Gender Minister Mary Thom Navicha: The angel of compassion championing social welfare, inclusion in Malawi

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a remarkable display of humility and dedication, Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Mary Thom Navicha, recently visited beneficiaries of the Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCTP) in Semu Village, Traditional Authority Khwethemule, Thyolo District.

Her visit was more than a routine assessment; it was a heartfelt engagement that showcased her unwavering commitment to the welfare of Malawi’s most vulnerable populations.

Minister Navicha’s approach during the visit was strikingly genuine.

She did not maintain the usual distance expected of officials; instead, she sat closely with the beneficiaries on the mat, sharing moments of joy and happiness.

This simple act of humility resonated deeply with the community, reflecting an angel of empathy whose mission goes beyond policy to human connection.

Her warmth and approachable demeanor broke barriers, allowing her to listen attentively to the needs and stories of the people she serves.

The SCTP, a lifeline for many Malawians, has been instrumental in empowering households to meet basic needs such as education and food security.

The Minister underscored the importance of this program, highlighting how it enables families to send their children to school and invest in livestock, thereby fostering long-term self-sufficiency.

Her advocacy for increasing the transfer amounts in response to the country’s economic realities demonstrates a proactive and responsive leadership style.

Minister Navicha is not content with the status quo; she is actively engaging with other Ministries and Development Partners to enhance the impact of social welfare interventions.

One of the beneficiaries, Esnart Chikaonda, a single mother of seven, eloquently testified to the transformative power of the SCTP funds. With the support she receives, Esnart can provide food for her family, an assurance that would have been difficult to achieve otherwise.

This personal story underscores the broader narrative of hope and resilience that the Minister’s work inspires throughout Malawi.

Minister Navicha’s vision aligns closely with that of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, whose principle that no one should be left behind is a guiding beacon for the government.

The Minister has taken this vision to heart by emphasizing the need to prioritize the enrolment of Persons with Disabilities into the SCTP.

Her insistence on inclusivity is not mere rhetoric; it reflects a deeply held belief in equity and justice.

Under her stewardship, the Ministry is pushing the boundaries to ensure that marginalized groups receive the attention and resources they deserve.

The scale of the SCTP’s reach is impressive—benefiting 17,000 households in Thyolo District alone and extending to 340,000 households nationwide, impacting 1.5 million individuals.

The fact that 70 percent of these households are headed by women and 40 percent by the elderly adds layers of complexity and urgency to the program’s implementation.

Minister Navicha’s hands-on leadership style is pivotal in addressing these unique challenges with compassion and strategic insight.

Her work extends beyond Thyolo. Minister Navicha’s tireless efforts have taken her to Lilongwe and various other parts of the country, where she continues to serve with an unmatched work ethic.

Despite the demanding nature of her portfolio, she has not rested; her dedication echoes the relentless spirit of a true public servant.

She embodies the angel of hope and resilience for many Malawians, tirelessly working to improve the lives of those often overlooked by society.

Mary Thom Navicha’s leadership is a beacon of inspiration. She exemplifies how humility, hard work, and empathy can transform governance and social service delivery.

Her presence among the people, sharing their space and listening to their stories, speaks volumes about her character and commitment.

In a world where political figures are often distanced from the realities of their constituents, Navicha stands out as a genuine advocate for change who is not afraid to get close to the people she serves.

Her efforts are a crucial part of Malawi’s broader social development agenda, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to inclusive growth and social protection.

By championing the SCTP and advocating for increased support and better targeting, Minister Navicha ensures that the program remains responsive and impactful.

Minister Mary Thom Navicha is more than just a government official; she is a symbol of hope, a tireless advocate for the vulnerable, and an angel of social welfare whose humility and dedication shine brightly across Malawi.

Her work embodies the spirit of service envisioned by President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward a better and more inclusive Malawi.

Through her unwavering commitment, she continues to inspire and uplift countless lives, proving that true leadership is measured not by titles but by the positive change one brings to the lives of others.


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How Malawians are losing trust in Mutharika’s DPP-led government

In Malawi, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) returned to power following the general election on September 16, 2025.

While the party’s term is in its early months, critics and observers have identified several ” false ” or highly unrealistic promises based on its 2025-2030 Manifesto and its previous governing record (2014–2020).

  1. Unrealistic Financial Pledges

The DPP’s 2025 manifesto includes several high-cost promises that economists have labeled as ” fantasies ” due to Malawi’s current debt crisis:

K5 Billion Constituency Grant :

The DPP promised to allocate K5 billion annually to each of Malawi’s 229 constituencies.

Financial experts noted this would total over K1 trillion a year, roughly a good chunk of the national budget, making it economically unfeasible.

Housing for Every Civil Servant:

A campaign pledge to provide a house to every civil servant has been described by analysts as ” laughable ” and ” out of touch ” given the massive size of the civil service.

  1. Contradicted Governance Reforms

Despite campaigning on a platform of “Restoration” and the rule of law, early actions by the new administration have contradicted these promises:

Institutional Independence:

After promising to respect state institutions, the DPP administration launched a sweeping overhaul of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) within weeks of taking power.

This included the controversial suspension of the heads of the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) and MACRA, which critics viewed as a move toward political intimidation rather than reform.

Politicization of Security:

The administration attempted to “civilianize” senior military and police leadership by redeploying ten generals and commissioners to civilian roles.

This move was halted by a court injunction, with experts warning it threatened to politicize the security sector.

3. Historical Failures
(Broken Promises from 2014-2020)

Opposition and civil society groups frequently cite unfulfilled promises from the DPP’s previous tenure as evidence of a pattern of “false promises”:

Infrastructure Projects:

Major projects such as the Nsanje Inland Port, the Mombera University, and a marine university in Mangochi remained unfulfilled or stalled despite repeated campaign pledges.

Anti-Corruption :

While the DPP repeatedly promised to end corruption, its previous administration was marred by scandals where party leaders reportedly amassed unexplained wealth while in office.

Job Creation:

The promise of large-scale job creation for youth was largely unmet, with unemployment rising significantly during the party’s previous years in power.

  1. Immediate Economic Realities

While the DPP promised ” proven leadership ” that would immediately stabilize the economy, the first few months of 2025 have seen a continuation of high inflation and fiscal stress.

Critics argue that the party’s focus on “retaliation” and purging officials has taken priority over the economic recovery it promised during the campaign.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are those of the author not necessarily of The Maravi Post or Editor


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Alex Major not relenting on Lilongwe’s Mgona MCP rally-“See You There, The rally is on!”

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Former Malawi Congress Party lawmaker for Kasungu West Alex Major has confirmed that his big year-end political rally at Mgona Ground in Lilongwe is going ahead.

The outspoken party member has called for unity and promised a clear path to the 2030 elections.

In an interview with The Maravi Post on Sunday evening, Major asked party followers and Malawians at large to ignore posts on Facebook and WhatsApp claiming the rally was fake.

Said Major: “The Ali Ndi Mau rally is set for Wednesday, 31 December 2025, at Mgona Ground in Lilongwe. The rally is on. Period. This is a call to all party members to come together, listen and get ready for the work ahead. We are united and focused.”

According to Major, the event is designed to be a show of strength, with a guest list that includes key leaders from all levels of the party—including all district chairpersons from across Malawi, the regional committee and other top party figures.

He added that the day will start with a convoy travelling from the MCP headquarters in the city centre to Mgona Ground.

The rally comes amid internal party debates and recent arrests of some MCP officials, but Major was quick to add that the party is not shaken.

He also used the interview to respond to critics who have called him a rebel or trouble-maker within the party.

“Let me be clear: I am not a rebel. I am a pillar of this party.My loyalty is solid. President Lazarus Chakwera is our leader until the next convention, whenever that is. My goal is to strengthen our party, not break it.”

The theme for the rally, printed on its posters, points directly to the future: “Tiyeni Tonse Tikamve Mmene Tiyendele Mu 2026” (Let us all hear how we will proceed in 2026). It ends with a call for solidarity: “Musaphonye! Tikhale limodzi.” (Don’t be divided! Let us be united.)

Political observers see the rally as a critical moment for the MCP, saying it’s a chance to rally the grassroots, project unity and set the tone for the 2030 elections.


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Security forces neutralize armed group in Guinea’s Capital

CONAKRY-(MaraviPost)-Guinean security forces have neutralized an armed group in the capital city, Conakry, authorities said on Saturday.

The operation, carried out by a joint unit composed of police, soldiers, and customs officers, resulted in the complete neutralization of the group and the arrest of individuals involved after several exchanges of gunfire.

According to an official statement, the armed group had subversive intentions threatening national security, prompting the security services to conduct a targeted operation in a compound in the suburbs of Conakry.

Residents reported hearing gunfire on Friday night and early Saturday in Sonfonia, a neighborhood located about 15 km from downtown Conakry.

The incident comes a day before Guinea holds presidential elections, with nine candidates participating, including junta leader General Mamady Doumbouya.

The security forces’ swift action underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining stability and security in the country.

Guinea has a complex history of military and authoritarian rule, with the current junta having seized power in September 2021.

The country is rich in minerals, but more than half of its inhabitants live below the poverty line, according to World Bank figures for 2024.


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From touchlines to Chamber: Walter Nyamilandu brings football spirit to Malawi Parliament

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-When Walter Nyamilandu rose to his feet in Malawi’s Parliament and broke into song and dance moments after the election of a new Speaker, it was more than a spontaneous celebration.

It was a statement.
For Malawians familiar with his long tenure as President of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM), the scene felt strikingly familiar.

The same man who once led chants from the terraces, celebrated victories with players, and rallied fans across the country had simply changed venues from the football pitch to the august House.

Nyamilandu, Malawi’s longest-serving FAM president, has now embarked on a new chapter as Member of Parliament for Nsanje South West.

Yet his trademark enthusiasm, passion, and ability to mobilise people remain firmly intact.

A Sporting Energy in a Political Arena
During the parliamentary sitting to elect a new Speaker, Nyamilandu’s jubilant display injected an unusual but refreshing energy into the chamber.

Leading fellow government MPs in spirited chants, he momentarily transformed Parliament into something resembling a football stadium after a decisive win.

The moment drew smiles across the House and quickly caught public attention, with many Malawians remarking on how naturally Nyamilandu blended his sporting spirit with political life.

For a man whose public identity was forged in football administration, the celebration symbolised continuity rather than disruption.

Speaking to Maravi Post Online on Saturday, Nyamilandu revealed that he has received widespread praise for his maiden parliamentary speech, which many described as level-headed, articulate, and well-structured.

He said the speech offered renewed hope to the people of Nsanje, a constituency he believes had lacked a strong and credible voice in Parliament for a long time.

“I wanted the people of Nsanje to feel represented and heard,” Nyamilandu said, adding that his early adaptation to parliamentary procedures had surprised even his critics.

Nyamilandu also reflected on the broader significance of his transition from corporate and sports leadership into politics.

A former Illovo executive and a graduate of Chancellor College (Chanco), he said his election has inspired members of the working class and intellectual community to reconsider politics as a viable path of service.

He observed that many educated Malawians shy away from politics due to its negative image and the perception that it involves “dirty” or degrading engagements.

“Some are not prepared to engage with poor communities or serve them because of pride and prestige,” he noted.

“I have defied those odds by entering unfamiliar territory and quickly adapting to both Parliament and constituency work.”

Beyond Football
Nyamilandu’s football legacy continues to shape perceptions of his leadership.

Sports journalist Antony Manda of Transworld described him as a strong youth motivator, pointing to tangible achievements during his FAM tenure.

Among these is the construction of a lodge at the Football Association of Malawi premises in Chiwembe an initiative Manda says continues to inspire young people involved in the sport.

That same leadership style energetic, inclusive, and people-centred now defines Nyamilandu’s approach to national governance.

Beyond celebration and symbolism, Nyamilandu has already demonstrated a willingness to speak boldly on national issues.

His recent public criticism of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) for what he termed a failure to take accountability for economic mismanagement has reinforced his image as an outspoken and fearless legislator.

As he settles into parliamentary life, many Malawians will be watching closely to see how the discipline, teamwork, and passion that characterised his football administration translate into legislative impact.

One thing, however, is already clear: whether on the touchlines of a football pitch or the floor of Parliament, Walter Nyamilandu remains a leader who wears his passion proudly and invites others to join the chant.


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Breaking New! MCP SG Chimwendo Banda granted bail

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The High Court in Lilongwe has granted bail to Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda.

The court delivered the ruling today through email to the lawyers

This comes after earlier reserving its decision following a bail hearing in an attempted murder case in which Chimwendo Banda is a suspect.

Details of the bail conditions are yet to be made public.

Chimwendo Banda’s legal team had argued that his continued detention was unlawful as there was no formal charge before the court, and also cited humanitarian grounds, noting that he is currently receiving medical treatment.

The State had indicated it would be ready to formally commit the matter in the weeks beginning January 5, 2026.

Source: Times360


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