BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Select Financial Services, one of Malawi’s lending institutions, has called for stronger collaboration between the government and the microfinance sector to sustain financial inclusion amid Malawi’s current economic challenges.
Founded in 2007, Select Financial Services provides credit and financial solutions to both public and private sector employees.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Akuzike Kafwamba said that despite inflationary pressures and currency fluctuations, the microfinance sector continues to play a vital role in helping Malawians build financial resilience, hence the need for collaboration.
“We have seen how access to affordable financial services can transform lives. Our focus remains on providing practical solutions that help individuals and businesses stay afloat, even in difficult economic times,” said Kafwamba.
Kafwamba said the institution’s 17 years of experience have deepened its understanding of Malawi’s financial realities, enabling it to serve clients often excluded by traditional banking systems.
“Our goal is not only to lend money but to empower people with financial knowledge and tools that promote stability and growth,” said Kafwamba.
He urged policy makers to establish frameworks that support innovation, reduce barriers to access, and promote collaboration between regulators and financial service providers.
“If we work together, government, private sector, and communities, we can build a more inclusive financial system that works for every Malawian,” added Kafwamba.
A finance expert and senior lecturer in accounting and finance at Millennium University, Richard Tembo commenting on the matter, stressed Select Finance Services’ call on the importance of collaboration between the government and microfinance institutions.
“The government provides policy direction and ensures financial stability, while microfinance institutions turn those policies into real financial access for people. Working together ensures support mechanisms like consumer protection, financial literacy programs, and responsible lending standards are well aligned.”
“During economic turbulence, timely access to small loans allows households to manage shocks, maintain consumption, and invest in small ventures. That’s where institutions like Select come in handy,” said Tembo.
Select Financial Services operates in all the four regions in Malawi and is part of the broader Select Africa Group, which offers microfinance products in multiple African countries including Lesotho, Eswatini, Kenya, Uganda, and Namibia.
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LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)—Standard Bank has announced the de-commissioning of the Unayo payments platform effective October 31, 2025.
While Unayo is also undergoing de-commissioning in other African countries, the Malawi decision becomes effective from October 31, 2025.
Between June 2025 to the effective date of de-commissioning, Standard Bank Plc has been undertaking a seamless transition and transfer of our customers from Unayo to other payments channels available under the 247 Digital Banking ecosystem.
Unayo was launched in Malawi in September 2021.
Said Head of Brand and Marketing Tamanda N’gombe; “Our immediate priority is to ensure a seamless transition for all affected clients, merchants, and partners. A comprehensive closure plan was designed to minimize any disruption, including providing clear communication, guidance on alternative solutions as well as required support.”
Ng’ombe said in arriving at its decision, Standard Bank Plc put weighty and comprehensive consideration into consultations with key stakeholders, review of their feedback and needs, and exploring alternative approaches and solutions to maintain seamless digital payment services.
“We would like to reassure all our stakeholders that this decision will not deter Standard Bank Malawi from exploring new and more innovative solutions that will continue to benefit communities, businesses and many others,” she said.
The Head of Brand and Marketing added that Standard Bank remains deeply committed to the success of this nation and will continue to be guided by our purpose, which is Driving Malawi’s Growth.
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In a nation where leadership often grapples with the challenges of governance, President Peter Mutharika’s recent decision to conduct government business from his private residence at Page House in Mangochi is both remarkable and revealing.
This extraordinary move follows the shocking revelation that Kamuzu Palace—the official seat of the Malawian presidency—has been left in a deplorable state, rendered uninhabitable by the wanton destruction, looting, and appalling acts committed by supporters of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) following the loss in presidential by former President Lazarus Chakwera.
The gravity of this situation cannot be overstated.
The presidential palace, a symbol of national unity and authority, was subjected to unprecedented vandalism and desecration.
Reports detail that MCP operatives, who occupied the palace during Chakwera’s presidency, not only looted valuable state property but also defiled the very walls with human excrement—a grotesque act that speaks volumes about the disregard for national dignity and decorum.
Such actions are not merely acts of vandalism; they represent a deep betrayal of the trust bestowed upon public servants to safeguard the nation’s heritage and institutions.
It is profoundly disheartening that President Chakwera has remained silent in the face of these atrocities.
His failure to publicly condemn the actions of his party’s supporters suggests a troubling denial of the reality and magnitude of the damage inflicted.
This silence raises uncomfortable questions about his leadership and accountability.
When a leader fails to denounce such egregious misconduct, it inadvertently signals complicity or at least tacit approval.
Malawi deserves leaders who uphold justice and take unequivocal stands against wrongdoing, regardless of political affiliations.
Against this backdrop of destruction and neglect, President Mutharika’s response stands out as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Malawian people.
By choosing to operate from his private home, the President has demonstrated selflessness and a remarkable commitment to ensuring that governance continues uninterrupted—despite the personal inconvenience this entails.
A private family residence is meant to be a sanctuary for one’s loved ones, not a makeshift government office.
That President Mutharika willingly embraces this sacrifice underscores his prioritization of national interest over personal comfort.
The situation creates multiple layers of inconvenience and challenges.
Running government operations from a private residence does not provide the same level of security, infrastructure, or administrative efficiency that an official state house offers.
Yet, President Mutharika has taken this step to maintain continuity in leadership and service delivery.
This decision reflects a leader deeply connected to his responsibilities and mindful of the welfare of Malawians who expect stability and effective governance.
Moreover, the damage inflicted by MCP supporters is not just physical but symbolic.
It is an assault on Malawi’s collective spirit and institutional integrity. Such behavior undermines public confidence in political actors and threatens to erode the democratic norms that are vital for national progress.
The looting and desecration of Kamuzu Palace cannot be allowed to go unpunished. Justice must prevail.
The Mutharika administration has a solemn duty to ensure that all individuals implicated in this criminal behavior are thoroughly investigated, arrested, and prosecuted according to the law.
Only through accountability can Malawi begin to heal from these wounds and restore respect for its cherished institutions.
In condemning these acts, it is also imperative to recognize the courage and resilience of President Mutharika.
His leadership during this difficult period sends a powerful message that the presidency transcends bricks and mortar; it is about serving the people with integrity and dedication, regardless of the circumstances.
His heart for Malawians shines through this adversity, and for that, he deserves commendation.
The political landscape in Malawi is often fraught with tensions and challenges, but the recent events surrounding the presidential palace should prompt all stakeholders to reflect on the importance of respect, accountability, and unity.
Political rivalry should never devolve into destruction of national property or acts that degrade the dignity of the state.
Malawi’s future depends on leaders who champion the rule of law and foster an environment where governance is conducted with honor and respect for the nation’s heritage.
The current situation is a stark reminder that political power must be wielded responsibly.
The actions of Chakwera’s cronies have not only inconvenienced the President but also disrespected the Malawian people.
The damage to Kamuzu Palace is a blow to national pride, and it is incumbent upon all citizens and leaders to reject such behavior unequivocally.
President Peter Mutharika’s decision to run government affairs from his personal residence is a courageous and commendable act of leadership.
It highlights his commitment to the people of Malawi, even when faced with personal discomfort caused by the reckless and condemnable actions of political opponents.
The Mutharika government must move swiftly to hold those responsible for the desecration of Kamuzu Palace accountable, ensuring that justice is served and that such violations never happen again.
As Malawi navigates this challenging chapter, it is clear that true leadership is measured not by comfort or convenience but by the willingness to prioritize the nation’s welfare above all else.
President Mutharika has shown this leadership in abundance.
Feedback : 0992082424 Email: Jonesgadma@gmail.com
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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-A fintech company, MoPay and agriculture manufacturing firm Thanthwe Farms emerged top winners of the 2025 Phuka micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) awards sponsored by Standard Bank Plc.
The Phuka awards came amidst calls by Standard Bank Plc and government for small businesses to step up efforts in contributing to much-needed foreign currency by intensifying the export drive.
MoPay and Thanthwe Farms dominated the awards by winning in their respective categories of technology and manufacturing before capping the glittering awards night on Wednesday in Lilongwe as overall winners in the Best SME and Best Woman-led business of year, respectively. Each received a total of K9 million.
Leading calls for export intensification, Chief Executive Phillip Madinga said the MSME sector which accounts for 47 percent of GDP, has the potential to reverse years of foreign currency shortages in Malawi.
He estimated its export value at U$2 billion annually if each of the country’s 1.6 million MSMEs exported a minimum of U$100 worth of goods monthly.
“We can only hope to achieve this if we work collectively to harness the potential of small business. Our decision to partner SMEDI and government for these awards aligns with our track record of supporting MSMEs in economic recovery and growth efforts,” said Madinga.
He said entrepreneurship thrives on responding to challenges and solving complex economic and societal problems.
“Through these prestigious awards Standard Bank Plc would like to recognize and partner those MSMEs rising to the occasion in helping address Malawi’s economic problems through innovative approaches,” he added.
New Principal Secretary in the reconstituted Ministry of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism Wiskes Nkombezi hailed the partnership by Standard Bank and the Small and Medium Enteprises Development Institute (SMEDI) Corporation to recognise the MSME sector through the Phuka awards.
“SMEs represent the backbone of our economy. They play a crucial role in employment generation, providing jobs and opportunities within our communities which promotes inclusive growth and social cohesion,” said Nkombezi.
For his part SMEDI Acting CEO Otaniele Chezani said the awards represented the power of turning every dream into reality and in the transformation of the country’s economy.
“The power to transform Malawi does not only rest in the ivory tower boardrooms, but in the workshops, farms, and small factories of the every day dreamers who don’t give up,” said Chezani.
Other category winners of the 2025 Phuka awards are Feco Investments (Agribusiness), Adventures by Colby (Tourism), Yami Gemstones (Mining), EnviroSolutions (Green Business), and Milanzi Interiors (Furniture and Joinery).
Category finalists each received K2 million and a certificate of recognition.
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George Clooney was reportedly “boiling with anger” after reading scandalous claims made against him in Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir … according to OK! In “Nobody’s Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice”, published…
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LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Former President Joyce Banda has called for stronger and more strategic investment in Malawi’s mining sector, describing it as a potential catalyst for the country’s economic transformation.
Speaking on Monday upon her arrival at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where she attended the TANA High-Level Forum on Peace and Security, Dr. Banda emphasized that Malawi must move decisively to protect and fully benefit from its mineral resources.
She noted that the global demand for Africa’s natural resources is intensifying, urging government and investors to ensure that the country’s mineral wealth particularly the rutile deposits in Kasiya, Salima District is properly managed for the benefit of Malawians.
“The world is scrambling for Africa’s resources, and Malawi must not be left behind. We need to safeguard our minerals and ensure they contribute to transforming our economy,” said Banda.
She highlighted that the continent currently faces more than 50 conflicts, many of which she said are fuelled by external interests that exploit divisions and corruption to destabilize African nations.
“The forum provided an opportunity for African leaders to reflect on homegrown solutions for peace and development,” said Banda.
The TANA Forum is a premier African platform that brings together heads of state, policymakers, and development partners to deliberate on pressing peace and security challenges affecting the continent, and to propose innovative, sustainable solutions.
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