By Burnett Munthali
After sending a questionnaire to Honorable Moses Kunkuyu, Malawi’s Minister of Information and Digitalization, via WhatsApp on October 7, 2024, we are still awaiting a response, marking eight days of silence. This delay comes despite a previous communication from the minister acknowledging receipt of our message and explaining that he had been traveling when our initial questionnaire was sent.
In a text response received shortly after our initial inquiry, Minister Kunkuyu stated: “I indeed opened this text but the time you sent this, I was boarding a flight traveling, and when I landed, this got buried in a traffic of texts on a queue before I could even address it and thereafter I forgot; which is very normal.” He also highlighted that he values the relationship with the media and has always endeavored to respond to questions, emphasizing the importance of professionalism in communication.
The minister further criticized the decision to publish an article regarding his delayed response, asserting it was unfair to rush into a negative portrayal without further attempts to engage him through a call. He expressed concern that such actions could affect the working relationship between his office and the media, which he described as built on mutual respect and professionalism.
The unanswered questionnaire was designed to delve into critical issues surrounding the government’s position on Sheikh Ahmed Al Qassimi’s recent statement, in which he denied any business ties to Malawi. This controversy has sparked significant public interest and concern regarding government accountability, transparency, and the potential implications for Malawi’s governance and international relations.
The questions raised in the questionnaire focus on various aspects, including:
1) Reaction to Sheikh Al Qassimi’s Statement: Seeking to understand the minister’s immediate response and what it suggests about the government’s due diligence when entering contracts with international partners.
2) Government Accountability: Drawing comparisons with past corruption scandals, like Cashgate, and assessing the current administration’s transparency and accountability.
3) Role of Oversight Institutions: Addressing the perceived silence of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and its implications for public trust.
4) Public Scrutiny: Exploring the role of media and civil society in promoting accountability and transparency.
5) Impact on Governance and International Relations: Understanding the potential ramifications for Malawi’s international reputation and economic stability.
The prolonged silence from the Minister’s office raises concerns about accountability and transparency, especially in a political environment that demands prompt responses to public queries. Given the gravity of the issues surrounding Sheikh Ahmed Al Qassimi’s statement, timely communication from government officials is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that citizens are informed about matters that could significantly impact governance and the economy.
Furthermore, the lack of response may suggest deeper issues within the government regarding engagement with the media and responsiveness to public sentiment. In a democracy, it is essential for government officials to prioritize communication with citizens and the media, as this fosters an environment of transparency and accountability.
As we await a response from Minister Kunkuyu, it is imperative for the government to recognize the importance of addressing public concerns and maintaining an open line of communication with the media. The delay in responding to our questionnaire not only hinders the flow of information but also impacts public perception of the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
In the coming days, we hope to receive the minister’s insights on the pressing issues surrounding Sheikh Ahmed Al Qassimi’s statement and the government’s stance on ensuring responsible governance in Malawi. Until then, the conversation on accountability and transparency within the administration continues, highlighting the critical need for responsive leadership in times of public scrutiny.
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.
