By Suleman Chitera

People’s Party (PP) President Joyce Banda has promised sweeping reforms in education, agriculture, and youth empowerment should she return to government after the September 16 elections.

Speaking during a vibrant campaign rally in Rumphi District on Sunday, Banda vowed to make secondary school education free for all Malawians, citing the need to break barriers that hinder young people’s academic growth.

“I believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, regardless of their family’s income. If I am given the mandate to serve again, secondary education will be free,” said Banda, drawing loud applause from the crowd.

The former president highlighted her long-standing commitment to supporting education, revealing that every year she personally sponsors students to various institutions. This year alone, she has facilitated scholarships for 31 students to study for master’s degrees in the United States.

Banda’s development vision also includes agricultural transformation. She pledged to introduce policies that will enable farmers to harvest twice a year, distribute free cows to boost livestock farming, provide free maize to food-insecure households, and ensure fair market prices for farm produce.

For the youth, Banda promised to distribute free bicycles to improve mobility and access to opportunities in rural areas.

Joining her on the campaign trail, former Vice President Khumbo Kachali urged Rumphi residents to rally behind Banda. He emphasized that electing her would be the first step towards addressing persistent challenges facing the district and the nation at large.

With her promises resonating strongly among rural communities, Banda’s campaign is positioning itself as a movement of economic empowerment, social justice, and inclusive growth ahead of the crucial polls.