Castel Malawi, Ryalls Hotel announce All-White Party for loyal consumers

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Giant alcoholic beverage producer, Castel Malawi, in partnership with Ryalls Hotel, has announced the hosting of an All-White Party on Saturday (29 November 2025) targeting top-tier consumers and key stakeholders in appreciation for their loyal support in the year.

According to the organisers, the All-White party, which is expected to kick off by 4pm until late will see patrons being welcomed by a cocktail and snacks on arrival and will be entertained by hot DJs namely DJ Twiggy, DJ Gene and lady DJ Nyenyezi topped by a music performance by Mingoli Band.

Castel Malawi head of Communications and corporate events Deborah Matowe-Mzembe said in an interview yesterday that the event will be characterised by premium entertainment and high-end hospitality as part of Castel Malawi’s approach to enhancing consumer experience and market engagement.

“As the critical festive season approaches, Castel Malawi is strategically reinforcing its commitment to customer loyalty and delivering premium experiences through a significant collaboration with the renowned Ryalls Hotel to host the exclusive White Party.”

“This event, which serves as a major highlight in our year-end customer engagement calendar, is explicitly designed to reward our loyal consumers and strategically position our brands for the peak consumption period, demonstrating Castel Malawi’s continued investment in delivering memorable consumer value and cementing our market leadership,” said Matowe-Mzembe.

She further said the All-White Party reflects the company’s commitment to reinforcing customer loyalty and showcasing the continued growth of Castel products in the country.

“This event is not just a celebration; it is a reward to our consumers who continue to choose Castel brands. We want to give them a memorable experience while showcasing the growth, innovation and excellence of our brands,” said Matowe-Mzembe.

On her part, Ryalls Hotel Sales and Marketing Manager Sellina Chisale said they partnered with Castel Malawi on the All-White Party because both their brands share a commitment to quality, lifestyle, and creating memorable experiences.

“Castel is a household name with a strong legacy in Malawi, and Protea Hotel by Marriott Ryalls is the pioneer of hospitality in the country, carrying over a century of heritage and trust. Together, this partnership brings two respected brands blending excellence, culture, and celebration.”

“Patrons can expect an evening that reflects the best of both worlds — elegance, premium service, vibrant entertainment, and a beautifully curated all-white ambience.

“With signature Castel beverages, exceptional hospitality from The Ryalls, live music, great food, and a sophisticated outdoor setup, this promises to be a truly standout event for Blantyre.
We’re excited to welcome everyone to an unforgettable night of style, energy, and world-class hospitality,” said Chisale.

Tickets to the event are going to K35,000 and can be purchased from an online payment platform, Ulinzinga.


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NBM plc honours 6 Innovation Jam winners

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has awarded six outstanding innovators for their impactful solutions at the 2025 ICT Association of Malawi (ICTAM) Innovation Jam Awards held in Mangochi at the weekend.

Staff Nyoni emerged the overall winner under Imagine Tech category with an assistive learning platform called ‘The Blind Classroom’ designed for visually impaired learners, a solution he says is already transforming learning outcomes.

Nyoni said his innovation emerged from witnessing first-hand the academic struggles faced by visually impaired learners.

He thanked NBM plc for believing in the project which walked away with K2.5 million and a fully funded incubation programme sponsored by the Bank.

“Sometimes an idea alone is not enough you need people who believe in it. NBM plc has shown that they believe in the work we are doing, and we are truly grateful. We also encourage other organisations to support innovations, as this will help drive national development,” said Nyoni.

Earn Mwachangu emerged winner in the FinTech and Digital Economy category, receiving K2 million and an all-expenses incubation programme scheduled to take place in Zambia in 2026, under NBM plc’s sponsorship.

Other recognised winners included Zaulimi App under Agritech category, National Digital Health Systems under eHealth, Chipatala App under She-code spotlight, and E-Flood under Open-Source category, each walked away with K1.5 million.

Speaking during the awards dinner, NBM plc Mobile and e-Money Services Manager, Enala Chirwa, said the Bank has been a consistent supporter of ICTAM’s Innovation Jam since 2019 and has significantly increased its investment in 2025.

“The 2025 edition marks our highest commitment yet, with K75.5 million invested. The Bank’s motivation is anchored on two major pillars: identifying and supporting the brightest innovative minds and providing platforms for visibility and growth for innovators,” said Chirwa.

She added that the Bank’s broader mission aligns with Malawi’s digital ambitions.

“Our strategic objective is to become the most digitalised bank in Malawi by 2027. But we cannot be the most digitalised bank if the nation itself is not digitalised. And the nation can only be digitalised if we have innovation in this space. That is why NBM plc remains committed to supporting the Innovation Jam,” she said.

Chirwa emphasised that NBM plc’s involvement goes beyond awards and monetary gifts.

“Our support does not end with giving out cash prizes. We are funding an incubation programme for the winning innovators. Over the next few months, they will undergo grooming, mentorship and technical support to help them scale and strengthen their innovations,” said Chirwa.

In his remarks, ICTAM President Clarence Gama commended NBM plc for the support and the innovators for playing a crucial role in shaping Malawi’s developmental path.

“Innovators are thinkers and this country needs thinkers if we are to move forward. Our role as ICTAM is to identify these thinkers, nurture them, and through partnerships with institutions like NBM plc and UNDP, help them turn their ideas into impactful national solutions,” said Gama.

This year, NBM plc sponsored the 2024 overall winner, Goodall Salima to go to Ghana to attend the Third Annual TICON Africa Conference. 


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Sharriff, Chinkhandwe shine at NBM plc Seniors Golf Tourney  

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Bashir Sharriff and Sheila Chinkhandwe were crowned champions in the men’s and women’s divisions respectively; at the inaugural National Bank of Malawi plc (NBM) Seniors Golf Competition held at the Country Club Limbe on Saturday.

With a handicap of 20, Sharriff topped the field with a gross score of 90 and a net 70 points, earning him K200,000 and the trophy.

He was followed by NBM plc Pension Administration Limited (PAL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), William Mabulekesi, who returned a gross of 84 and a net of 70 points to claim K150,000, while Mac Hanjahanja finished third with a gross of 87 and a net 71 to walk away with K100,000.

In her category, Chinkhandwe led with a gross score of 108 and a net 85, earning her K200,000, followed by Khungekile Madise who posted a gross of 124 and a net 89, receiving K150,000.

The tournament also recognised specialty performances, with Hanjahanja winning the nearest-to-the-pin prize and High Court Judge Justice Masauko  Msungama taking the longest-drive award.

They both received K50,000 for their achievements.

Reflecting on his victory, Sharriff expressed his appreciation to NBM plc and his playing partners for a memorable day on the course.

“I have been playing this game for about 45 to 48 years. Today, I had the privilege to play with the sponsor, and I enjoyed my day on the course. I scored 45 on the front nine and 45 on the back nine. With my handicap of 20, I ended up with a net score of 70, which made me the winner of this National Bank Seniors Championship today,” said Sharriff.

Chinkhandwe, while celebrating her win, also encouraged greater participation of senior lady golfers.

“Only two ladies participated, which I found really disappointing. There are many senior lady golfers in Malawi, but for different reasons, most were unable to attend. I hope that next year we will have more women joining the competition,” said Chinkhandwe.

Speaking on the motivation behind NBM plc’s sponsorship, Mabulekesi, stressed the Bank’s commitment to wellness and active ageing.

“The National Bank takes the well-being of people seriously. We established the Wellness Programme to encourage physical activity and help people unwind from stress. When we looked at the Senior Golfers Society of Malawi, we saw retirees who needed a space to remain active, interact, and build bonds. Participating in golf keeps them physically fit and mentally engaged, helping them manage conditions like hypertension, high blood pressure, diabetes, and dementia,” said Mabulekesi.

Chairman and Captain of the Senior Golfers Society of Malawi, Eric Chinkanda, applauded NBM plc for its support of the event.

“One of our key challenges is securing sponsorships for our exclusive tournaments. Reaching out to corporate entities has been difficult, but in Blantyre we have received support from a few organisations, with the National Bank being one of the notable sponsors,” said Chinkanda.

The event was supported through a K11.2 million sponsorship package from NBM plc, which included cash prizes and golf apparel, further demonstrating the Bank’s commitment to sport, wellness, and community engagement.


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UTM criticizes DPP’s mid-year budget, warns against continued economic mismanagement

UTM president Dalitso Kabambe
UTM president Dalitso Kabambe

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The United Transformation Movement (UTM) party has strongly criticized the 2025/26 Mid-Year Budget, accusing the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government of continuing what it describes as a “failed economic path” left behind by the former Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration.

In a statement released today and signed by UTM Director of Finance and Economic Affairs Simon Mwayang’ana, the party highlighted the fragility of Malawi’s economy, citing rising food prices, foreign exchange shortages, growing public debt, increasing unemployment, and deepening poverty that continues to keep the country among the poorest in the world.

UTM acknowledged that the DPP inherited these challenges from the previous MCP government but stressed that the new administration must now take full responsibility for addressing them.

The party criticized the mid-year budget for failing to deliver solutions, arguing that the measures outlined fail to respond to the country’s urgent economic needs.

“Malawi needed discipline – it received consumption. Malawi needed a production revolution – it received tax hikes. Malawi needed liquidity control – it received expansion. Malawi needed a credible foreign exchange plan – it received administrative controls,” the statement reads in part.

UTM further noted that the budget does not adequately address structural issues and risks perpetuating fiscal mismanagement, worsening inflation, and further burdening citizens already struggling with high living costs.

The party also raised concerns about the overestimation of Gross Domestic Product projections, the inflation outlook that is not aligned with prevailing economic realities, and ongoing foreign exchange challenges that threaten to destabilize trade and business activities.

Additionally, UTM warned that fiscal deficits and domestic borrowing remain unchecked, and criticized the newly introduced tax measures as heavy, inflationary, and counterproductive, potentially undermining economic growth and development.

The statement concludes with a call for the government to implement policies that prioritize production, fiscal discipline, and sustainable economic reforms to alleviate poverty and restore public confidence in national economic management.

UTM’s critique underscores growing public concern over Malawi’s economic trajectory and highlights the pressure on the DPP to adopt bold measures to address the country’s persistent financial and structural challenges.


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256 Energy excites customers with Lilongwe’s Area 25 new Gas refilling Station opening

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-In a bid to expands access to clean energy to its customers, 265 Energy Limited has officially opened its new Gas Refilling Station at Area 25 in the capital Lilongwe.

256 Energy Limited Publicist Philip White told The Maravi Post that “The outlet is designed to make access to gas refills easier, faster, and more convenient for customers in Area 25 and surrounding locations.

“Located strategically to serve residential and commercial clients, the new Gas Refilling Station will cater to customers from Area 25, Area 49, Area 50, Area 51, and nearby communities ensuring reliable and
accessible gas services closer to home”.

White adds, “At 265 Energy, we are committed to making clean and affordable energy easily accessible to all.

“The launch of this Gas Refilling Station reflects our
ongoing effort to bring energy solutions closer to our customers while improving efficiency and service
quality.”

He explains further, “The new outlet is equipped with an electric automatic pump, which significantly reduces refill waiting times for clients, ensuring a faster and smoother experience.

“In addition to refills, the site provides assistance with
gas cylinder exchanges, safety checks, and basic user guidance for first-time customers, supported by trained
personnel”.

White assures, “Apart from its reliable gas services, 265 Energy also provides cutting-edge solar energy solutions designed
to keep homes and businesses powered during load shedding.

“Our solar systems are built for efficiency and
durability, ensuring uninterrupted power for essential appliances including lighting, fridges, TVs, computers,
air conditioners, and water pumps. Each installation is tailored to suit customers’ energy needs while helping
them save on electricity costs”

265 Energy is one leading Malawian energy solutions provider specializing in solar systems, gas
supply, and energy efficiency services.

The company is committed to promoting sustainable, affordable, and innovative energy solutions that empower communities and fuel economic growth across Malawi.

With the Area 25 outlet launched, 265 Energy now has three refilling centers in Lilongwe, along Kaunda Road
opposite Gateway Mall, Golden Peacock Mall, and Area 25 before Msungwi market.

Additional branches
are located in Blantyre (Trade Fair Grounds) and Mzuzu (Best Oil Katoto Filling Station).


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FDH Bank donates MK150 million to MUBAS endowment fund

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-FDH Bank plc has pumped K150 million into the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) Endowment Fund to support needy students and enhance the university’s sustainability.

Speaking during the handover ceremony in Blantyre on Tuesday, FDH Bank Managing Director, Noel Mkulichi, said the Bank remains committed to empowering Malawi’s youth through education, innovation and entrepreneurship.

“It is always refreshing to be on a university campus where ideas fly freely, dreams stand tall, and future leaders are nurtured,” said Mkulichi.

He explained that the support aligns with the Bank’s sustainability programme, FDH Cares, and represents a long-term investment in human capital.

“We are committed to empowering growth in our community through our sustainability programme, FDH Cares, and education is one of our key pillars. This contribution is our act of doing good, an investment that will continue to yield impact long after today’s ceremony,” he said.

Mkulichi added that the donation builds on ongoing collaborations with MUBAS, including the Graduate Start-Ups Programme, which supports young entrepreneurs.

“Some say banks do not enjoy giving, but today we break that myth, this is not just giving; it is building, empowering, and investing in Malawi’s brightest minds.” he said.

He encouraged students to take full advantage of the opportunities the Endowment Fund creates.

“Work diligently, dream boldly, and step forward with courage,” he urged.

Receiving the donation, MUBAS Vice Chancellor, Professor Nancy Chitera, applauded FDH Bank for the timely contribution, noting that it advances the university towards its three-year target of raising K5 billion for the fund.

“This donation directly advances our goal of mobilising K5 billion for the Endowment Fund,” she said.

Chitera stressed that the fund reflects MUBAS’ commitment to ensuring no student withdraws due to financial hardship.

“We want every student to have access to accommodation, food allowances, e-resources, electronic gadgets and tuition support,” she explained.

She added that contributions to the MUBAS Endowment Fund represent a strategic investment in the nation’s future.


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