Greening Malawi: A new season of growth unfolds

Phalombe-(MaraviPost)-Second Vice President Enock Chihana is presiding over the launch of this year’s 2025/2026 tree planting season at Mpata Primary School in Phalombe District, under the theme “Trees and Forests for Community Resilience.”

The event marks a significant milestone in Malawi’s efforts to enhance environmental sustainability and community resilience.

Chihana has planted fruit trees in Karama Village to mark the official launch, setting an example for others to follow.

He is accompanied by Minister of Natural Resources, Alfred Gangata, highlighting the government’s commitment to environmental conservation.

Other dignitaries include the Democtric Progressive Party Regional Governor for the South, Charles Mchacha, Mayor of Blantyre City, Isaac Jomo Osman, and senior government officials, underscoring the collaborative effort to promote tree planting.

The Department of Forestry says it has planned to plant over 41 million trees during the season, which started on 15 December and will end on 15 April, a ambitious target that requires collective action.

This initiative aims to make a tangible impact on Malawi’s environment and communities, promoting a greener future for all.

The Maravi Post

Trump and Minnesota, Venezuela’s Opposition, Trump’s Healthcare Plan

Protests intensify in Minneapolis after a second ICE-related shooting, as President Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota.
Venezuela’s top opposition leader brings her Nobel Peace Prize to Washington to press her case with President Trump, even as the U.S. signals support for an interim leader.
And President Trump unveils what he calls a new healthcare plan, leaning on cheaper insurance with limited benefits as Congress debates the future of ACA subsidies.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Cheryl Corley, Tara Neill, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(1:57) Trump and Minnesota
(05:29) Venezuela’s Opposition
(09:20) Trump’s Healthcare Plan

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The Maravi Post

‘SNL’s Chris Redd Rules Out Kenan Thompson As Suspect in Beatdown

‘SNL’ Alum Chris Redd is speaking out about getting assaulted in NYC three years ago — and he’s ruling out as a suspect his ex-pal — Kenan Thompson — in the unsolved case. Chris was in New York City on Wednesday night when a photog asked him…

The Maravi Post

Ford Worker Suspended After Yelling ‘Pedophile Protector’ at Donald Trump on Video

The worker who yelled “pedophile protector” at President Donald Trump during his visit to a Ford plant in Michigan Tuesday has been suspended. 40-year-old TJ Sabula, a United Auto Workers Local 600 line worker at the factory, told The Washington…

The Maravi Post

Lilongwe Private School’s Primary headteacher Maria Asghar fired: Turbulent era ends

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Maria Asghar, the primary head of Lilongwe Private School, has departed the institution amidst controversy and chaos, bringing an end to her tumultuous tenure.

On Tuesday, 13 January, Asghar packed her belongings and bid farewell to the school. As she apologised to teachers for her years of mistreatment, they listened in silence, unmoved by her tears.

Her presence was ignored by staff, who had openly challenged her to leave. In a bid to deflect racism allegations, Asghar attempted to reallocate standard one classes, but the children caused a scene, crying and refusing to leave their teachers.

As news of the chaos reached the school board Asghar ignored their calls and hastily packed her belongings with cleaners’ help.

She then announced plans to establish her own school, citing Lilongwe Private School’s lack of resources.

Her announcement was met with incredulity and amusement from parents and teachers, who questioned her leadership and reputation.

Asghar’s crisis stems from allegations of mismanagement, favoritism, and poor working conditions.

Teachers claim she’s created a toxic environment, isolating staff and fostering division.

Specific incidents include racism allegations, unprofessional behavior, mismanagement, and staff intimidation.

The school board’s response has been criticized as inadequate, with some members defending Ms. Asghar despite concerns.

Teachers are calling for urgent administrative intervention to restore professionalism and respect. The school community is likely to breathe a sigh of relief, looking forward to a brighter future.

The Maravi Post

Museveni, Bobi Wine’s final stand: Ugandans to decide tommorow amid Internet shutdown

KAMPALA-(MaraviPost)-President Museveni held his last rally at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, showcasing the unwavering love and support of Ugandans.

Party supporters think and believe Museveni will win, as the affection Ugandans have for him mirrors the devotion Kenyans had for Raila Amolo Odinga.

Museveni declared in his final rally that Bobi Wine had planned to rig the election using hackers from the West, but unfortunately for him, his team is far ahead of the game.

However, Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has once again emerged as Uganda President Yoweri Museveni’s main challenger.

Bobi Wine, a pop star-turned-politician, has become a symbol of hope for Uganda’s youth, who make up over 80% of the population, and is determined to challenge Museveni’s nearly 40-year rule.

He has driven himself to risk everything in taking on the long-serving president, citing issues of youth joblessness, corruption, and authoritarian rule.

Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) has gained significant traction, especially among young people in urban areas, and has become the strongest challenger to Museveni’s rule.

Despite facing repeated arrests, beatings, and threats, Bobi Wine remains committed to bringing democratic reforms and ending Museveni’s rule.

His campaign focuses on addressing the pressing issues facing Uganda’s youth, who are eager for change and economic opportunities.

Museveni, on the other hand, has been in power since 1986 and has maintained a tight grip on Uganda, often using tactics to suppress opposition and dissent.

The upcoming election is shaping up to be a crucial test of Uganda’s democratic process, with Bobi Wine’s challenge posing a significant threat to Museveni’s rule.

As the country heads towards the polls, the world is watching closely to see whether Uganda will continue on its current path or embark on a new journey towards democracy and reform.

The Maravi Post