By Burnett Munthali

Senior Chief Kapeni has called on the Minister of Local Government, Richard Chimwendo Banda, to reconsider the financial support given to traditional leaders in Malawi. The chief expressed gratitude to the government for the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) initiative, which is benefiting the people of Blantyre. However, Kapeni has urged the government to modify its selection process for NEEF beneficiaries, emphasizing that chiefs should not be sidelined in the program.

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Speaking at Lunzu in Blantyre during a meeting organized by the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Chief Kapeni expressed concern that traditional leaders are often excluded from financial assistance programs. The chief appealed to the government to include chiefs in NEEF beneficiary groups so that they too can benefit from the loans provided under the initiative.

Kapeni’s remarks highlight the growing call for equitable distribution of government resources, ensuring that all sectors of society, including traditional leaders, can participate in development initiatives.