Apostle Clifford Kawinga of Salvation for All Ministries has told Zodiak Online on Saturday that the nation need educated people to help in propelling development.

Kawinga said  chiefs must play a leading role in encouraging their subjects in discouraging young people getting married but rather stay in school.

“We can develop this country if people are well educated and it is the role of traditional and faith leaders to champion the campaign among people which they serve in their respective areas," said Kawinga.

He made the remarks when his ministry held a charity and gospel crusade at Nyezelera Primary School ground in Phalombe where at least 2, 000 most vulnerable households received bags of maize and other food items.

He emphasized the need for people to repent their sins and receive Jesus Christ as their personal lord and savior as we are waiting for the second coming of Jesus Christ.

On her part, senior chief Kaduya said chiefs under her jurisdiction have been terminating child marriages to allow the girl child complete education.

Kaduya said chiefs use by-laws which were formulated to protect children from early marriages in the district, adding those failing to adhere to the set by-laws are being punished.

“We would want to thank Salvation for All Ministries for the spiritual and physical nourishment because people need to be given food for their bodies and word of God for their souls,” said Kaduya.

One of the beneficiaries, Joyce Chidothe, has described the support as timely arguing people in the area are grappling with hunger.

Salvation for All Ministries is targeting 9, 000 most vulnerable households with bags of maize and other food items in Mulanje, Phalombe, Chikwawa and other parts of Thyolo.