Malawi Congress Party (MCP) presidential running mate, Dr. Vitumbiko Mumba, has pledged to tackle key challenges affecting communities in Thyolo, including water shortages, hunger, low wages on estates, and limited access to loans.

Speaking during a campaign trail at Bvumbwe, Thunga, Thyolo boma, Mangunda and Luchenza on Thursday, Mumba said the MCP government has already demonstrated commitment to uplifting lives through various social protection and development programs.

"Thyolo has benefited greatly from initiatives such as Mtukula Pakhomo cash transfers. Going forward, we will do more by addressing water challenges, improving wages in estates, and ensuring that more people, especially the youth, access NEEF loans. We plan to increase the fund to K1 trillion so that many Malawians can stand on their own,” Mumba said.

He further promised to revamp the dairy farming sector in the district, including improving milk prices to benefit smallholder farmers.

Deputy Minister of Transport and Public Works, Baba Steve Malondera, who accompanied Mumba, expressed optimism about the MCP’s chances in the upcoming elections.

“We are confident President Lazarus Chakwera will win again. Since 2020, his voter base has grown significantly because people can see the development taking place,” Malondera said.

Thyolo District Commissioner, Hudson Kuphanga, said the new facilities have greatly boosted staff morale, and currently they are renting out old offices to private institutions for revenue.

Meanwhile, Senior Chief Boyidi has also encouraged issue-based campaigns instead of violence ahead of the September 16 polls.

Mumba was accompanied by other notable figures, including Esther Mcheka Chilenje and Brown Mpinganjira.