A Journalist and owner of Choice Communication Solutions, Geoffrey Banda has stressed the need for the media practitioners to have side hustles in order to achieve economic transformation.

Speaking to journalists during the Blantyre Press Club Annual General Meeting in the commercial city yesterday, Banda said alternative sources of income are essential in life.

"I am one of you, I am a journalist and I worked with some media houses in the country but I decided to come up with my printing company and my life has improved significantly," said Banda.

He further stated that most journalists being young people, there is a need for them to embrace the spirit of hard work and focus, for them to meet their goals.

Apart from Banda, the BPC AGM was also attended by high profile people including Minister of Information, Dr Shadric Namalomba, Secretary for Ministry of Information, Harold Msusa, Macra Acting Director General, Mayamiko Nkoloma, Malawi Peace and Unity Commission Director General, Ali Phiri, Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA) spokesperson, Harriet Kachimanga and Federation of Disability Organizations in Malawi, Executive Director Simon Munde.

On his part, Minister of Information, Dr Namalomba, challenged the media to familiarize themselves with national and political party development blueprints, including Malawi 2063 and various party manifestos, to effectively contribute to the country’s transformation in the digital era.

He emphasized that such knowledge would enable the media to promote peace, fight injustice, and combat misinformation and disinformation.

While pledging media freedom in the country, the minister also underscored the crucial role of the media in fostering unity and national cohesion, particularly in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Vice General Secretary of the Blantyre Press Club, Yusuf Daisa, echoed the minister’s call, noting that the media is actively working to stay ahead in the fight against fake news and misinformation.

On its part, Malawi Peace and Unity Commission commended the media for its instrumental role in promoting peace during the 16 September elections, highlighting the sector’s contribution to sustaining democracy and social harmony.

Ali Phiri, Director General of the Commission said as much as some politicians promoted hate speech, the media demonstrated a high level of professionalism.

Taking her turn, MACODA spokesperson Harriet Kachimanga also implored the journalists to continue promoting the rights of persons with disabilities by understanding the policies and international protocols.