By Suleman Chitera

National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its relationship with the media through initiatives aimed at enhancing journalists’ professional skills and understanding of business and financial reporting.

The commitment was made by NBM plc Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager, Akossa Mphepo Hiwa, at the conclusion of a business education visit to Botswana involving 10 journalists from various media houses in Malawi.

The educational tour, sponsored by the bank, provided journalists with an opportunity to gain first-hand exposure to Botswana’s business and financial landscape, including trading activities at the Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE) and operations of key institutions within the country’s financial sector.National Bank of Malawi Plc Posts Record K100 Billion Profit, Shareholders Call for Improved Mo626 Services

Speaking during the closing session in Gaberone, Hiwa said the media plays a critical role in informing the public and shaping discourse on economic and financial matters, making it important for journalists to have a deeper understanding of business environments and financial markets.

“We value the role that journalists play in promoting informed public discussion on economic and development issues. As a bank, we believe that investing in media capacity building contributes to improved business and financial reporting, which ultimately benefits the public and the economy,” she said.

Hiwa said the Botswana tour was part of the bank’s broader media engagement strategy and assured journalists that NBM plc would continue creating opportunities for professional growth.

“This is not a one-off initiative. We are committed to strengthening our partnership with the media through more training programmes, knowledge-sharing platforms and exposure visits that help journalists broaden their understanding of business, finance and investment matters,” she added.National Bank Brings Lifeline of Clean Water to Kalimwini Village

One of the participants, Chimwemwe Mangazi of Times Group, described the visit as insightful and enriching, saying it provided journalists with practical exposure that would enhance the quality of their reporting.

“This has been a valuable learning experience. Beyond seeing how the Botswana Stock Exchange operates, we have gained a better appreciation of how financial markets support economic growth and wealth creation,” said Mangazi.

He commended NBM plc for investing in the professional development of journalists and creating opportunities for exposure to regional business best practices.

“Such initiatives are important because they equip journalists with the knowledge and context needed to report accurately and effectively on business and financial issues. On behalf of my colleagues, I would like to thank NBM plc for this opportunity and for recognizing the role of the media in national development,” he said.National Bank of Malawi donates K5 million to support Microfinance Network’s Annual Conference

Apart from BSE, the journalists also visited the Cultural Village, The Three Dikgosi and Bahurutshe Culture Lodge to appreciate Botswana’s history and Culture.

The 10 journalists include Mangazi and Francis Namondwe from Times Group, Earlene Chimoyo of Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), Jane Kaonga of Capital Radio, Zodiak’s Christopher Sande, Lucy Kadzongwe from Mibawa, Malumbo Ngwira of MIJ FM, Benjamin Maona of Gazette Media, Timveni’s Richard Tiyesi, and Chikondi Chiyembekeza from Nation Publications Limited