ECM AMECEA Thanks Giving Mass; Credits the Faithful, Zuza & MW Govt for Supporting the Plenary

ECM AMECEA Thanks Giving Mass; Credits the Faithful, Zuza & MW Govt for Supporting the Plenary 

Arch Bishop Thomas Msusa
Photo by ECM Communications

The Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) has recognized the role Catholic faithful, all Malawians, individuals and government played for the support towards the successful hosting for the 18th Plenary of Association for Member Episcopal Conferences for East Africa (AMECEA) last year in July.

During the Thanks Giving Mass for the successful hosting of AMECEA Plenary on Saturday at Don Bosco Parish in the Arch Diocese of Lilongwe, the newly elected chairman for ECM His Grace Arch Bishop Thomas Msusa said the church in Malawi has been the envy for the AMECEA region for the successful host of the conference between 16th to 26th July 2014. 

He among others said the church did well in preparations, hosting delegates and ensure that everything went on as planned to the last hour of the conference. He said this was dedication and cooperation by the faithful a positive spirit shoeing that the church in Malawi can do more.

Arch Bishop Thomas Msusa
Photo by ECM Communications

“As we are thanking God for the successful host of AMECEA conference, we also have to remember all those who worked tirelessly ensuring that we have a very successful conference.” said Msusa in his introductory remarks at the beginning of the mass, “We Catholic Bishops are very grateful that this success came from all of you and all other groups in the church. You really made us proud hosting that event” 

Part of Congregation

Arch Bishop Msusa also attributed successful host of AMECEA conference to the wise leadership of the late Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza who at that time as a chairman for ECM provided various oversight roles that enabled the church to take a good path for hosting the conference and asked the congregation to remember him in prayers.

Congregation asked to Pray for
Late Bishop Zuza

Msusa further thanked the Malawi government for supporting the church during the time of the conference particularly on security of all the delegates from AMECEA region.

The Chairman noted “a very big contribution to the success of the plenary” the support to the church from State President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika towards the conference using his pocket money.

He also expressed gratitude for the continued support to the church by the Vice President of Malawi Hon. Saulosi Chilima. The Arch Bishop said from start, Chilima helped the church in mobilizing resources for the conference.

Chilima appreciated for his support 

Collections for the mass were dedicated towards the help of flood victims of all the affected 15 districts and Bishop Msusa reminded priests, religious and the faithful to set aside Sunday 8th February 2015, as a special day for collections towards assistance of flood victims and appealed for more donation of cash or basic needs like food (non perishable), kitchen utensils, clothes among others.. He also reminded that all items collected at parishes should be brought to the Bishop’s House by Saturday 14th February 2015 for records and forwarding to the affected people.

At the end of the Mass representatives from all eight dioceses were given a book containing agreements made by Bishops during the 18th Plenary for AMECEA so that the message is taken to all the people. 

Chilima and madam Chilima exiting from
Don Bosco church 

The Thanks Giving Mass was attended by the vice president of the republic of Malawi honorable Saulosi Chilima

Malawi Catholic Bishops Elects Msusa ECM Chairman, Chimombo Acting Secretary, Fr. Buleya CUNIMA Vice Chancellor

Malawi Catholic Bishops Elects Msusa ECM Chairman, Chimombo Acting Secretary, Fr. Buleya CUNIMA Vice Chancellor

Arch Bishop Thomas Luke Msusa 

The first Annual Plenary Meeting of Episcopal Conference of  Malawi  convened from 26th to 30th January 2015 has elected Arch Bishop for Blantyre Arch Diocese His Grace Thomas Luke Msusa as its Chairman.

The new chairman has been unveiled on Saturday 31st January 2015 at Don Bisco Parish in the Arch Diocese of Lilongwe during the Thanks Giving Mass celebrations for the successful conference of 18th Plenary for Association for Member Episcopal Conferences for East Africa (AMECEA) held last year in July.

During the congregation other office bearers were also announced including the Acting Secretary General for ECM Fr. Emmanuel Chimombo and Vice Chancellor for Catholic University Fr. George Buleya who is taking the post from Professor Anacklet Phiri.

Fr. George Buleya walking upper
Stairs on the right side 

Arch Bishop Msusa is taking the post from the late Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza of Mzuzu diocese who passed away early this year during a car accident. Msusa served as Vice chairman for ECM and later Acting Chairman following Bishop Zuza's death.

In an interview ECM Acting Secretary General Fr. Emmanuel Chimombo clarified that the election of Arch Bishop Msusa follows ECM statutes and not the result of death of Bishop Joseph Zuza.

Fr. Chimombo walking to the left

"Episcopal Conference of Malawi statutes stipulates that every three years elections be held to fill in new office bearers, so 2015 was an election year." He said, "It was coincidence that these elections happened few weeks after the death of the sitting chairman late bishop Zuza."

The chairmanship for Episcopal Conference of Malawi and other posts are valid for three years but one can be elected for two consecutive time.

The other officers elected to run various institutions for ECM for the next three years are; Vice chairman and Bishop Chairman for the Catholic Education Commission His Lordship Bishop Martin Mtumbuka, Bishop Chairman for Catholic Secretariat His Grace Arch Bishop Tarsizio Ziyaye, Bishop Chairman for Pastoral Commission and Chairman for the Health Commission His Lordship Bishop Peter Musikuwa,

Bishop Chairman for Ecumenism and Interfaith Dialogue His Lordship Bishop Emmanuel Kanyama and Bishop Chairman for the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace His Lordship Bishop Montfort Sitima.

ECM Set Aside 31 Jan, 8 Feb Collections Towards Flood Victims As the Church, UN Continue Appealing for More Help

ECM Set Aside 31 Jan, 8 Feb Collections Towards Flood Victims As the Church, UN Continue Appealing for More Help

The Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) to dedicate all collections for AMECEA Thanks Giving Mass collection on 31st January and set aside Sunday 8th February 2015 a special day for collections towards the help of flood victims of all the affected 15 districts.

In a letter expressing dismay over the tragic consequences of the heavy rains since the onset of the first rains and solidarity message to the victims, the Church has also appealed to all well wishers to help the affected victims of floods. 

“Our Brothers and Sisters who have been affected by this national disaster, require immediate assistance for them to continue living a dignified life” reads the letter signed by Arch Bishop Thomas Msusa Chairman for ECM addressed to the church, all people of good will, companies and organizations

“In the spirit of solidarity we the Catholic Bishops in Malawi, call upon catholic faithful and all people of Goodwill to join hands and contribute generously”

“Inspired by the gospel values of our Lord; “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me” (Mt 25:35-36) we Catholic Bishops in Malawi are inviting priests, religious and the faithful to set aside Sunday 8th February 2015, as a special day for collections towards this noble cause” 

The letter says people can donate cash or basic needs like food (non perishable), kitchen utensils clothes, water, shelter, blankets and many other items and instructed that all items collected at the parish should be brought to the Bishop’s House by Saturday 14th February 2015 for records and forwarding to the affected people.

The letter also urged people to contribute through mobile phones either on Airtel or TNM by sending an SMS ‘Floods’ or ‘Pepani’ to 50121 where each SMS shall cost K100 “it is more blessed to gve than to receive (Acts 20:35)“ reminded the Bishops.

The Malawi President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika declared  Sunday 8th February which the Catholic Church has set aside as a special day for collections towards assisting flood victims as a Day for National Prayers for the victims of these floods.

An estimated 361,181 people (66,945 households) have been affected with 121,000 (22,000 households) displaced and over 70 people died and hundreds missing.

Similarly a group of United Nations human rights experts in GENEVA on 30 January 2015, has urged the international community to rapidly provide all necessary funding and assistance to the Government of Malawi and humanitarian actors in response to some of the worst flooding in the country in living memory. 

The statement from UN office in Malawi says the experts urged that assistance is needed to confront massive and complex challenges, “The flooding has displaced large numbers of people and presents massive and complex challenges for Governments and their humanitarian allies in the short, medium and longer-term,” said UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons Chaloka Beyani.

According to the statement, Léo Heller, Special Rapporteur on the human right to water and sanitation said “Safe water, sanitation and hygiene must be provided urgently for the survival of those affected, prioritizing the most vulnerable groups, but also for the prevention of water-related diseases such as cholera and malaria". An estimated USD 3.4 million is needed to respond to urgent healthcare needs and to prevent and control outbreaks of disease.

The statement adds that the experts also praised the Government leadership for responding quickly to the crisis and welcomed the immediate response by several countries and humanitarian agencies in providing funding and aid. However they called on others within the international community to do everything possible to meet the current serious shortfall in funds and provision of essential aid.

Pres Mutharika Declares 8th Feb Day of Interdenominational Prayers for Flood Victims.

Pres Mutharika Declares 8th Feb Day of Interdenominational Prayers for Flood Victims.


Government says His Excellency the President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has declared that Malawi observe a National Day of Prayer and Worship in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the flooding and thunderstorms that hit Malawi a few weeks ago.

"In view of this, the President has
directed that Interdenominational
Prayers be held on Sunday, 8th February 2014 at Robbins Park in Blantyre." Reads part of the statement signed by Honorable Kondwani Nankhumwa Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture.

"This will be an opportunity to pray for survivors and victims of the worst floods in the nation’s history."

In the statement, President and
Government have once more extend their deepest condolences to the families of the victims of these floods.

Malawi has this year experienced a worst rainy season. It is estimated that up to 638,000 people who have been affected by
the floods in the 15 districts. It is also estimated that 63,531 hectares has been submerged by flood waters as of 13 January 2015.


The situation has left hundreds of families homeless and many died.


"Government will with the support of its development partners continue providing assistance to the survivors and those in need of assistance. Government further wishes to thank and appeal to all well-wishers to continue providing assistance to the affected families and communities." Reads the statement and adds "May peace and comfort be with all affected ones and the entire nation during this difficult time."


State President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika recently revealed that these floods have already costed the Malawi economy at least K23.9 billion.

DPP Agrees With Judge's Wants; Conclusion of Mphwiyo Attempted Murder Case in May

DPP Agrees With Judge's Wants; Conclusion of Mphwiyo Attempted Murder Case in May

The Lilongwe High Court Judge has told both prosecution and defense lawyers for the case of attempt murder of former budget director Mr. Paul Mphwiyo to be concluded by the moth of May this year.

Justice Michael Mtambo said this on Wednesday evening before adjourning the case after finishing of cross examination by Pika Manondo's lawyer Gift Mwakhwawa since morning of the day.

"The judgement of this case should be in May" he said before adjourning the matter to 17, 18 and 19th of February where among others the court is to continue with cross examination by other lawyers Oswald Mtupila and Wapona Kita.

The judge observed that there should be no unnecessary adjournments and delays during cross examination and urged both parties to provide to the court all relevant documents so that there are no obstacles to delay the case.

Commenting on the judges proposal Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Mary Kachale in an interview welcomed the decision saying "we are very glad to hear that the court is very committed in making sure we conclude this case with speed."

When the court convenes in weeks to come the court shall also hear an independent medical examination report from Psychiatrist pertaining to the state of Oswald Lutepo one of the accused in this case. The state is expected to bring the doctor in the court following a medical report submitted earlier to the court from Oswald Mtupila lawyer for Lutepo. The report indicates that Lutepo has developed an Anxiety Disorder a situation which may prevent him from making appearances at the court.

The lawyer said his client was admitted at Mzuzu MASM clinic and he is going to be reffered to Mzuzu hospital. But the state applied to the court to be given leave to obtain a independent doctor to examine Mr. Lutepo as to his fitness to stand trial.

The accused persons in the case of attempted murder of Mr. Mphwiyo are Raphael Kasambara, Pika Manondo, Dauka Manondo, MacDonald Kumwembe, Robert Kadzuwa and Oswald Lutepo answering the charges of conspiracy to murder and attempted murder.

Cross Examination

During cross examination Lawyer for Pika Manondo Mr. Gift Mwakhwawa quizzed Mr. Mphwiyo on several issues.

Mwakhwawa asked of Mphwiyo friendship with one of the accused Oswald Lutepo and how often he talked to former State President Dr. Joyce Banda.

The lawyer further inquired issues surrounding a note he wrote at the hospital hours after his shooting and reasons for his failure to hand it over to law enforcers. Mphwiyo said he wrote a note disclosing names of individuals responsible of his shooting and it was made available only to his wife, mother and aunt "in case" he died without telling his story. He also said he did not want to disclose that note to police for the safety of his family knowing that Raphael Kasambara (representing himself in this case) was then a Minister.

Much time on cross examination also was devoted on Mphwiyo's reactions to threats from the accused persons as well as information which Mr. Phwiyo got from a phone call from former Information Minister Brown James Mpinganjira alerting Mphwiyo that the accused persons have numbered days of his life to 10 days.

Mphwiyo who is the state witness told the court that he got numerous threats from the former Attorney General and Justice Minister Raphael Kasambara who used "agents" (other accused persons) forcing him to make dubious payments.

Mphwiyo said Pika Manondo "used to come to my house we would chat. Then they would tell me that it is good that you oblige to what the honorable Minister (Kasambara) is telling you because he is a dangerous persorn." Said Mphwiyo "But I did not believe he could be dangerous to the extent of killing a person."

He later told the court that he met with Mr. Kasambara to confront him on those threats but did not confront other accused persons for he thought they were just agents.

Later in the afternoon the cross examination continued particularly on ownership of vehicle which Mr. Mphwiyo was driving at the time of his shooting.

The shooting of Paul Mphwiyo led to revelation of cash gate scandal which involved public officers and other business persons as well as companies getting money from government through dubious payments. Both fake and well-known businesses were getting payments from government without provision of evidence of provision of service in relation to payments made or through over valued payments (inflamed procurement prices).

From the scam Malawi government lost billions of money and lost direct budget aid from countries that support Malawi government.

Cashgate Convict Soko Gets 7 years Imprisonment

Cashgate Convict Soko Gets 7 years Imprisonment

Former Deputy Youth Director for Malawi Congress Party Wyson Dzinyemba Soko has been sentenced to 7 and half years imprisonment.

Senior Resident Magistrate Patrick Chirwa when passing the sentence on Wednesday said the accused conduct deprived of government coffers which could have been used to benefit all Malawians.

The court gave Soko  4 years for money laundering and 3 and half years for theft.

Dzinyemba Soko was last year found guilty of siphoning K40.9 million from ministry of tourism through his Wymbaso General Dealers

Wyson Soko has been pleaded not guilty to all two charges of Theft and Money Laundering

Soko has become a third convict to get a prison sentence since the commencement of Cash gate cases

Fire Damages MAFCO Quartermaster: MDF, Police Establishing the Cause

Fire Damages MAFCO Quartermaster: MDF, Police Establishing the Cause

Malawi Police Service and Malawi Defense Force are in a joint investigation into the cause of fire which has gutted down Malawi Armed Forces College (MAFCO) Quartermaster destroying property worth Millions of Kwachas.

Salima Police Public Relations Officer Sergeant Gift Chitowe confirmed that the raging fire which began on the evening of 25th January has burnt to ashes property including uniforms, beddings and kitchen utensils and food.

"By the time police visited the scene found that the fire was still on and items such as uniforms that is Camouflages, boots, and beddings, kitchen utensils, fridges plus food items all got burnt to ashes." He said "Currently the soldiers in collaboration with the police are working hand in hand to establish the cause of fire."

Global Fund Allocates $574 M to Support MW on AIDS, TB, Malaria

Global Fund Allocates $574 M to Support MW on AIDS, TB, Malaria

The Malawi high-level delegation to Geneva, Switzerland to hold discussions with the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria on a number of issues, has disclosed that Global Fund has committed to allocate $574 million to Malawi for initiatives that strive for the best use of the money in the fight against three diseases over the next three years until December 2017.

Minister of Health Dr. Jean Kalilani who led Lilongwe delegation between January 17th to 20th January 2015, told members of press on Monday evening in Lilongwe that Global Fund has "declared its strong support" for 90-90-90, the road map developed by UNAIDS that is designed to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030 with rapidly increased HIV testing, prevention and treatment and with eliminating stigma and discrimination.

The minister said Malawi government in the meeting "expressed commitment to maximizing the impact of Global Fund resources through a responsible, accountable and efficient use of funds including implementing public financial management reforms and measures to strengthen procurement and supply chain management systems."

A joint statement issued at the end of the meeting between Malawi and Global Fund indicates that Malawi Government has made steady progress in public financial management reforms and has installed a Fiscal Agent at ministry of health which has led to improvements in the control of Global Fund resources.

It adds that a reform process for the Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) and oversight structures for the Global Fund grants has been initiated together with various stakeholders.

The statement further indicates that Malawi government has committed to domestic financing that is "willingness to pay" of $30 million towards the national response to fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria spread over a three year period.

The minister mentioned that the delegation also held meeting with Executive Director for UNAIDS, Mr. Michael Sidibe.

Dr. Kalilani said the UNAIDS director commended Malawi for "taking concrete actions" particularly reforms on proper management of HIV/AIDS resources and an allocation for the very first time of Malawi's own domestic resources for the ARV budget to the tune of $8.5 million.

The Minister noted that the trip was an important confidence building mission to update Global Fund on the performance improvement plans submitted by two principle recipients Malawi Government and National AIDS Commission (NAC) in 2014 and inform Global Fund on measures to be undertaken to restore confidence in Malawi's financial management and oversight as government is still writing concept notes requesting for funding for HIV/AIDS, TB and Malaria from Global Fund.

The Lilongwe delegation to Geneva included Chief Secretary to the Government, UNAIDS Country Director, acting Executive Director at NAC and Executive Director for Malawi Network for People Living with HIV (MANET+).

Salima Police Confiscate 27 Bags of Indian Hemp

Salima Police Confiscate 27 Bags of Indian Hemp

A 28 year old man is in police custody in Salima district for being found with 27 bags of Indian hemp.

 Salima Police Public Relations Officer Sergeant Gift Chitowe said the suspect Calvin Malisani was found in possession of the prohibited product in the minibus he was traveling in on Thursday from Nkhotakota district to Salima district.

Sgt Chitowa said police arrested the man at Kuti turnoff along Salima Lilongwe road following a tip from members of general public that the suspect was on his way while in possession of Indian hemp. He said all 27 bags weigh 50 kilograms each.

Calvin Malisani Mphonde hails from Chikunichowola village of T/A Mphonde in Nkhotakota district and will appear in court soon to answer charges of found in possession of Indian Hemp.

Police Hunting Criminals Carjacked Information Minister’s Vehicle

Police Hunting Criminals Carjacked Information Minister’s Vehicle

The Malawi Police Service (MPS) says is hunting for criminals who robbed official vehicle for Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture late hours of Thursday at Lunzu in Blantyre.

A Toyata VX, white in colour, Reg. No.MG330M belonging to Ministry of Information has been stolen by unknown criminals at New Nansengwe lodge at round 21:30 hours.

Senior Superintendent Mable Msefula, Deputy Press and Public Relations Officer said currently, police are investigating the matter to recover the vehicle as well as arrest the criminals.

“We are also urging the general public to tip us if they see such type of vehicle in their areas.” Said Snr Supt Msefula, “Malawi Police Service is advising drivers especially those who drive government vehicles to always exercise extra precautionary security measures as such vehicles attract criminals”

Snr. Supt Msefula said the vehicle was being driven by Mr. Jafali Malemia and thecriminals also stole cellphones and other properties from guards at the said lodge.

The Minister of Information Kondwani Nankhumwa was not in the vehicle at the time of robbery.

FMB Robbery; Police Arrests Another Suspect

FMB Robbery; Police Arrests Another Suspect

The Malawi Police Service (MPS) has arrested Grey Bamusi in connection to the armed robbery which took place at First Merchant Bank (FMB) Livingstone Towers Branch in Blantyre in which money amounting to K112, 000,000 got stolen, and a police officer was murdered, other officer was severely injured.

Senior Superintendent Mable Msefula, Deputy Press and Public Relations Officer for MPS confirmed the development and said the suspect hails from Makalauka Village T/A Chikowi in zomba.

Snr. Supt Msefula said the suspect was found with items, suspected to have been bought using the stolen money. The items include motor vehicle Toyota Ruox Reg. No. ZA2009, Zuku decoder and dish and upright fridge.

The MPS Deputy PRO said investigations are still going on to trace the remaining criminals and urged members of the general public to assist police with information leading to the arrests of the remaining suspects and others connected to criminal activities.

“The Malawi police service is calling upon the public to tip police on people suspected to be connected to criminal activities, more especially people who stay in our areas but they do not have proper means of earning a living more especially in towns. Landlords also should be patriotic by vetting tenants before they allow them to stay in their houses. And also those in hospitality business like lodges ,rest houses, hotels should be examining carefully on customer lodging in their rest houses and report on suspicious people to police.” Said Msefula

The arrest which happened on Thursday comes after eight other arrests made recently in connection to the incident. The suspects are Felix Malope from Chitengu Village T/A Bvumbwe in Thyolo, Peter Malunga of Musa Magasa Village T/A Machinjiri in Blantyre, Keston Mbewe of Makunje Village in Machinhiri Blantyre, Felix Khozomba from Likumbo Village T/A Likoswe iin Chiradzulo, William Chirwa from Nzikuola Village in T/A Mlonyeni in Mchinji.

The other suspects are Edward Kamiza of Lizulu T/A Goman in Ntcheu, Limbani Hope of Mlaope Village T/A Nsanama in Balaka and Martin Malimwe from Kalongonda T/A Mabuka in Mulanje district.

The Malawi Police Service has also strongly condemned acts of mob justice by some quarters of society following the recent incident happened in Chilomoni township where an angry mob killed Andy Wilson, 30, from chibwana village, T/A Kuntaja in Blantyre after being caught stealing goats.

Msefula has urged the public to desist from such behavior and called on local leaders to encourage people to enhance community policing by formulating structures and neighborhood watch groups.

LL Police Reduced Crime Rate By 2% in 2014

LL Police Reduced Crime Rate By 2% in 2014

Police in the Capital Lilongwe have in the year 2014 managed to reduce crime rate to a difference of 337 cases representing 2% (police standard calculations) a decline from 11.6% in 2013.

Sub Inspector Kingsley Dandaula said in an interview that the decline is a comparison of 8,735 cases in 2013 against 8,398 cases registered in 2014.

The statistics shows the decline was mainly a successful reduction of road accidents and general theft. Road accidents recorded in 2014 were reduced by 2.9% and General Theft cases were reduced by 0.16%.

Graph showing LL Police Trends between 2013-2014

“We managed to reduce crime to this far because we intensified patrols both foot and vehicle patrols during day and night in all strategic places like banks and residential areas” explained Dandaula. “Traffic officers also in the period under review intensified checks on unroad-worthy vehicles, drunk drivers and our CID’s were also conducting patrols and raids”

Though Lilongwe police managed to reduce overall crime rate to such percentage, but some crimes registered an increase as compared to 2013 figures. Robbery cases grew from 740 in 2013 to 915 cases in 2014 representing 0.88% (police standard calculations). And cases of defilement have also registered an increase as well as mob justice and burglary

“Some of the cases showing an increase just need proper sensitization" said Dandaula, "We now need to sensitise the general public more on dangers of mob justice and work together with various stakeholders on sensitising the public on evils of rape so that we should reduce these cases in 2015”

He also pointed out that police have not done well mainly due to challenges of poor funding resulting to scarcity of resources like money to buy fuel for police vehicles, and lack of good condition vehicles that can be used to respond to any call.

From the new statistics Lilongwe Police is one of the station which has managed to arrest most notorious criminals and recovered stolen property worth Millions of Kwacha's during the year under review.

Lilongwe police which is located at the centre of Malawi’s capital has two substations namely Lingadzi and Kawale. It has also 3 posts and total of 22 police units in both urban and rural areas. With current ratio of 1 police officer serving a population of 2080 (1:2080) against recommended 1 police officer managing 1500 population (1:1500), Lilongwe Police is continuing to struggle manage security situation due to the growing population in the capital as many people are flocking into the city seeking for greener pasture a development which is attracting theft and vandalism by armed robbers even from Malawi’s neighboring countries.

Despite numerous challenges Lilongwe police is facing Dandaula expressed hope that this might change as government has already began showing interest in police by procuring vehicles of which some have already been given to Lilongwe police. He assured that police will continue with efforts tightening security so that there should be no cases of security lapse in the capital.

                                                 Major Cases With Detailed Statistics

(Note: All percentage calculations are based on police standard percentage. Therefore all bracketed percentages are just a percentage change calculations)

8,735 cases were recorded in 2013 against 8,395 in the same period of 2014 a decrease of 337 representing 2% decrease  (3.86%)

81 murder cases were recorded in 2013 against 100 cases in 2014 a decrease of 19 representing 0.1% increase (23.46%)

4 cases registered in 2013 on mob justice against 6 cases in 2014 a difference of 2 representing 0.01% increase (50%)

On sexual offences; 18 cases were reported in 2013 on rape against 29 cases in 2014 a diference of 11 representing 0.06% increase (61.11%). And 69 defilement cases were reported in 2013 against 112 in 2014 a difference of 43 representing 0.22% increase (62.32%).

Burglary registered 38 cases in 2013 against 57 in 2014 deference of 19 representing 0.10% increase (50%).

Robbery cases increased from 740 cases in 2013 to 915 in 2014 a difference of 175 representing 0.88% increase (23.65%).

General Theft registered 2477 cases in 2013 against 2446 in 2014 a difference of 31 representing 0.16% decrease (1.25%).

Road accidents registered 2090 cases in 2013 against 2042 cases in 2014 a difference of 48 representing 2.9% decrease (2.3%)

Malawi Police Warns Against Killings of Albinos

Malawi Police Warns Against Killings of Albinos

The Malawi Police Service has appealed to the members of the general public to report any information leading to the arrests of people killing Albinos children’s.

In the eastern region districts of Malawi particularly Zomba City, Mulanje, Machinga and Phalombe several cases have been reported of either killings or missing of children born albino.

Deputy National Police Public Relations Officer Mable Msefula in an interview said police are “condemning this unbecoming behavior” and sent a strong warning that the “law shall take its course” on anyone found to be connected to such behavior as police are urging the public to tip police on people suspected to be connected to such behaviour.

“Right now we are calling the general public to be alert and guard against such conducts. They should report to police any information leading to arrest of anyone they know practicing this behaviour” She appealed

“As police we don’t condone such practice, right now there are several myths about albinos but it is not true that albinos are what people think they are or are medication of any kind, rather they are human beings like anybody else. Therefore this behavior should not be tolerated in our society” she said

One of the reported cases include Mr Baiton Makolija from Jali, Masale Village, T/A Mwambo in Zomba who reported missing of his sister Marita Makolija who was albino. He said Marita got missing between 17^th and 18^th January this year. On Monday 19^th January her clothes were spotted floating in the water 500m away from her home and after search, dead body was discovered in a newly dug pit near an anthill and was positively identified by the reporter.

The dead body had no head, legs and arms. Postmortem revealed that death was due to excessive loss of blood. Two more cases of such nature were reported in Mulanje and Machinga. In Machinga district police have managed to arrest two people who are suspected to be behind the kidnapping of a two year old albino.

“We are urging everyone in Malawi to let police know if anything relating to this malpractice happens in their area. Let’s work together to ensure that albino children are well protected” urged Msefula

LL High Court Finds Namata, Kasamba Guilty in Cashgate Case

LL High Court Finds Namata, Kasamba Guilty in Cashgate Case

The Lilongwe High Court has found guilty two Cashgate suspects Maxwell Namata and Luke Kasamba on cases they have been answering for money laundering and theft of government money.

Sentence on 2 February at 2 pm

On Wednesday the two appeared before Justice Annabel Mtalimanja on charges of theft and money laundering of up to K24.1 million from Ministry of Tourism through cheques the ministry issued two times yet the recipients did not supplying any service. The two cheques were deposited into Cross Marketing Limited bank account.

Namata has been found guilty of theft up to K14.4 million and money laundering of the said amount, while Luke Kasamba was found guilty of laundering K24.1 million.

Maxwell Namata for two times deposited Cheque amounting to K9.7 Million and K14.4 million got from Ministry of Tourism into Cross Marketing Limited bank account and Luke Kasamba a manager for the company was responsible for the withdrawal of the deposited money and handed it over to Namata.

Namata was found guilty on money laundering and theft of K14.4 million but no evidence found his link on K9.7 million. Kasamba was found guilty of laundering K24.1 million because he was responsible in the transfer of the funds.

Meanwhile laywers from both sides have been asked by the court to make submissions on sentencing by 29^th January.

The two will start spending their night at Maula Prison.

Private Security Companies Guidelines Formulation Begins

Private Security Companies Guidelines Formulation Begins

Government security agents together with government Ministries are in a two day meeting to formulate Guidelines for the operations of Private Security Companies so that this fast growing industry is properly regulated.

Since 2001 several attempts were made by Malawi Government to put in place guidelines for the industry but failed to do so. Lack of the guidelines has led to unregulated security company business and in very often times some of the security companies have been providing poor security service to customers.

Principle Secretary for Internal Security Mr. Often Thyolani when opening the meeting on Wednesday said the guidelines seek to address continued poor security service most companies are providing to customers.

He said the guidelines will ensure that people are following procedures of setting up the security company, security companies are offering adequate and proper security training, reasonable remuneration, proper recruitment, and ensure that security companies have adequate security equipments.

“Every game has rules just like football, for a long time the security companies have been operating without guidelines.”  Said Thyolani

He noted that due to the growing concerns of security in the country private security companies can play a crucial role in supporting Malawi Police Service in combating criminal activities. “We need private security companies to fill the security gaps.” He said, but bemoaned that the way security companies operate leaves a lot to be desired hence the need to formulate the guidelines that will help to end unprofessionalism characterized by most security companies.

He mentioned that theft cases happening in the country have in most cases been linked with security guards. He said this has been the case due to poor pay by security company owners and inadequate trainings.

Thyolani therefore pointed out that the guidelines will also set minimum wage to ensure discipline among security guards “Lack of reasonable remuneration is influencing security guards to find other means to help themselves. They steal at their workplaces, sometimes guards may connive with criminals to steal the very things they protect. We have numerous cases on this.” he said.

Earlier, Commissioner of Police Director of Research and Planning Dr George Kainja made similar remarks by Thyolani on the importance of regulating the private security companies so that they effectively support police in provision of security in the country “Security is prerogative of government but police cannot handle security matters alone we need to partner with private security companies but must be guided”

He added “The best way if we are to move forward in fighting crime, is where we begin to work together with security companies but we need to look at hiccups making private security companies not to do their job in efficient manner. So this is why we decided to come up with something that can guide the conduct of security companies” and mentioned that after the meeting there will be consultation meetings with security companies on the guidelines.

Officials from Malawi Police Service, Malawi Defense Force (MDF), and government ministries of Justice and Constitution Affairs, and Ministry of Labour are in those that are in the meeting.

71 Ethiopians Gets 3 months Imprisonment

Tobe Deported at the End of Jail Sentence

Dowa First Grade magistrate Court has sentenced 71 Ethiopian nationals to serve 3 months imprisonment with hard labour and that after their jail term government should deport them all.

The court also fined them K5, 000 each.

The convicted Ethiopians included 40 people arrest in the dawn of Tuesday 7^th January and other 31 who were arrested on 15^th January this year by Dowa police officers at Mbalame village along Dowa Lumbadzi Road.  The arrests were made following tipoff from the members of the general public as police in the district were in a sweeping exercise.

On Monday Dowa First Grade Magistrate Amulani Phiri heard from two prosecutors Inspector Ivy Sangwa and Sergeant Agnes Mphinga that the Ethiopian nationals entered the country illegally and were trying to sneak into Dzaleka Refugee Camp.

All suspects admitted that they managed to enter the country from the help of some Malawians and other Ethiopian nationals who are also in police custody. They pleaded guilty to the offences of entering the country illegally.

The prosecutors pleaded with the court to impose a stiff punishment for others to get a lesson.

First Grade Magistrate Phiri concurred with the prosecutors that stiff punishment was necessary to deter the malpractice. Both Malawian and Ethiopian nationals who were in the business of aiding the Ethiopian nationals to enter the country illegally will also soon appear before court.

MISA Malawi Ask Pres Mutharika to Re-instate Tembo Back to MBC

MISA Malawi Ask Pres Mutharika to Re-instate Tembo Back to MBC

The Media Institute of Southern Africa – Malawi Chapter (MISA) has called upon the president Peter Mutharika to reverse what it call ‘atrocious decision’ on re-deployment of Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Director General, Dr. Benson Tembo, to the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) for position of Technical Advisor.

The news broke last week that Director General of MBC, has been deployed to MACRA as Technical Advisor on digital migration with immediate effect.

According to the national broadcasters online report, Dr. Tembo on Friday bid farewell to Controllers and Directors of MBC where he said the new post is a secondment “I am being seconded to Macra so that means partly I am part of MBC but I will be with Macra where I will be advising on digital migration.”

In a statement Chairperson for MISA-Malawi Thom Khanje said Dr. Tembo has been earmarked for a subordinate position of Technical Advisor. Therefore the statement finds the removal of Dr. Tembo as retrogressive and a sign of continued political interference by the government in the operations of MBC as well as contrary to the promises by President Peter Mutharika in both his inaugural and first State of the Nation Address to Parliament in June and July 2014.

The chairperson says MISA-Malawi is surprised that such a decision concerning an employee of MBC has been made by the executive arm of the government and not the MBC board of directors who are the legal employers of the Director General as stipulated in Section 92, subsection 1 of the Communications Act of 1998 which reads: “The Board of MBC shall appoint a Director General, who shall be the chief executive officer of MBC.”

“MISA-Malawi therefore calls upon the president to reverse this atrocious decision on Dr. Tembo and let the MBC board independently assess his performance for possible re-engagement when his contract expires in April this year” reads the statement

The statement also call upon the president to always make sure that he lives by his words and desist from making decisions that are contrary to his promises.

“We remind the president of his stated commitments that his government “shall ensure that Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) and the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) are professional and report to Parliament annually as required by law” (Inaugural Speech, June 2014) and that he “allow the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation operate in an open, free and fair manner, make independent editorial decisions and I don't want my Minister of Information to interfere in their work. This is a promise I make to Malawi. The era of using the Public Broadcaster for Political mileage is gone”(State of the Nation Address, July 2014).”

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MISA-Malawi in the statement re-affirms its standing position on the need for MBC to be freed from political interference by reviewing the Communications Act to turn the corporation into a public service broadcaster which serves the needs of all Malawians regardless of their political affiliation.

UNICEF to Airlift 90 Tones of Relief Supplies to Flood Victims

UNICEF to Airlift 90 Tones of Relief Supplies to Flood Victims

As heavy rains continue to fall in Malawi, UNICEF is stepping up its relief efforts, airlifting an initial 90 tons of supplies, as it seeks to reach those most in need. 

UNICEF in a statement released on Monday 19^th January 2015 says is this week airlifting 90 tons of relief supplies including: essential medicines, tents and tarpaulins, therapeutic food and milk for treating malnutrition, hygiene kits and education and play supplies to aid children’s psychosocial recovery.  

The statement has indicated that UNICEF is working through its teams on the ground in Blantyre and Zomba to deliver life-saving interventions to those in the hardest hit districts of Nsanje, Chikwawa and Phalombe all in the Shire River Basin.  

The response is focused on displaced women and children, the UN Children’s Agency is supporting partners including the Government of Malawi, to provide clean water and temporary sanitation, monitor the nutritional status of children - and treat severe cases - and distribute essential medicines for women and children.   

“After surveying the flooded districts from the air, we know that the scale of flooding is immense, and with the rains still falling, the water is unlikely to recede quickly,” said UNICEF’s Representative in Malawi, Mahimbo Mdoe in the statement.  “UNICEF is focused in this initial phase on ensuring those who have survived the raging waters are supported with their essential needs such as clean water and health care.”

Mdoe said UNICEF will be quick in its response to reach displaced communities with clean water, sanitation and medical supplies because stagnant water and poor sanitation can be deadly for young children.

The Malawi Government is leading the coordination mechanism for response initiatives with UN Agencies and NGOs as co-leads.

Heavy rains this season, has left over 50 people dead and government estimate 27,000 households (approx 135,000 people) to have been displaced since the floods hit the country. Reports are indicating that some families are still trapped in areas surrounded by water, waiting for air or water rescue by the Malawi Defence Force (MDF). Displaced communities are being housed in schools or ad hoc camps, with a shortage of decent shelter and sanitation facilities.

On Tuesday 13^th January 2015, in accordance with powers conferred upon him by Section 32(1) of the Disaster Preparedness and Relief Act, President Professor Peter Mutharika declared all the districts that have been affected by floods Disaster Areas, with immediate effect.

Due to the increasing number of affected people making relief requirements also to increase, President Mutharika also appealed for humanitarian assistance, from the International donor community, the relevant United Nations agencies, the Non Governmental Organisations, the local private sector as well as all fellow citizens of goodwills as additional resources are required to provide assistance to all the affected people.

Woman Arrested for Attempt to Sell Daughter

Woman Arrested for Attempt to Sell Daughter 

A 23 year old mother earning a living through prostitution is expected to appear before Salima First Grade Magistrate Court for allegedly attempting to sell her biological daughter Salima police has confirmed.

Sergeant Gift Chitowe Salima Police Public Relations Officer says the suspect Miriam Kapindira was arrested by Salima police as she attempted to sell her 3 year old daughter to an unknown business lady from Lilongwe.

Chitowe said police on 15^th January received a tipoff that the suspect had a tryst at Kamuzu road trading centre with an unknown business lady from Lilongwe making negotiations on the illegal business.

But when police arrived at the scene they only found the suspect pocketing cash amounting to K100, 000, half of agreed payment of K200, 000. And the unknown business lady managed to escape arrest.

However, Sgt Chitowe said the woman currently in police custody still denies that she wanted to sell her daughter but wants her friend (unknown business lady) to raise the child. The suspect also told police that the money received from her friend was just a token of appreciation for being trusted as a right person to raise the child.

“According to our investigations we are convinced that this woman wanted to sell her daughter. Her explanation that the money received from her friend was only a token of appreciation, is not truthful, such cannot happen.” Said Chitowe

Sergeant Chitowe said the woman has already been charged with conduct likely to cause breach of peace.

Miriam Kapindira comes from Maplot area in T/A Maganda in Salima district and may appear before Salima First Grade Magistrate Court starting on Monday 19^th January 2014.

Bishop Zuza

Who Was He?

Late Bishop Zuza: his
death is a great shock

Thursday 15 January 2015 am on holiday, its John Chilembwe day. I cannot remember the exact time by now, but I’m convinced must be around 16:00hrs when my former colleague at Radio Maria Malawi met me somewhere at Area 18 in the Capital Lilongwe. In simple and straightforward but hard to believe “Akuti ambuye Zuza amwalira pangozi” (Bishop Zuza has died in an accident)

I got my phone and call Acting Secretary for Episcopal Conference of Malawi Fr. Emmanuel Chimombo because I knew his response will be authentic.

“Yes, His Lordship Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza was involved in an accident and was taken to hospital some few hours ago.” He responded “And has passed on” he said in his second sentence and said he is sending me an email announcing the death of the Bishop I have known for a very long time.

4:46 PM email Subject: Death Announcement - Bishop Zuza

Dear brethren,

Find attached sad news from the ECM.

Please help us inform Christians and all people who should know

                                Death Announcement

                     BISHOP JOSEPH MUKASA ZUZA

The Catholic Secretariat of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi regrets to announce the tragic death of Rite Reverend Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza, who was bishop of Mzuzu Diocese and Chairman for the Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM).

According to report, Bishop Zuza was involved in a road accident and has passed on while being attended in Mzuzu.

More information and details shall follow later.

MAY HIS SOUL REST IN ETERNAL PEACE

____________________________________________

                                  UTHENGA WACHISONI

                      AMBUYE JOSEPH MUKASA ZUZA

Bungwe la Maepiskopi a Mpingo Wa Katolika - Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) – ili ndi chisoni kukudziwitsani za imfa ya Olemekezeka Ambuye Joseph Mukasa ZUZA amene anali episkopi wa Dayosizi ya Mzuzu komanso Wapampando wa Bungwe la Maepiskopi aKatolika m’Malawi (ECM).

Malinga ndi uthenga umene talandira, Ambuye Zuza anachita ngozi ya galimoto ndipo amwalira pamene anali kulandira hithandizo kuchipatala ku Mzuzu.

Fr Andrew KAUFA

COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY – ECM

That was the exact content of the message

This was a shocking message, at 16:24 George Mkondiwa, Chief Secretary to the Government, responded “Fr., Received with immense sadness.”

Later, 19:25 hrs another email from government

H.E CONDOLENCE MESSAGE  ON DEATH OF BISHOP ZUZA

His Excellency the President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has learnt with deep shock at the untimely death of the Right Reverend Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza, of Mzuzu Diocese of the Catholic Church and current Chairman of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi who died in a tragic car accident on Thursday, 15^th January 2015.

The President joins all Malawians in expressing condolences and great sympathy to the family, the Catholic Church and the greater Malawi on the loss of a patriotic and development conscious Church Leader who was a partner of Government. The President is greatly saddened by this loss and joins all Malawians in mourning the passing of one the finest sons of the Nation.

The Government will stand shoulder to shoulder with the Catholic Church and all Malawians during this difficult moment for our country.

May His Soul Rest in Peace

KONDWANI NANKHUMWA, MP

MINISTER OF INFORMATION, TOURISM & CULTURE

GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON

15^TH JANUARY 2015

The death of Bishop Zuza is a great shock to both Catholics and non Catholics. He was a great Bishop who at an appropriate time could bravely speak against every wrong doing by government without fear or favour. Could applaud government when indeed the church saw it necessary to do so. He always ensured that there is justice.

Late Bishop Zuza
(pic by ECM)

The Late Zuza made Catholic faithful in Malawi Proud mid 2014 when Malawi hosted AMECEA plenary! The list of Late Bishop Zuza’s achievements is endless.

According to ECM Communication Officer Mr. Prince Henderson Rt. Rev Bishop Zuza was driving to his base, Mzuzu, from visiting his home village, Mhlafuta in Embangeni Mzimba “The Bishop's car registration number,MZ 6022 rear tyre burst causing the vehicle to swerve and get out of his control. His Lordship was in the process forced out of the car. This took place at Nthungwa, in the Chikangawa forest Reserve.”

In an updated death announcement Catholic Secretariat of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) His Lordship Joseph Mukasa Zuza, Bishop for the Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu and Chairman for ECM. Bishop Zuza passed on at Saint John Hospital on 15th January 2015.

According to ECM Information Officer In 2010 Bishop Zuza's diocese was split, partly out of a desire to ease transportation problems in the area.

Mr. Henderson’s information pertaining to the life of Bishop Zuza indicates that when the Diocese of Karonga was erected that year from territory of the Mzuzu diocese, Bishop Zuza said the split was "necessary, because it is quite taxing to travel to some places from headquarters." He described difficult travel on poor roads in all-terrain vehicles to parishes as far as 250 miles away.

He said in addition to having been Bishop of Mzuzu, in Malawi's north, Bishop Zuza was, until his death, president of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi, since 2011.

He pointed out that Bishop Zuza participated in the extraordinary Synod on Family that concluded last October, where he spoke up for Catholic teaching on family sought to uphold the sanctity of the Sacrament of marriage. A conservative and promoter of culture and traditions, the African prelate had expressed concerns over Western influence affecting African culture, particularly on the issues of homosexuality and same-sex marriage.

He also mention that during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Mzuzu Diocese, Archbishop Nicola Girasoli, then Apostolic Nuncio to Zambia and Malawi, lauded Bishop Zuza's pastoral initiatives for the faithful, saying that "during these years of visiting Mzuzu, the diocese has been very well managed and very well organized."

The Prefecture Apostolic of Northern Malawi was erected in 1947, and was elevated to the status of the Diocese of Mzuzu in 1961. It currently holds a Catholic population of 400,000.

In addition ECM has also pointed number of positions Bishop Zuza’s has held in the Church on local and regional (AMECEA) level.

On local level, he once served as Vice Chairman of ECM; Chairman for Justice and Peace Commission (CCJP); Chairman for Education Commission; Chairman for the Mixed Commission. On regional level he once served as Malawi Delegate in the AMECEA Executive Board; Chairman of AMECEA Staffing Committee (2008 – 2011); As Chairman for ECM Right Rev. Joseph Mukasa Zuza has died while serving as Chancelor of the Catholic University of Malawi (CUNIMA). On Saturday, 10th January, Bishop Zuza inaugurated the Jubilee Year for Kachebere Major Seminary.

Requiem Mass

Requiem mass for his repose shall be held on Monday, 19th January 2015, at St Peters Cathedral in Mzuzu, starting from 10.00 AM. Burial shall be held at Katoto, near the bishop’s house.

His Excellency, The Most Reverend Archbishop Julio Murat, The Apostolic Nuncio for Malawi and Zambia will preside the Requiem mass.

Right Reverend Zuza was born on 22 October 1955 at Malembo Village, T.A. Chief Mbelwa, Mzimba District; ordained priest on 25 July 1982; appointed Bishop of Mzuzu on 9th March 1995 by Saint. John Paul II and consecrated on 6th May 1995.

“The Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) shall remember him as a Bishop who waskind-hearted, cheerful and always available to everyone.” Reads the announcement signed by Fr Emmanuel Chimombo Acting Secretary General

May the Soul of Right Rev. Joseph Mukasa Zuza Rest in Eternal Peace.