The CCAP Blantyre Synod has released a pastoral letter addressing key challenges facing Malawi, including hunger, forex shortages, and political unrest, while also acknowledging some development milestones.

The letter was issued following the Third Administration Conference held in Blantyre on November 12, 2024. The Synod expressed hope that findings from the commission of inquiry into the plane crash that claimed the lives of former Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others will bring healing to grieving families and the nation at large.  

However, the Synod raised concerns about the widespread hunger caused by a lack of maize in most ADMARC depots.  

“Despite government promises to resolve the situation, the country's socio-economic development remains hindered by persistent fuel and forex shortages,” reads part of the letter.  

The Synod also lamented the shortage of essential medical supplies in public hospitals and called for urgent action to address these gaps.  

Additionally, it condemned the rising incidents of political violence, where perpetrators often evade justice. The church urged political leaders to stop exploiting unemployed youth for their agendas.  

In its message, the Synod encouraged citizens to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise to ensure they can exercise their democratic right in the upcoming elections.  

In response, Information Minister and government spokesperson Moses Kumkuyu welcomed the Synod’s concerns, describing them as a “voice of reason.” Kumkuyu said government is distributing food to mitigate hunger and is working to resolve forex and fuel shortages.  

He added that the government remains open to collaborating with the church to address the country’s socio-economic challenges.  

Kumkuyu also condemned violence targeting the president, including incidents of stoning his convoy and attacks on Malawi Congress Party (MCP) members, and called for prayers to restore peace and unity.