NATIONAL NEWS | Zodiak Malawi OnlineZodiak Broadcasting Station. Zikachitika Mumvera kwa Ife. We are here to provide you with Breaking news, sport, TV and radio. To Educate, Inform and to Entertain you wherever you are.https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw-22024-03-28T16:27:54+00:00Joomla! - Open Source Content ManagementThyolo DC Calls for Support on Children's Parliament2023-11-28T14:54:03+00:002023-11-28T14:54:03+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/66-news-in-southern-region/6914-thyolo-dc-calls-for-support-on-children-s-parliamentBeston Lukanyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/5422fab0c3603d22b77d47bb69139c4c_XL.jpg" alt="Kuphanga - the parliament can address chidren's challenges" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p><strong>The Thyolo District Council says it is mobilizing partners to initiate a children's parliament, believing it would help to address growing child-related abuses.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p>The District Commissioner, Hudson Kuphanga, says currently the social welfare office is on the ground approaching potential donors to support the initiative, which would enable the youth to showcase their skills and voice out their concerns for actions.</p>
<p>Kuphanga has since implored stakeholders to financially support the intervention in a quest to also tackle the district's prevailing issues of potable water, early marriages, and child labor.</p>
<p>"Thyolo has never had one of its kind and if we can manage to have one, the young people will showcase their skills and future initiatives for their well-being,” he said.</p>
<p>Thyolo district principal social welfare officer, Fedda M'bwana, has reported that from January to September 2023, children faced 1,224 violent cases that included physical abuse, defilements, child marriages, child trafficking, child labor, and psychological torture.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, a child rights advocate, Lucky Mbewe says the children's parliament has been effective in addressing challenges affecting the children and the youth in the country.</p>
<p>"It offers the opportunity to raise the voices of the children and young people; it gives them space to communicate issues that affect them, be it social-economic and cultural. We have seen the children coming together deliberating issues that inform the main National Assembly for policy direction and considerations," Mbewe said.</p>
<p>Neno, Mwanza, Dowa, Lilongwe and Mzimba are some of the districts that conduct children's parliament.</p></div><div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/5422fab0c3603d22b77d47bb69139c4c_XL.jpg" alt="Kuphanga - the parliament can address chidren's challenges" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p><strong>The Thyolo District Council says it is mobilizing partners to initiate a children's parliament, believing it would help to address growing child-related abuses.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p>The District Commissioner, Hudson Kuphanga, says currently the social welfare office is on the ground approaching potential donors to support the initiative, which would enable the youth to showcase their skills and voice out their concerns for actions.</p>
<p>Kuphanga has since implored stakeholders to financially support the intervention in a quest to also tackle the district's prevailing issues of potable water, early marriages, and child labor.</p>
<p>"Thyolo has never had one of its kind and if we can manage to have one, the young people will showcase their skills and future initiatives for their well-being,” he said.</p>
<p>Thyolo district principal social welfare officer, Fedda M'bwana, has reported that from January to September 2023, children faced 1,224 violent cases that included physical abuse, defilements, child marriages, child trafficking, child labor, and psychological torture.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, a child rights advocate, Lucky Mbewe says the children's parliament has been effective in addressing challenges affecting the children and the youth in the country.</p>
<p>"It offers the opportunity to raise the voices of the children and young people; it gives them space to communicate issues that affect them, be it social-economic and cultural. We have seen the children coming together deliberating issues that inform the main National Assembly for policy direction and considerations," Mbewe said.</p>
<p>Neno, Mwanza, Dowa, Lilongwe and Mzimba are some of the districts that conduct children's parliament.</p></div>We Are Seasonal Islanders - GVH Malamia2023-11-28T14:47:39+00:002023-11-28T14:47:39+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/66-news-in-southern-region/6913-we-are-seasonal-islanders-gvh-malamiaRaphael Mlozoanyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/f4bbebcbdcc4b70522073388c7b5f8e3_XL.jpg" alt="GVH Malamia" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p><strong>Some village heads in the area of Traditional Authority Makanjira in Mangochi district have asked government to fast track delivery of both relief food and Affordable farm inputs, before the rains starts when roads are still passable.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p>Senior Group Village headman (SGVH) Malamia who commands 13 village heads made the call Sunday when member of Parliament for the area, Mangochi north constituency, Benedicto Chambo, conducted a development rally to to update people on developmental project in the area.</p>
<p>According to SGVH Malamia, the area is yet to receive all the allocated MVAC response, AIP and with the metrological department rainfall forecast indicating rains might start any day, they are now fearing they might not benefit.</p>
<p>"We are like Seasonal Islanders here. When rains start, we are disconnected to the world, as roads are not passable," said Malamia.</p>
<p>He said government should make sure that all the commodities have been delivered to avoid hunger this year and next year.</p>
<p>However, GVH Malamia said people in the border villages are thankful to government on the news that now money for constructing the Mangochi-Makanjira road have been secured.</p>
<p>"We now have hope that the current status in no longer permanent, because we have examples of developments that are being implemented here, like Makanjira hospital, rural electrification projects and others, which were just promised by other governments," said Malamia.</p>
<p>Chambo, a Democratic Progressive Party parliamentarian who unpacked the projects being implemented in the area and those in pipeline, advised people to support development not politics.</p>
<p>"We need to develop this area, and this government is doing what we have been looking for. Let's give them support as it's not for political gains, but development," said Chambo.</p>
<p>He also told them not to get worried as their concerns are valid and government is already aware as he is in touch with relevant authorities.</p>
<p>"It's true that any delays to deliver food, AIP will affect them and that the number of beneficiaries is small, these are things that we are talking to authorities," said Chambo.</p>
<p>Recently the government of Saudi Arabia Ave Malawi $20 million for the construction of the Mangochi-Makanjira road where the parliamentarian and Senior Chief Makanjira accompanied president Lazarus Chakwera to the rainbow nation.</p></div><div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/f4bbebcbdcc4b70522073388c7b5f8e3_XL.jpg" alt="GVH Malamia" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p><strong>Some village heads in the area of Traditional Authority Makanjira in Mangochi district have asked government to fast track delivery of both relief food and Affordable farm inputs, before the rains starts when roads are still passable.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p>Senior Group Village headman (SGVH) Malamia who commands 13 village heads made the call Sunday when member of Parliament for the area, Mangochi north constituency, Benedicto Chambo, conducted a development rally to to update people on developmental project in the area.</p>
<p>According to SGVH Malamia, the area is yet to receive all the allocated MVAC response, AIP and with the metrological department rainfall forecast indicating rains might start any day, they are now fearing they might not benefit.</p>
<p>"We are like Seasonal Islanders here. When rains start, we are disconnected to the world, as roads are not passable," said Malamia.</p>
<p>He said government should make sure that all the commodities have been delivered to avoid hunger this year and next year.</p>
<p>However, GVH Malamia said people in the border villages are thankful to government on the news that now money for constructing the Mangochi-Makanjira road have been secured.</p>
<p>"We now have hope that the current status in no longer permanent, because we have examples of developments that are being implemented here, like Makanjira hospital, rural electrification projects and others, which were just promised by other governments," said Malamia.</p>
<p>Chambo, a Democratic Progressive Party parliamentarian who unpacked the projects being implemented in the area and those in pipeline, advised people to support development not politics.</p>
<p>"We need to develop this area, and this government is doing what we have been looking for. Let's give them support as it's not for political gains, but development," said Chambo.</p>
<p>He also told them not to get worried as their concerns are valid and government is already aware as he is in touch with relevant authorities.</p>
<p>"It's true that any delays to deliver food, AIP will affect them and that the number of beneficiaries is small, these are things that we are talking to authorities," said Chambo.</p>
<p>Recently the government of Saudi Arabia Ave Malawi $20 million for the construction of the Mangochi-Makanjira road where the parliamentarian and Senior Chief Makanjira accompanied president Lazarus Chakwera to the rainbow nation.</p></div>Education Ministry Challenges Youths To Champion Digital Transformation Agenda2023-11-27T14:06:25+00:002023-11-27T14:06:25+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/65-news-in-central-region/6912-education-ministry-challenges-youths-to-champion-digital-transformation-agendaCassim Aubinyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/b4d5a674fef05c43ec29cbda5cb2ab5d_XL.jpg" alt="Education Ministry Challenges Youths To Champion Digital Transformation Agenda" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p><strong>The ministry of education has challenged young people undergoing various computer and ICT skills improvement trainings to ensure they are establishing their own companies that would help the country achieve the much touted digital transformation agenda.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p>Director of science, technology and Innovation in the ministry Dr. Chomora Mikeka says since most existing industries in Malawi are yet to fully migrate to digital, those acquiring new computer skills should begin to fill the gap.</p>
<p>He was speaking Friday in Lilongwe at the closing of the week long computer and ICT skills training for 50 university students from across the country under the Seed for the future programme by China’s Huawei Technologies.</p>
<p>He said young people with computer and ICT skills should not only wait to be employed by others but use the skills to establish their own firms saying this will also contribute to the achievement of the digital transformation agenda.</p>
<p>“We are graduating a cadre of young people who each one of them can have a spin of brand new industry, we want these ones to roll out companies, some have already done it, government simplified business registration,” said Mikeka.</p>
<p>He said this will not only help to create jobs for themselves and others but also help the country achieve the digital transformation agenda.</p>
<p>He has since urged institutions to emulate the gesture demonstrated by Huawei Technologies by helping in investing in young people to improve their digital skills.</p>
<p>Rejoice Banda is a fourth year student from the University of Malawi who participated in the training which she said has broadened her perspective of artificial intelligence which was part of the training areas.</p>
<p>“Its very beneficial to my career as well as my school because it has added on to the knowledge base that I have, I’ve also come to understand that working in a team is really important,” said Banda.</p>
<p>The annual seed for the future training program has so far benefited about 200 Malawian students who have been imparted with computer and ICT skills as well as learning the Chinese culture according to Huawei Technologies Director in Malawi Gomez Gu.</p></div><div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/b4d5a674fef05c43ec29cbda5cb2ab5d_XL.jpg" alt="Education Ministry Challenges Youths To Champion Digital Transformation Agenda" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p><strong>The ministry of education has challenged young people undergoing various computer and ICT skills improvement trainings to ensure they are establishing their own companies that would help the country achieve the much touted digital transformation agenda.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p>Director of science, technology and Innovation in the ministry Dr. Chomora Mikeka says since most existing industries in Malawi are yet to fully migrate to digital, those acquiring new computer skills should begin to fill the gap.</p>
<p>He was speaking Friday in Lilongwe at the closing of the week long computer and ICT skills training for 50 university students from across the country under the Seed for the future programme by China’s Huawei Technologies.</p>
<p>He said young people with computer and ICT skills should not only wait to be employed by others but use the skills to establish their own firms saying this will also contribute to the achievement of the digital transformation agenda.</p>
<p>“We are graduating a cadre of young people who each one of them can have a spin of brand new industry, we want these ones to roll out companies, some have already done it, government simplified business registration,” said Mikeka.</p>
<p>He said this will not only help to create jobs for themselves and others but also help the country achieve the digital transformation agenda.</p>
<p>He has since urged institutions to emulate the gesture demonstrated by Huawei Technologies by helping in investing in young people to improve their digital skills.</p>
<p>Rejoice Banda is a fourth year student from the University of Malawi who participated in the training which she said has broadened her perspective of artificial intelligence which was part of the training areas.</p>
<p>“Its very beneficial to my career as well as my school because it has added on to the knowledge base that I have, I’ve also come to understand that working in a team is really important,” said Banda.</p>
<p>The annual seed for the future training program has so far benefited about 200 Malawian students who have been imparted with computer and ICT skills as well as learning the Chinese culture according to Huawei Technologies Director in Malawi Gomez Gu.</p></div>MACOHA Tips Humanitarian Actors on Disaster Response Targeting Persons with Disabilities2023-11-27T13:06:05+00:002023-11-27T13:06:05+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/64-news-in-northern-region/6911-macoha-tips-humanitarian-actors-on-disaster-response-targeting-persons-with-disabilitiesAlfred Gutanyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/33202be39b7e1e522952d330739a4f4d_XL.jpg" alt="Kachimanga" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The Malawi Council for the Handicapped (MACOHA) has lamented that persons with disabilities in the country struggled to access humanitarian support during Cyclone Freddy.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="text-align: justify;">MACOHA Public Relations Officer, Harriet Kachimanga, claims the interventions were not specifically targeting persons with disabilities.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“According to the government assessment report, over 200, 000 persons with disabilities were affected by Cyclone Freddy and in Nsanje district over 5000 persons with disabilities were affected.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“We are grateful for the support that was rendered by different humanitarian actors.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“But then, this support was not specifically targeting persons with disabilities; there were so many issues that needed to be addressed,” explained Kachimanga.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She said for instance, “persons with disabilities who were in camps were not reached out and also those in various communities you know those with various physical disabilities they need to move to strategic places put in place for them to access different humanitarian support,” said Kachimanga</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She underscored the need to employ deliberate efforts which would enable persons with disabilities to access humanitarian support with ease, they were left out because these deliberate efforts were not there so it has been a great concern.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Going forward it is a plea to all humanitarian actors whenever they are bringing different kinds of assistance in our communities.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“There are strategic places where they go and receive various assistance but then persons with disabilities cannot get to those places maybe because the terrain has been dismantled due to Cyclones.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“They cannot go there using wheelchairs or they cannot walk to those places so we need to go directly into those places to meet them and assist them.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The MACOHA PRO further decried alleged failure by persons with disabilities to access messages on early warning signs. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She said they are facing challenges depending on their disabilities citing those with hearing impairments. There are some messages which are in audio format but then they cannot hear those messages put across to them.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Similarly, those with visual impairments there are some messages which are written but then persons with visual impairments cannot access them because they are not in braille format or in large print for them to be accessible.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“So, these are the issues that are of concern for MACOHA and for all persons with disabilities.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“When delivering messages on disasters make sure that they are in accessible formats, probably in braille or in large prints, in sign languages in all those formats that persons with disabilities should be able to access.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">MACOHA was in Nsanje district on Friday for an Open Day as part of its activities under a flag week.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The organization is currently mobilizing resources which according to Kachimanga would go towards assisting persons with disabilities who were affected by Cyclone Freddy, who require special care.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Gauti Rambiki, who is visually impaired, echoed Kachimanga’s sentiments.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Access to humanitarian support has been an issue of concern. We are usually sidelined. May those responsible please act on these issues.” Lamented Rambiki.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">He added, “We also need the early warning signs messages in accessible formats.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">MACOHA has been observing a flag week by creating awareness on its activities, services and programmes and raising funds which will be invested towards uplifting the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the country.</p></div><div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/33202be39b7e1e522952d330739a4f4d_XL.jpg" alt="Kachimanga" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The Malawi Council for the Handicapped (MACOHA) has lamented that persons with disabilities in the country struggled to access humanitarian support during Cyclone Freddy.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="text-align: justify;">MACOHA Public Relations Officer, Harriet Kachimanga, claims the interventions were not specifically targeting persons with disabilities.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“According to the government assessment report, over 200, 000 persons with disabilities were affected by Cyclone Freddy and in Nsanje district over 5000 persons with disabilities were affected.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“We are grateful for the support that was rendered by different humanitarian actors.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“But then, this support was not specifically targeting persons with disabilities; there were so many issues that needed to be addressed,” explained Kachimanga.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She said for instance, “persons with disabilities who were in camps were not reached out and also those in various communities you know those with various physical disabilities they need to move to strategic places put in place for them to access different humanitarian support,” said Kachimanga</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She underscored the need to employ deliberate efforts which would enable persons with disabilities to access humanitarian support with ease, they were left out because these deliberate efforts were not there so it has been a great concern.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Going forward it is a plea to all humanitarian actors whenever they are bringing different kinds of assistance in our communities.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“There are strategic places where they go and receive various assistance but then persons with disabilities cannot get to those places maybe because the terrain has been dismantled due to Cyclones.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“They cannot go there using wheelchairs or they cannot walk to those places so we need to go directly into those places to meet them and assist them.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The MACOHA PRO further decried alleged failure by persons with disabilities to access messages on early warning signs. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She said they are facing challenges depending on their disabilities citing those with hearing impairments. There are some messages which are in audio format but then they cannot hear those messages put across to them.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Similarly, those with visual impairments there are some messages which are written but then persons with visual impairments cannot access them because they are not in braille format or in large print for them to be accessible.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“So, these are the issues that are of concern for MACOHA and for all persons with disabilities.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“When delivering messages on disasters make sure that they are in accessible formats, probably in braille or in large prints, in sign languages in all those formats that persons with disabilities should be able to access.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">MACOHA was in Nsanje district on Friday for an Open Day as part of its activities under a flag week.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The organization is currently mobilizing resources which according to Kachimanga would go towards assisting persons with disabilities who were affected by Cyclone Freddy, who require special care.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Gauti Rambiki, who is visually impaired, echoed Kachimanga’s sentiments.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Access to humanitarian support has been an issue of concern. We are usually sidelined. May those responsible please act on these issues.” Lamented Rambiki.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">He added, “We also need the early warning signs messages in accessible formats.”</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">MACOHA has been observing a flag week by creating awareness on its activities, services and programmes and raising funds which will be invested towards uplifting the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in the country.</p></div>Destiny College Malawi Joins ICY to Raise Awareness On SDGs2023-11-26T08:58:44+00:002023-11-26T08:58:44+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/66-news-in-southern-region/6910-destiny-college-malawi-joins-icy-to-raise-awareness-on-sdgsMoses Masiyenyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/6feaaea33484ec6d4acbf09c66800fb3_XL.jpg" alt=" 135 students graduated with diplomas in leadership and development" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><div dir="auto"><strong><strong>Principal for Destiny college of leadership and development Bishop Andrew Mankhanamba says they have joined the International Christian Youth (ICY) and Africa for sustainable development Goals (SDGs), in raising awareness on SDGs and how to achieve the development goals. </strong></strong></div><div class="K2FeedFullText"></div>
<div dir="auto">Bishop Mankhanamba said at Balaka stadium on Saturday, when 135 students graduated with diplomas in leadership and development. </div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
<div dir="auto">"People are still not aware of what constitutes the SDGs, and we thought of starting with our students who are going out there, to take that role. It is only through awareness and asking everyone to take part, for Malawi to achieve these goals," said Bishop Mankhanamba. </div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
<div dir="auto">
<div dir="auto">Dr. Joe Bonga, director for International Christian Youth in Africa, also chief executive for Africa for SDGs, commended Destiny college for taking a role towards raising awareness. </div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
<div dir="auto">He said:- "This is a welcome development and I urge the graduates to use the skills attained, to assist efforts towards meeting sustainable development Goals. Every person need to take action if we are to achieve these important development goals."</div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
</div>
<div dir="auto">One of the graduates Yvonne Mtalulamusi, said they have attained skills that will help them create job opportunities, rather than waiting for employment. </div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
<div dir="auto">Apart from offering leadership and development skills, Destiny college Malawi has announced plans to introduce vocational skills training in partnership with Technical Entrepreneur and Vocational Training Authority (TEVETA).</div>
<div dir="auto"> </div></div><div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/6feaaea33484ec6d4acbf09c66800fb3_XL.jpg" alt=" 135 students graduated with diplomas in leadership and development" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><div dir="auto"><strong><strong>Principal for Destiny college of leadership and development Bishop Andrew Mankhanamba says they have joined the International Christian Youth (ICY) and Africa for sustainable development Goals (SDGs), in raising awareness on SDGs and how to achieve the development goals. </strong></strong></div><div class="K2FeedFullText"></div>
<div dir="auto">Bishop Mankhanamba said at Balaka stadium on Saturday, when 135 students graduated with diplomas in leadership and development. </div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
<div dir="auto">"People are still not aware of what constitutes the SDGs, and we thought of starting with our students who are going out there, to take that role. It is only through awareness and asking everyone to take part, for Malawi to achieve these goals," said Bishop Mankhanamba. </div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
<div dir="auto">
<div dir="auto">Dr. Joe Bonga, director for International Christian Youth in Africa, also chief executive for Africa for SDGs, commended Destiny college for taking a role towards raising awareness. </div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
<div dir="auto">He said:- "This is a welcome development and I urge the graduates to use the skills attained, to assist efforts towards meeting sustainable development Goals. Every person need to take action if we are to achieve these important development goals."</div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
</div>
<div dir="auto">One of the graduates Yvonne Mtalulamusi, said they have attained skills that will help them create job opportunities, rather than waiting for employment. </div>
<div dir="auto"> </div>
<div dir="auto">Apart from offering leadership and development skills, Destiny college Malawi has announced plans to introduce vocational skills training in partnership with Technical Entrepreneur and Vocational Training Authority (TEVETA).</div>
<div dir="auto"> </div></div>Jehovah's Witnesses Share Messages of Hope at Continental Hockey Tourney2023-11-25T08:51:42+00:002023-11-25T08:51:42+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/66-news-in-southern-region/6909-jehovah-s-witnesses-share-messages-of-hope-at-continental-hockey-tourneyOnline Journalistnyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/356d0906a24ee61467368201060f8c6f_XL.jpg" alt=" The Bible-based publications cover timely topics such as family happiness" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Blantyre – November 25: Hundreds of people will converge at the National Hockey Stadium for the final day of the African Cup for Club Champions but amidst all the big-game festivities will be modest Bible-based displays. </strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Jehovah’s Witnesses from all over Blantyre have organized modest Bible-based displays around one of the most anticipated African hockey games of the year. Spectators will watch the final showdown of the men’s and women’s tournament inside the stadium, but just a few meters away a number of volunteers will be standing next to mobile literature carts. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Their game plan: offer a warm smile, a listening ear, and answers from the Scriptures to anyone who asks life’s big questions about existence, hope for dead loved ones, and the future. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;"> Amos Chirwa, local spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses, noted that many people at large sporting events are searching for something that will bring them lasting peace and happiness. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">“People come to these events because they want a break from the pressures of daily living. They come to have fun and to forget about their troubles for a while,” said Chirwa.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">We’re here to let them know that joy and peace doesn’t have to be just one day or even just a few days out of the year,” he said. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Anyone is welcome to take free literature from the carts. The Bible-based publications cover timely topics such as family happiness and how to find success and will be offered in selected languages. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Ikweanji Jackson, a volunteer from Blantyre plans to have friendly conversations with those who stop by. Smartphone in hand, he’s also ready to show people <a href="http://jw.org/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://jw.org&source=gmail&ust=1701073815075000&usg=AOvVaw1WErTiIcirAeBV7SiulQ_m">jw.org</a>, the organization’s official website, where they can easily access positive content in more than 1,070 languages. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">“People need positivity nowadays,” said Ikweanji. “If I can make just one person smile while I’m volunteering, then I consider that a big win for the day.” </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Jehovah’s Witnesses and their mobile Bible-based literature displays have become a staple in major metropolitan areas worldwide and are often seen at rail and bus stations, airports, harbors, main streets, and large sporting events such as the Hockey African Cup for Club Champions.</p></div><div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/356d0906a24ee61467368201060f8c6f_XL.jpg" alt=" The Bible-based publications cover timely topics such as family happiness" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Blantyre – November 25: Hundreds of people will converge at the National Hockey Stadium for the final day of the African Cup for Club Champions but amidst all the big-game festivities will be modest Bible-based displays. </strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Jehovah’s Witnesses from all over Blantyre have organized modest Bible-based displays around one of the most anticipated African hockey games of the year. Spectators will watch the final showdown of the men’s and women’s tournament inside the stadium, but just a few meters away a number of volunteers will be standing next to mobile literature carts. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Their game plan: offer a warm smile, a listening ear, and answers from the Scriptures to anyone who asks life’s big questions about existence, hope for dead loved ones, and the future. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;"> Amos Chirwa, local spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses, noted that many people at large sporting events are searching for something that will bring them lasting peace and happiness. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">“People come to these events because they want a break from the pressures of daily living. They come to have fun and to forget about their troubles for a while,” said Chirwa.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">We’re here to let them know that joy and peace doesn’t have to be just one day or even just a few days out of the year,” he said. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Anyone is welcome to take free literature from the carts. The Bible-based publications cover timely topics such as family happiness and how to find success and will be offered in selected languages. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Ikweanji Jackson, a volunteer from Blantyre plans to have friendly conversations with those who stop by. Smartphone in hand, he’s also ready to show people <a href="http://jw.org/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://jw.org&source=gmail&ust=1701073815075000&usg=AOvVaw1WErTiIcirAeBV7SiulQ_m">jw.org</a>, the organization’s official website, where they can easily access positive content in more than 1,070 languages. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">“People need positivity nowadays,” said Ikweanji. “If I can make just one person smile while I’m volunteering, then I consider that a big win for the day.” </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Jehovah’s Witnesses and their mobile Bible-based literature displays have become a staple in major metropolitan areas worldwide and are often seen at rail and bus stations, airports, harbors, main streets, and large sporting events such as the Hockey African Cup for Club Champions.</p></div>Total Energies Takes Steps to Enhance Road Safety2023-11-25T08:42:58+00:002023-11-25T08:42:58+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/66-news-in-southern-region/6908-total-energies-takes-steps-to-enhance-road-safetyChristopher Sandenyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/1ad0cda0b78013d5416841bcb457fbc2_XL.jpg" alt="Govender (left) helping one of the Kabaza operator put on a helmet" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;"><strong>Total Energies Malawi Limited says it has taken serious steps in the eradication of road accidents, injuries and deaths among motor bike operators amid rampant accidents rocking the country.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">Managing Director of Total Energies, Nerusha Govender told journalists in Blantyre on Friday that the company has now started distributing helmets and providing awareness to the motorcycle drivers.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">She said 100,000 helmets will be distributed in 40 countries where Total Energies is operating, of which, 1,520 will be shared to people in Malawi thereby assisting vulnerable populations with good quality helmets.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">“Helmets if put on correctly, can reduce the risk of death by 42 percent and the risk of head injuries by 69 percent, so motorcycle drivers have to be encouraged to use the helmets all the time,” said Govender.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">She added that Total Energies will continue raising awareness of road safety thereby strengthening the company’s local presence with sustainable impact.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">This comes when statistics indicate that 28 percent of road accidents victims in the World involve motorbikes, with for instance, motor bike operators commonly known as Kabanza in Malawi being accused of fueling road accidents, injuries and death.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">Others argue that this group needs to be given intensive road safety training as one way of curbing such accidents.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">As a matter of interest, Total Energies Marketing Malawi Limited is one of major players in the energy distribution sector and it has been working in Malawi for 60 years now.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">According to the latest World Health Organisation (WHO) data published in 2020, Road Traffic Accidents Deaths in Malawi reached 6,221 or 6.45% of total deaths.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">The age adjusted Death Rate is 57.15 per 100,000 of population which ranks Malawi number three in the world.</p></div><div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/1ad0cda0b78013d5416841bcb457fbc2_XL.jpg" alt="Govender (left) helping one of the Kabaza operator put on a helmet" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;"><strong>Total Energies Malawi Limited says it has taken serious steps in the eradication of road accidents, injuries and deaths among motor bike operators amid rampant accidents rocking the country.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">Managing Director of Total Energies, Nerusha Govender told journalists in Blantyre on Friday that the company has now started distributing helmets and providing awareness to the motorcycle drivers.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">She said 100,000 helmets will be distributed in 40 countries where Total Energies is operating, of which, 1,520 will be shared to people in Malawi thereby assisting vulnerable populations with good quality helmets.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">“Helmets if put on correctly, can reduce the risk of death by 42 percent and the risk of head injuries by 69 percent, so motorcycle drivers have to be encouraged to use the helmets all the time,” said Govender.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">She added that Total Energies will continue raising awareness of road safety thereby strengthening the company’s local presence with sustainable impact.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">This comes when statistics indicate that 28 percent of road accidents victims in the World involve motorbikes, with for instance, motor bike operators commonly known as Kabanza in Malawi being accused of fueling road accidents, injuries and death.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">Others argue that this group needs to be given intensive road safety training as one way of curbing such accidents.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">As a matter of interest, Total Energies Marketing Malawi Limited is one of major players in the energy distribution sector and it has been working in Malawi for 60 years now.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">According to the latest World Health Organisation (WHO) data published in 2020, Road Traffic Accidents Deaths in Malawi reached 6,221 or 6.45% of total deaths.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400; text-align: justify;">The age adjusted Death Rate is 57.15 per 100,000 of population which ranks Malawi number three in the world.</p></div>Zomba COSs Planning Next Steps After Thursday Violence2023-11-24T08:37:44+00:002023-11-24T08:37:44+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/66-news-in-southern-region/6907-zomba-coss-planning-next-steps-after-thursday-violenceOnline Journalistnyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p><strong>Civil society organisations in Zomba are planning the next steps following violence and alleged police violent crushing of yesterday's demonstration.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p>The old capital yesterday turned into a war-like zone as the police crushed a demonstration called by comedian-cum-political activist Bon Kalindo.</p>
<p>Kalindo was briefly detained was freed on a police bail, but 23 of his followers were taken in.</p>
<p>Spokesperson for Eastern Police Region Superintendent Patrick Mussa says the suspects have been charged with conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and inciting violence.</p>
<p>Mussa says the suspects will appear in court soon.</p>
<p>Kalindo has been leading protests against what he says poor political and economic management of the government of President Lazarus Chakwera.</p>
<p>Our reporter Emmanuel Chibwana says CSO leaders planned to make a statement on the way forward on Friday afternoon.</p>
<p>Mayhem erupted during the Kalindo-led demonstrations after the police arrested one the demonstrators, triggering an angry reaction, and prompting the police to use teargas.</p>
<p>The police have defended the indiscriminatory use of teargas and physical handling of the demonstrators, saying the act was within the law. </p>
<p>Superintendent Mussa said thugs took advantage of the demonstrations to promote criminality.</p>
<p>There widespread social media on how the police conducted themselves in quelling situation in Zomba.</p>
<p>The Zomba Central Hospital is on record to have received people who fainted after teargas canisters exploded in residential areas.</p>
<p> </p></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p><strong>Civil society organisations in Zomba are planning the next steps following violence and alleged police violent crushing of yesterday's demonstration.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p>The old capital yesterday turned into a war-like zone as the police crushed a demonstration called by comedian-cum-political activist Bon Kalindo.</p>
<p>Kalindo was briefly detained was freed on a police bail, but 23 of his followers were taken in.</p>
<p>Spokesperson for Eastern Police Region Superintendent Patrick Mussa says the suspects have been charged with conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and inciting violence.</p>
<p>Mussa says the suspects will appear in court soon.</p>
<p>Kalindo has been leading protests against what he says poor political and economic management of the government of President Lazarus Chakwera.</p>
<p>Our reporter Emmanuel Chibwana says CSO leaders planned to make a statement on the way forward on Friday afternoon.</p>
<p>Mayhem erupted during the Kalindo-led demonstrations after the police arrested one the demonstrators, triggering an angry reaction, and prompting the police to use teargas.</p>
<p>The police have defended the indiscriminatory use of teargas and physical handling of the demonstrators, saying the act was within the law. </p>
<p>Superintendent Mussa said thugs took advantage of the demonstrations to promote criminality.</p>
<p>There widespread social media on how the police conducted themselves in quelling situation in Zomba.</p>
<p>The Zomba Central Hospital is on record to have received people who fainted after teargas canisters exploded in residential areas.</p>
<p> </p></div>Climate Smart Public Works Program Second Cycle Targets Over 14,000 Beneficiaries in Nsanje 2023-11-23T19:46:44+00:002023-11-23T19:46:44+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/66-news-in-southern-region/6906-climate-smart-public-works-program-second-cycle-targets-over-14-000-beneficiaries-in-nsanjeAlfred Gutanyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/f3b211aff541b1d51acfd470dde0cb77_XL.jpg" alt="Malirana" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Over 14, 000 poor households in Nsanje district stand to benefit from the climate smart public works program in the second cycle.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="text-align: justify;">Nsanje district council Assistant Land Conservation Officer, Leonard Malirana, told Zodiak Online project activities will start by the end of this month.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“The names of beneficiaries are drawn from the Unified Beneficiary Registry (UBR). We scrutinize the names per catchment to ensure that the program benefits the intended beneficiaries,” explained Malirana.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">He added that “we have 16 catchments in the district. The climate public works program is aimed at empowering the communities to conserve their land as you are aware that most of the land is degraded.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“The activities include nursery establishment, construction of the marker ridges and construction of water holding trenches,” said Malirani.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Nsanje district council yesterday, Wednesday, briefed the media in the district ahead of the second cycle.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">According to Malirana, the beneficiaries receive K14, 400 per month and get K28, 800 after working for two months.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">He said the communities identify their own projects adding that they work for 12 days plus five days as part of community contribution.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Cyclone Freddy damaged a lot of conservation structures in these catchments so as a council with the community we will be going back during this coming cycle to rehabilitate the damaged structures.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Our soils are degraded. We believe most areas will be conserved because the communities are owning the project,” said Malirana.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">He further disclosed that beneficiaries under the program have been included on lean season program support where they will get K150, 000.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the first cycle, Nsanje had 17681 beneficiaries under the climate smart public works program.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">District council spokesperson, Robert Nayeja, says the figure will go down to around 14,000 beneficiaries in the second cycle, “due to other anomalies in the UBR."</p></div><div class="K2FeedImage"><img src="https://zodiakmalawi.com/media/k2/items/cache/f3b211aff541b1d51acfd470dde0cb77_XL.jpg" alt="Malirana" /></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Over 14, 000 poor households in Nsanje district stand to benefit from the climate smart public works program in the second cycle.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="text-align: justify;">Nsanje district council Assistant Land Conservation Officer, Leonard Malirana, told Zodiak Online project activities will start by the end of this month.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“The names of beneficiaries are drawn from the Unified Beneficiary Registry (UBR). We scrutinize the names per catchment to ensure that the program benefits the intended beneficiaries,” explained Malirana.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">He added that “we have 16 catchments in the district. The climate public works program is aimed at empowering the communities to conserve their land as you are aware that most of the land is degraded.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“The activities include nursery establishment, construction of the marker ridges and construction of water holding trenches,” said Malirani.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Nsanje district council yesterday, Wednesday, briefed the media in the district ahead of the second cycle.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">According to Malirana, the beneficiaries receive K14, 400 per month and get K28, 800 after working for two months.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">He said the communities identify their own projects adding that they work for 12 days plus five days as part of community contribution.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Cyclone Freddy damaged a lot of conservation structures in these catchments so as a council with the community we will be going back during this coming cycle to rehabilitate the damaged structures.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">“Our soils are degraded. We believe most areas will be conserved because the communities are owning the project,” said Malirana.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">He further disclosed that beneficiaries under the program have been included on lean season program support where they will get K150, 000.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the first cycle, Nsanje had 17681 beneficiaries under the climate smart public works program.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">District council spokesperson, Robert Nayeja, says the figure will go down to around 14,000 beneficiaries in the second cycle, “due to other anomalies in the UBR."</p></div>Clean Schools Initiative Sanitizes Some Primary Schools2023-11-23T19:35:36+00:002023-11-23T19:35:36+00:00https://zodiakmalawi.com/nw/national-news/66-news-in-southern-region/6905-clean-schools-initiative-sanitizes-some-primary-schoolsMoses Masiyenyavatar10@gmail.com<div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Balaka based non-governmental organization Clean Schools Initiative, apart from promoting waste management in primary schools, has started equipping girls with skills on how to make reusable sanitary pads.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="text-align: justify;">Esther Menyere, project manager for Clean Schools Initiative says they thought of engaging girls at Balaka primary school, so as to ensure that they do not miss classes when menstruating.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">"We are currently targeting four primary schools in Balaka, where after impressive waste management initiatives, we are now engaging adolescent girls imparting on them skills pertaining reusable sanitary pad manufacturing," said Menyere.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She says their main mission is to equip students with the expertise and abilities necessary for responsible waste management, nurturing a more pristine, secure, and healthier educational atmosphere in the primary schools within Balaka district.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Headmaster for Balaka primary school Daytoney Malefula says waste management in primary schools project has transformed the environment at the school.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Fabiano Mbendera, School health and nutrition coordinator for Balaka district education office, commended Clean Schools Initiative for the interventions, which he said apart from improving sanitation and hygiene, the reusable pad-making skill imparted on girls, will assist fighting absenteeism among menstruating learners.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The vision according to Clean Schools Initiative is to create a generation of environmentally conscious students who take pride in maintaining cleanliness, champion proper waste management practices, and actively contribute to a sustainable and pollution-free world.</p></div><div class="K2FeedIntroText"><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Balaka based non-governmental organization Clean Schools Initiative, apart from promoting waste management in primary schools, has started equipping girls with skills on how to make reusable sanitary pads.</strong></p>
</div><div class="K2FeedFullText">
<p style="text-align: justify;">Esther Menyere, project manager for Clean Schools Initiative says they thought of engaging girls at Balaka primary school, so as to ensure that they do not miss classes when menstruating.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">"We are currently targeting four primary schools in Balaka, where after impressive waste management initiatives, we are now engaging adolescent girls imparting on them skills pertaining reusable sanitary pad manufacturing," said Menyere.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">She says their main mission is to equip students with the expertise and abilities necessary for responsible waste management, nurturing a more pristine, secure, and healthier educational atmosphere in the primary schools within Balaka district.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Headmaster for Balaka primary school Daytoney Malefula says waste management in primary schools project has transformed the environment at the school.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Fabiano Mbendera, School health and nutrition coordinator for Balaka district education office, commended Clean Schools Initiative for the interventions, which he said apart from improving sanitation and hygiene, the reusable pad-making skill imparted on girls, will assist fighting absenteeism among menstruating learners.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The vision according to Clean Schools Initiative is to create a generation of environmentally conscious students who take pride in maintaining cleanliness, champion proper waste management practices, and actively contribute to a sustainable and pollution-free world.</p></div>