By Burnett Munthali

In a recent political rally held at Lunzu in Blantyre, A Brown Mpinganjira, a prominent member of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), raised significant concerns regarding the leadership of President Lazarus Chakwera, particularly in the context of the ongoing food insecurity crisis affecting the nation. Mpinganjira asserted that the current state of affairs aligns with biblical prophecies about famine, suggesting that the underlying issues plaguing Malawi are unlikely to change under Chakwera’s administration.

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Mpinganjira stated, “The leader of this country cannot change what God has already declared regarding hunger,” underscoring a belief that the challenges are not merely political but also deeply spiritual. He emphasized the importance of unity and communal support, urging citizens to collaborate and help one another during these difficult times. His call for collective action reflects an understanding that overcoming the food crisis requires concerted efforts from all sectors of society.

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The rally served as a vital platform for the MCP to reaffirm its commitment to addressing pressing issues such as food insecurity, which has been exacerbated by rising costs of living and economic challenges. Mpinganjira’s message resonated with attendees, many of whom are grappling with the realities of poverty and hunger. His emphasis on solidarity and community engagement is crucial as the party seeks to connect with the electorate in anticipation of the 2025 elections.

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As the electoral season approaches, Mpinganjira’s comments highlight the critical need for effective governance and leadership that responds to the needs of the people. The response from the public to the current administration’s handling of these challenges will likely influence voter sentiment significantly in the upcoming elections.

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The sentiments expressed at the Lunzu rally reflect broader concerns within Malawi about the direction of the country. The MCP is positioning itself as a viable alternative, promising to address fundamental challenges like food security and economic stability through responsible leadership.

Youth empowerment in action: Judith Msusa applauds success of Business Acceleration for Youth Project By Burnett Munthali, November The Director of Youth in the Ministry of Youth, Judith Msusa, has expressed her satisfaction with the impact of the Business Acceleration for Youth (BAY) project, describing it as a transformative initiative for empowering Malawian youth economically. Msusa commended the project during a visit to some grant beneficiaries who have successfully turned their ventures into thriving enterprises. Speaking during her visit, Msusa lauded the program for equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to enhance their livelihoods. "The government is impressed with the youth who, through this initiative, have been able to increase their revenue streams. This not only enables them to live decent lives but also positions them as job creators for their peers," she said. Msusa emphasized the project's role in fostering a generation of self-reliant, innovative, and economically active young people. Adding to Msusa's sentiments, David Slane, Chief of Party for the project, expressed his own delight at the progress made. "It’s rewarding to see these young individuals demonstrating tangible successes as a result of this support. They are living proof of what is possible when young people are given the right opportunities and resources," said Slane. The three-year BAY project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is being implemented by the Alliance of Biodiversity International and the Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT). Focused on the districts of Zomba, Balaka, Chiradzulu, Chikwawa, Machinga, and Mangochi, the project aims to nurture the entrepreneurial spirit among youth by providing grants, mentorship, and technical assistance. During the visit, several beneficiaries shared their inspiring stories of transformation. One of them, a poultry farmer from Mangochi, recounted how the project’s financial and technical support helped her scale her business, enabling her to employ two additional workers. Another young entrepreneur in Zomba, specializing in agro-processing, highlighted how mentorship from the project helped him navigate market challenges and significantly increase his revenue. These testimonials reflect the project's profound impact on communities. Beyond financial gains, the BAY initiative is helping youth build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, all of which are critical for sustaining long-term economic growth. As Malawi grapples with high unemployment rates among the youth, the BAY project stands out as a beacon of hope. With continued support from USAID and partners, the initiative could serve as a model for youth empowerment not only in Malawi but across the region. Msusa’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting programs that align with its broader vision of reducing poverty and unemployment. "The youth are the backbone of our nation," Msusa concluded. "Projects like BAY remind us of their untapped potential and the immense possibilities that emerge when we invest in them strategically." The success of the BAY project serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between government, development partners, and the private sector in addressing pressing societal challenges.