activism to formal participation in political leadership and governance.

Observers note that this move could strengthen AFORD’s influence in national politics while signaling to citizens that Mtambo intends to support stability rather than street-based protest.

Critics, however, may view his alignment with the Mutharika administration as a departure from his earlier activist principles, raising questions about the independence of former HRDC leaders now in politics.

Supporters argue that Mtambo’s transition reflects maturity in political strategy, focusing on delivering tangible results for the nation rather than relying on demonstrations.

By publicly rejecting plans for nationwide protests, Mtambo is also sending a message to fellow activists that dialogue and cooperation with government are the preferred channels for change.

This development marks a new chapter in Malawi’s political landscape, where former activists are increasingly integrating into formal political structures while maintaining influence over civic discourse.

Mtambo concluded his statement by reaffirming his dedication to AFORD’s values and promising to work diligently in collaboration with the government to advance national development.

The announcement has generated intense discussion among political analysts, civil society, and the general public, highlighting the evolving role of former HRDC leaders in shaping Malawi’s governance and political stability.


Discover more from The Maravi Post

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

The Maravi Post

Lilongwe woman Bertha Chikuni for stealing at a funeral

Bertha Chikuni-the suspect

By Innocent Manda

LILONGWE-(MANA)-The Malawi Police at Kanengo station in Lilongwe have arrested a 37-year-old woman, Bertha Chikuni, for allegedly stealing two mobile phones worth over MK800,000 at a funeral vigil in Area 25A.

According to Kanengo Police Public Relations Officer, Sub Inspector Gresham Ngwira, the suspect was arrested following complaints from two mourners who reported missing phones during the vigil on November 6, 2025.

“The victims discovered that their phones had gone missing the following morning, prompting immediate investigations that led to the arrest of the suspect,” Ngwira said.

Ngwira said the suspect was traced to her residence in Area 50, where police recovered the stolen phones before she could sell them to unsuspecting buyers.

“Our officers acted swiftly upon receiving the report. During the search, both the Samsung and Itel smartphones were found in the suspect’s possession,” he said.

Police investigations have revealed that the suspect has been targeting funeral gatherings and other social events, where she takes advantage of people to steal their property.

“Preliminary findings show that this is not the first time she has committed such crimes, as she has been frequenting funerals and other gatherings to steal from unsuspecting people,” Ngwira explained.

Police have since advised members of the public to remain vigilant when attending gatherings such as funerals or worship services, where thieves often take advantage of the situation.

Chikuni, who hails from Mthunzi Village in the area of Traditional Authority Kayembe in Dowa, will appear in court soon to answer theft charges.


Discover more from The Maravi Post

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

The Maravi Post