NICO Group condoles families of five artists lost in Ntcheu road tragedy

By Suleman Chitera

The NICO Group, which includes NBS Bank and Eris Properties, through its creative sector strategic partner, the Copyright Fund, has joined the nation in mourning five young musicians who died in a tragic road accident at Senzani in Ntcheu District on Friday, 26 December 2025.

The victims, Vincent Mkwinda, Raphael Chitsonga, Elivacy Muyaba, Wilfred Kapengule Jnr, and MacFarlane Banda, were members of Eli Njuchi’s Hive Band and were travelling to Lilongwe ahead of a scheduled performance when the accident occurred along the M1 Road.

In a condolence message issued through the Copyright Fund, the NICO Group said it fondly recalls its recent interaction with the Hive Band during its family day event earlier this year, where the artists performed with distinction and professionalism.

As part of its support, the Group has provided financial assistance of K1 million to each bereaved family to help with funeral arrangements.

Copyright Fund Administrator Dora Makwinja said the Group deeply shares the grief being experienced across the country following the loss.

“The NICO Group deeply shares the nation’s grief following the tragic and untimely loss of these talented young artists. Through the Copyright Fund, we are offering financial support to assist the families during this difficult time. May the souls of our departed artists rest in peace,” said Makwinja.

Beyond the corporate sector, national leadership has also expressed condolences, with State President Arthur Peter Mutharika and Second Vice President Enock Chihana conveying messages of sympathy to the bereaved families, joining Malawians in mourning the loss of young lives.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Malawi’s music industry, with artists and fans describing the loss as devastating to live music in the country.

The deceased musicians, drummer and sound engineer Raphael Chitsonga, guitarist MacFarlane Banda, road manager Vincent Mkwinda, pianist Wilfred Kapengule Jnr, and vocalist Elivacy Muyaba, were widely regarded as some of the most gifted instrumentalists of their generation.

Award-winning musician Lawi described the incident as a dark day for the industry, while international artist Onesimus said Malawi had lost giants whose contribution to music would be deeply missed.

Following the tragedy, Eli Njuchi cancelled a scheduled performance at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, while other artists, including Lulu, also called off shows as the music fraternity paused to grieve.

Local Govt minister, BT City Mayor to grace Muslim Awards

By Aubrey Thom Vakhani

The 2025 edition of the Muslim Awards is set to take place on Friday, December 19, 2025 at the Amaryllis Hotel in Blantyre, the organisers have confirmed.

Speaking in an interview, Bashir Amin, the event’s communications director, disclosed that preparations are at an advanced stage, and that this year’s event promises to be bigger and better, with newly introduced categories and that high-profile guests are expected to grace the occasion.

“The technical aspects of the event, programme ku and guest list all being finalised. But the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Ben Phiri, will be the guest of honour, while the Grand Mufti of Malawi, Sheikh Muhammad Uthman and the Mayor of the City of Blantyre, Isaac Jomo Osman are also expected to grace the occasion.

“Other notable guests include High Court Justice Jabbar Alide who is also our patron, Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Esther Jolobala, former Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Aisha Mambo Adams,” said Amin in an interview.

According to Amin, the audience will also be entertained with various performances that include Nasheeds (songs), poetry and drama acts.

“We are awarding a total of 24 categories this year, and awardees and nominees are in for a treat. We are grateful for the support we have received from our partners and sponsors, and we are confident that this year’s event will be one to remember,” he said.

Some of the partners who have partnered Muslim Awards include Liberty Immigration Services Ltd, Amaryllis Hotel, Domasi Kitchen, FDH Salama, Rainbow Paints, Kips Ice Cream Parlour & Restaurant, Unervesal Industries, NEYAC Lodge, Afri–Tech Motors, Ulendo Transport, Blantyre Lodge, Secutonic Technologies, Daado Investments, Television Islam (TVI), KadJem Studios, Home Made Delights, House of Hayaah, Limbe Muslim Jamat and Entertainers Promotion & Good Mountain Media Ltd.

Founded in 2022, the Muslim Awards is a national platform aimed at celebrating excellence, creativity, service and impact within the Muslim community across Malawi.

Those to be awarded will be from the categories of nasheeds [best upcoming nasheed artist, best nasheed—audio and best nasheed—video], drama [best actor, best actress and best comedian], poetry [best upcoming poet, best poet and best poem—audio and best poem—video] and media personality [best media personality—print, best media personality—TV, best media personality—online and media content creator].

MASO awards condemns Mahempe’s red carpet remarks, rules out stripping award

By Suleman Chitera

The Maso Awards Committee has sharply condemned remarks made by award winner Mahempe on the red carpet, describing comments directed at President Arthur Peter Mutharika as disrespectful and inappropriate, and a violation of the spirit of the awards.

In a strongly worded statement, the Committee said the remarks do not reflect the values, principles, or standards of the Maso Awards, which promote respect, responsibility, and positive representation within Malawi’s creative industry.

The Committee disclosed that it convened an extraordinary meeting to address the controversy, where two options were placed on the table: revoking Mahempe’s award or offering corrective guidance and structured support.

After deliberations, the Committee resolved not to withdraw the award, emphasizing that Maso Awards are determined through public voting and merit, and noting that Mahempe is a juvenile who has since issued an apology acknowledging his mistake.

Rather than punishment, the Committee opted for intervention and rehabilitation, announcing plans to provide psychosocial support, mentorship, and talent development programmes aimed at shaping Mahempe’s character while safeguarding his artistic future.

“This approach balances accountability with child protection,” the statement said, adding that the initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, through the Department of Child Affairs, alongside Mahempe’s management team.

The Committee warned, however, that public platforms carry responsibility and that artists—regardless of age—must understand the weight of their words, especially when addressing national leaders.

The Maso Awards has reiterated its commitment to nurturing talent without compromising national values, making it clear that respect remains non-negotiable in Malawi’s creative space.

Black Missionaries Set to Light Up Phalombe With a Rare Free Reggae Concert This Saturday

By Suleman Chitera

Phalombe is gearing up for a massive explosion of rhythm and culture as the legendary Black Missionaries Band makes its way to Horo Ground this Saturday for a free reggae concert—an experience many residents are calling a once-in-a-lifetime treat.

The highly anticipated event is part of the annual memorial celebration for the late business icon Lacton Mulli, the visionary founder of MBL Holdings. Every year, the Mulli family honours his legacy by giving back to the community—and this year’s celebration promises to be the biggest yet.

MBL Holdings Group Chairperson Leston Mulli says the day will be packed with generosity, joy, and good music.

“Every year we celebrate our father and founder of MBL Holdings. There will be free food, free drinks, and a show by the revered Black Missionaries,” said Mulli.

The Black Missionaries—loved across Malawi for their powerful stage presence and timeless reggae—are expected to draw thousands as they perform their classic hits and new favourites. For Phalombe, this is not just a concert; it’s a cultural moment, a celebration of unity, legacy, and gratitude.

Families, youths, and reggae lovers from across the district are expected to flock to Horo Ground for what promises to be an electric night of music and community spirit.

Gates open early, the vibes run all day, and the music will surely echo long after the event ends. Phalombe, get ready for a reggae storm!

Government Reaffirms Strong Partnership With Media as Linga FM Radio Launches in Kasungu

By Suleman Chitera

Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Shadric Namalomba, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to partnering with media houses across the country, stressing that a vibrant and collaborative media sector is essential for Malawi’s development journey.

The Minister made the remarks on Saturday during the colourful launch of Linga FM Radio held at Hannock Msokera Primary School ground in Kasungu, a ceremony that attracted traditional leaders, community members, and key stakeholders in the media industry.

Namalomba hailed the birth of Linga FM as a significant milestone, noting that the station is poised to become a powerful voice for communities living in hard-to-reach areas. He said the government counts on media institutions like Linga FM to support national efforts in agriculture, health, education, governance, and economic empowerment.

“Radio remains the most reliable source of information for the majority of Malawians. We expect Linga FM to bridge information gaps, promote citizen engagement, and uphold professionalism in all its broadcasts,” Namalomba said.

He further encouraged the station’s management to champion accuracy, professionalism, and ethical reporting, saying these principles safeguard the integrity of both the media and the nation.

Linga FM Radio founder and executive director, Alex Major, applauded the government for creating an environment that supports growth in the media sector. However, he appealed for consideration regarding the annual regulatory fees paid by radio stations, pointing out that current charges pose financial pressure on emerging broadcasters.

Major emphasized that easing the fees would help media houses strengthen programming, invest in modern equipment, and expand coverage—especially to rural communities that depend heavily on radio for vital information.

“Lowering the fees would empower more stations to operate sustainably and improve their services to the people of Malawi,” Major said.

The launch of Linga FM Radio marks a new chapter in Kasungu’s media landscape, promising enhanced access to information, increased community engagement, and strengthened collaboration with the government for national development.

Bushiri Spends Over K5.8 Billion to Support Malawians in 2025

By Suleman Chitera

Prophet Shepherd Bushiri, through the Goshen City Trust and Shepherd Bushiri Foundation, has reportedly spent over K5.8 billion this year alone to support Malawians in various sectors of life.

Among the key initiatives, Bushiri is said to have distributed maize worth K3 billion to families affected by hunger across the country. In the sporting sector, he donated K1.2 billion to Dedza Dynamos Football Club, which has since been rebranded as Goshen City Dedza Dynamos.

To promote youth talent in football, Bushiri launched the Shepherd Bushiri Foundation Football Talent Scout Project, committing K800 million to the programme which has already started operating in Mchinji.

In the creative industry, he allocated K500 million to Times TV to support the “Malawi Has Talent” competition, which is currently showcasing various talented individuals from across the country.

The beauty industry has also benefited, with nearly K100 million invested in organising the Miss Malawi pageant, where winners are expected to walk away with cash prizes of up to K30 million.

Bushiri further supported the film industry by donating over K100 million to the Film Association of Malawi, helping to establish their offices and fund activities such as a Film Festival. He also contributed K50 million towards the production and free YouTube release of the film “Welcome to Maula Prison.”

In the music sector, Bushiri supported several artists, including Driemo, by funding album projects and sponsoring major events such as Gwamba’s Grand Finale with contributions exceeding K100 million.

Prophet Bushiri, popularly known as “Major One,” is widely recognised for his involvement in both spiritual and social welfare activities, providing support aimed at improving the physical and spiritual lives of many Malawians.

Limpopo FM alleges theft of dogs was targeting Mutharika’s life

By Vincent Gunde

Limpopo FM online radio station has alleged that the theft of German dogs (police dogs) at the Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe was a deliberate plan to get rid of the incoming President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s life.

The radio said God visited Professor Mutharika to tell him of the decision not to occupy the State House and as such, he spared his life because the dogs acted as Police officers guarding the President and had he accepted to occupy the State House, he would have been dead by now.

It said President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has become the first and the last President who have ruled the country linked to theft of public resources at the State House saying the missing of dogs, has revealed more at the State House.

The radios Nkhanga zaona programme producer Comrade Ntanyiwa said a big television screen was removed on the state House walls, curtains, plates, spoons and other property saying all this, President Chakwera has to be questioned as part of police’s investigations.

The activist said Malawians have now seen for themselves that in President Chakwera there is no leadership and humanity and his quest to bounce back as the country’s president could have sold the country to the highest bidders.

He said the radios entail has established that the stolen dogs upon reaching the house of President Chakwera in Area 10 in Lilongwe were shifted to Kanengo at an unknown place saying the radio’s reporters are on the ground monitoring the movement of these dogs.

The activist said one of Chakwera’s personal bodyguard recognized by the name Ndelemani allegedly took away cups, plate, spoons and other items from State House to his house claiming that property looting that has taken place at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe was a well-coordinated theft.

He has assured the MCP that with the blunders made by President Chakwera and his lieutenants, the party must forget about entering into government anymore even if it changes leadership from Chakwera to someone else.

“With the coming in of President Chakwera, many people thought that MCP was for new blood and transformation, but the opposite has been seen, MCP is the same as that of Kamuzu Banda,” said Ntanyiwa.

He said MCP will never come back to rule this country whether one likes it or not, saying Professor Mutharika was chosen by the people of Malawi and Malawians themselves are the ones driving him for the country to move away from abstract poverty to prosperity.

Comrade Ntanyiwa has advised DPP leadership in the central region of Malawi to go to Kasungu Central constituency- Chitete area where an MCP councilor a Mr. Nkhoma is being reported to be registering all MCP members as beneficiaries of whatever government will be distributing to the people for free.

• 
  Kamphangala accuses MCP members of calling for Chimwendo’s release
• 
  Malawi at A crossroads: The K21 Trillion question that demands answers
• 
  China Unveils Next-Generation Strategic Missile Launcher with Breakthrough Mobility
• 
  2026 Audi Q3 Unveiled: Quattro All-Wheel Drive, Premium Interior and Advanced Digital Tech
• 
  Why is Malawian Sugar cheaper in Zambia than at home?

Game On, Malawi! Malawi’s’S First Ever Cyberexpox On The Horizon

By Patrick MKandawire

What does one get when Electronic sports (E-sports), cosplay, music and game developer showcase are blended together? CYBEREXPOX 2025, Malawi’s first ever cyber tech gaming and music convention in Blantyre at Alliance française de Blantyre on the 29, November.

The event is gearing up to be one of the most creative and innovative of the year, incorporating different forms of interactive media and activities into one, offering a dynamic platform that offers something for everyone. 

From video gamers battling it out in exhibition matches that will be held for the casual and competitive gamer, which will feature popular games like Tekken and EA FC to name a few, with players battling it out for bragging rights, this arena promises adrenaline rushed action.

For the cosplay enthusiast, the chance to show off their artistic costume designand dressed up as their favorite fictional characters from anime, comics, movies and games, adding that splash of color and artistic flair. As for the music lovers, the event isn’t just about tech, one of the performing artists El Shaddai is to light up the stage with some local Malawian rhythm and beats, creating an unforgettable fusion of music visuals and performance.

Besides all the activities that will be on offer, the event will feature a guest panelist, one of them is none other than E-sports athlete and content creator Gwenyth Matimbe aka “Gwyn Stacy”, elaborated on expectations that the convention is carrying, hoping it will give the right opportunity to people that will take part, especially the girls that might feel left out it being a male dominated space.

“girls will never know until they actually try as intimidating it may be, the community is small which makes it like a family and it is welcoming,” Gwenyth said during an interview. She is the current reigning E-sports Tekken Female Champion in Malawi.

As for the Game developer showcase, this might turn out to be the MVP of the whole expo. Giving an opportunity to developers to step into the spotlight and gain recognition, feedback and letting gamers play test their games.

one of the organizers of the expo, vice president of the E-sports Association of Malawi (ESAM), Robert Cheleuka,is urging video game developers to use this platform to their advantage and set themselves up strategically,

“Making a video game is not easy, it needs a lot of resources. this event can help video game developers attract investor that might have the required resources” Cheuluka stated.this will only be a huge leap forward in the Malawian tech community as well as the country, a video game for and made by Malawians.

Beyond the hype, CYBEREXPOX 2025 will be about the culmination of hobbies manifesting into inspiration and opportunity. It will be a platform that will connect, inform and imagine new possibilities, from careers in gaming, tech, design, innovation in software. This will be a beacon that Malawi is Leveling up and confidently walking into the global digital scene. 

Contact 

0888614699

Kelly Kay, Eli Njuchi, others to spice NBM plc family day gig in LL

By Suleman Chitera

Music, laughter, and splendour will fill Peak Gardens in Lilongwe on Sunday as top local artists Kelly Kay, Eli Njuchi, Praise Umali, Fada Moti, and Temwa take the stage for a day packed with entertainment, fun, and relaxation.

The performances will headline National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc’s Family Day, a celebration designed to appreciate employees, customers, and stakeholders while promoting work-life balance and community engagement.

The event, to be hosted by renowned MBC Radio 2 DJ, Joy Nathu, is scheduled to run from 6 am to 5 pm and promises a vibrant mix of live music, cultural showcases, and wellness activities for all ages.

NBM plc Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager, Akossa Hiwa, said the Family Day underscores the Bank’s appreciation of its people and its commitment to shared growth.

“We are taking time to celebrate the people behind our success, our employees, their families, and our customers. This event reflects our dedication to work-life balance and the importance of building lasting relationships. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate Mo626, which has transformed digital banking in Malawi by offering secure and convenient financial solutions,” said Hiwa.

Apart from the music performances, the event will also feature yoga sessions, financial literacy games for children, and a relaxation lounge for families to unwind.

“NBM plc has always valued its people and the communities it serves. This Family Day is about deepening that connection and celebrating success together,” said Hiwa.

Excitement has already spread among customers following the Bank’s announcement on its social media pages.

One enthusiastic follower, Theressa Mwamande, said she is eager to attend and praised NBM plc for going beyond banking.

“I am really excited about this Family Day. It’s a wonderful idea that shows NBM plc cares about its customers beyond banking. It will be a great chance to relax, meet others, and enjoy quality time with family,” said Mwamande.

Adding to the excitement, Umali confirmed his performance through his page, writing: “Live with my band this coming Sunday, 16 pa Mo Family Day at Peak with National Bank of Malawi plc.”

The event will also feature raffle draws, three-legged and sack races, karaoke sessions, and fun categories such as Best Dressed Family and Most Enthusiastic Team.

Children will enjoy bouncy castles, face painting, and arts and crafts, ensuring fun for everyone

Mai Halima Girls Records 100% Pass Rate in 2025 MSCE Exams

By Suleman Chitera

Mai Halima Girls Secondary School has set a new benchmark in education excellence after all its 50 students who sat for the 2025 Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations passed with flying colors.

According to the school’s deputy teacher, Grace M’bweza, the top-performing student scored an impressive 16 points, a result she described as a reflection of hard work, discipline, and unity within the school.

“This success is the result of our teachers’ dedication, strong teamwork between staff and learners, and regular mock exams that adequately prepared students for the national examinations,” said M’bweza in an interview.

Kamlepo Kalua sets record straight on Smartmatic machines

She further explained that the school provides continuous support to both teachers and learners, creating a positive learning environment.

The outstanding results are expected to boost the number of Mai Halima Girls’ students selected to prestigious national secondary schools this year.

With such consistent achievements, the school is proving to be one of Malawi’s rising centers of academic excellence, inspiring many girls across the country to aim higher in their education.