Youth Rights Activists Differ With Drug Fight Body On Future Of Youth After Industrial Hemp Legalization

Sativa type not Industrial Hemp

Youth rights activists differ with drug fight body opinion that Industrial Hemp legalization will increase Marijuana smoking among Malawi youths.

Zakeyo faulted for his analysis 

Drug Fight Malawi analysis signed by its Executive Director, Nelson Baziwelo Zakeyu objects legalization of Industrial Hemp with fear that the hemp will increase Marijuana smoking among the youth, and bring negative impact than much anticipated positive hopes that the product is likely to alleviate poverty and bring economic prosperity to the country.

In the analysis Zakeyu draws attention to the 2004 country’s rapid situation analysis on the relationship between use of drugs and HIV by Ministry of Health and Centre for Social Studies at Chancellor College which found that tobacco and Marijuana were among most abused drugs by many Malawians due to accessibility and affordability since they are grown locally.

He stated in an interview that such previous studies are a lesson that legalizing unknown hemp to Malawians which also has thin distinct between it and Marijuana, it is hazardous attempt which may result in creating “a big Marijuana” in the country and worsen Marijuana smoking.

“Legalizing Industrial Hemp creates potential for broad scale development, manufacture and marketing of Marijuana products.” Warns Zakeyo

He further cautioned that just like how malfunctioned legal drug markets of alcohol and tobacco have created health problems in the country, legalizing Industrial Hemp will worsen poverty and poor health of people due to the known direct links of drug’s to non-communicable dieses.

Indica type: feared to be mistaken for Industrial
Hemp

“It is therefore far not right to think that legalizing Marijuana would actually have a positive impact in alleviation of poverty to the country in fact, doing so would worsen the situation, heavily and negatively impacting young people.” Advised Zakeyo further urging Government to tread carefully and “not play with danger” that will harm young people

However, in separate interview, two V

Youth Rights Activists, Lucky Mbewe and Charles Kajoloweka, Executive Directors for Centre for Youth Empowerment and Civic Education (CYECE) and Executive Director for Youth and Society (YAS) respectively have dismissed the drug fight body reservations, calling them as mare phobia and urged the body to bring objective ideas that will help to effectively curb smoking but not stopping the country from exploring ways diversifying the economy through growing of profitable cash crops.

Lucky Mbewe said to the contrary, Industrial Hemp legalization will bring more economic benefits to the country and not cause any harm to the youth or influence them to smoke Marijuana.

Said Lucky Mbewe; “Perhaps what I would propagate is, we should look at the dimensions in terms of the use of Industrial Hemp. This type of hemp can be used for medical or other industrial uses which may in turn boost our economy and not necessarily smoking. More importantly, a lot of youth will get economic empowerment from cultivating this type of Hemp. So we need to look at this issue on economic and health gains” 

On his part Charles Kajoloweka said “It is in our considered view that legalization of the Industrial Hemp for industrial purposes must be understood from the scientific perspective, that it is going to work for the Industry, which we already know that currently it is already working. And we know its economic benefits through number of studies that have indicated how Industrial Hemp is being used for industrial purposes.”

“Growing of Industrial Hemp could be another way of going forward as a country in terms of exploring possibilities of other cash crops” he added

Growing Industrial Hemp will bring benefits of
manufacturing industry of the above materials 

As of prevention of possible abuse of the hemp as feared by the Drug Fight Malawi which draws lessons from malfunctioned legal drug markets of alcohol and tobacco where children as young as 10 could access, both Mbewe and Kajoloweka have emphasized the needed for good regulatory framework and its enforcement once the hemp is legalized.

“In terms of this fear, it goes back to how it is going to be regulated and how regulatory framework to be put in place is going to be enforced. It just the same with alcohol, we have the laws that regulate the selling, production and consumption of alcohol in this country. But the question is to what extent do we enforce the regulatory framework.

So, we cannot continue remaining behind as the country to explore the possible opportunities in development because we are afraid that there will be some spillovers in terms of negative impact. So for us if there is proper legal framework put in place that regulates industrial use of the hemp then we should not be worried as a country.” observed Kajoloweka 

The two youth rights activists also concurred that effective engagement with key stakeholders and all Malawians to sensitize them on the pros and cons of the Industrial Hemp is imperative in order to avoid misconceptions around the hemp incessantly spread like a wildfire.

“People have a perception that every hemp is meant for smoking, those are some of the issues that requires masses to be sensitized on and publicize accordingly.” comments Mbewe 

Meanwhile, Private Sector Development Expert working with Invegrow on the trials and development of Industrial Hemp in Malawi, Nebert Nyirenda says Drug Fight Malawi fears are misleading and are mare misconception about Industrial Hemp.

“In Industrial Hemp does not contain intoxicating Psychoactive chemicals like Marijuana has. This means that our youths will not be interested to some this hemp and instead, due to its economic benefits, we highly anticipate our youths to be empowered economically through cultivation of this profitable cash crop.” Said Nyirenda 

He further indicated that in 36 countries worldwide where the hemp is cultivated, there are no cases of its abuse and has also acknowledged that there is need for more sensitization about the crop.

Clarke; Industrial Hemp is harmless 

Also, Invegrow Limited founder, Tanya Clarke concurred with Nyirenda that Industrial Hemp is harmless and is an economic viable crop. She said unlike its genetic cousin marijuana, hemp, which is grown for its seeds and fibers, contains only minuscule amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, an ingredient that creates a sense of euphoria when smoked.

She underlined that the hemp is grown as agricultural commodity used in a wide range of products that include, health food, biofuels, building materials, cosmetics, textiles and much more. She assured that allowing and regulating legal cultivation of hemp would create a development opportunity for many Malawians and stimulate new industries and increase the country’s export base.

Currently, Invegrow Limited is working with the Government at Chitedze Research Station to trial different cultivars of low THC hemp and demonstrate small- scale production of growing the Industrial Hemp and according to Clarke, the data of the results will be out by April this year.

Malawi has already shown interest to grow Industrial Hemp as a new cash crop with hopes that Malawi stands to greatly benefit from such a versatile crop however, currently, the laws indicate that although cannabis products could be produced in Malawi under licence, (being part of the former British empire that was traditionally a major consumer of hemp products), its cultivation is not legal.

Mphwiyo Shooting Case: Kasambara, Kumwembe Bail Reinstated

Kumwembe

Kasambara 

Lilongwe High Court has reinstated bail of the first accused McDonald Kumwembe and third accused Raphael Kasambara in the case of attempted murder trial of Paul Mphwiyo.

The two applied to the court last month that being in prison, they were failing to interview their witnesses and also failing to defend themselves because they were denied access to computers and internet where they could use to do some research.

Through their application the accused also told the court that having stayed long in custody they have been more cooperative so far.

"This court finds that it is appropriate that the accused bail be restored to its original status and that bail conditions will remain the same to where it was when the ruling was made of the revocation of the bail." ruled Mkandawire

But he has given them two more conditions in addition to the original bail conditions

"The other condition is that the accused should not grant interviews to media and should also display interest to see the case continued undertake and hereby abide with court to proceed deligently as defending this matter and not undertake delaying tactics" ordered Justice Mtambo

The first accused who is regarded as the shooter, McDonald Kumwembe , bail was revoked some five months ago while the third accused bail was revoked some four and half months ago following bail revocation application by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Mary Kachale that the accused were threatening the security of the Judge.

The first accused landed himself into prison following his application for the recusal of the Judge which revealed occasions of the Judge movements after a ruling which found him with case to answer was made.

While the third accused, a former Justice Minister, Raphael Kasambara bail was revoked on grounds that he was not showing interest to have the case concluded in good time through applications to have judge recused and that application made by the first accused was done by him.

The application to have their bail reinstalled was opposed by the state who argued by indicating that there were still threats to the Judge security.

However, when passing the ruling, Judge Michael Mtambo underlined that the overriding matter was to have he case concluded and not concerned over Judge security.

"This court is not concerned over the Judge Security matter because the issue of security is always is in God's hands, so the overriding matter is to see the case concluded in good time without any delays" said Mtambo before the ruling


"The accused persons remain innocent until they are found guilty and convicted" added Mtambo

Urban Music Artists To Voice Out Children, Youth Issues Through Timveni Child And Youth Media Project

KBG, Lawi, Faith Mussa, Classic, Jonathan Dube,
Sangie, Sam Nkagula & Kim (from Left to right)

Timveni Child and Youth Media Organisation has teamed up some renown urban artists in country to produce songs that reflect on the real issues affecting young people and children. The project, Amplifying Childrens Voices Through Participation is being implemented with funding from Plan Malawi.

Man Dies, 8 Survives Fatal Accident In Salima

Man has died while eight other minibus passengers survive a deadly accident after the vehicle they were in, overturned several times following a tyre burst on Saturday afternoon.

Salima Police officers identified the deceased as John Abbi aged 35 of Chimwere village T/A Tambala in Dedza district who is reported to have died on the spot for severe head injuries.

Salima district Police Public Relations Officer, Sub Inspector Gift CHitowe says the accident occurred around 13:40 hours at Mtonga Trading Centre along Salima-Lilongwe road 

“The vehicle was coming from Lilongwe direction heading Salima and upon arrival at Mtonga Trading Centre the rear right tyre of the min-bus bursted forcing the vehicle to overturn several times. Passengers were thrown out of the bus as it was overturning” explains Chitowe

He indicated that two surviving passengers, Alexander Katema aged 34 of Chitalo village T/A Kalembo in Balaka district and another unknown male passenger have sustained serious injuries and are admitted at Salima district Hospital while the other Six passengers sustained minor injuries. 

Chitowe said the motor vehicle, Toyota Hiace registration number SA 1824 was driven by Misiyasi Lefiyasi aged 32 of Maweru village T/A Chiwere on Dowa district.

MAM Investing In Irrigation Farming With Middle East Partners Support

Muslim Association of Malawi (MAM) is ready to invest in Irrigation farming with support from Middle East.

The local Islamic body disclosed this on Thursday at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe when meeting President Peter Mutharika to introduce their visitor from, Revival Islamic Heritage Society of Kuwait, Chairperson for Africa, Sheikh Dr. Jasim Al-Ainati. The Middle East delegate is in the country on distribution of relief and food items to flood victims and supervise projects they are funding trough MAM.

Chairperson for Trustees of MAM, Sheik Ali Kenedy, told president Mutharika that the visitation of their Middle East delegate will benefit both Malawi Muslims and Government 

“If government can ask anything, our delegate from Meddle East is ready to support”

It was later elaborated by Sheik Dinala Chabulika, Publicity Secretary for MAM after close discussions with President Mutharika that the Middle East delegate through Revival Islamic Heritage Society of Kuwait is willing to support Malawi in ending hunger by responding to Government desire to see more investments in the irrigation farming.

“As you are aware, Government is encouraging investments in irrigation farming so that we stop heavy reliance in the rain-fed agriculture, our delegate is willing to bring big investments in agriculture especially in irrigation farming across the country.” Confirmed Chabulika 

Earlier, President Peter Mutharika said he is delighted with long and steady cordial relationship that exists between MAM and Government.

He said current relationship is vital because both Government and MAM are working together supporting Malawians.

“My government and the Muslim Association of Malawi have long standing cordial relationship. Together we contribute to the fullness of humanity, by providing for the body and the soul. Let me assure you of my personal support, and that of my government to you, and that the good working relationship which has existed between my government and the Muslim community, will continue for the benefit of all Malawians,” he said.

“It is important that we hold our hands together for the development of this country” said Mutharika emphasizing that everyone must take part in providing solution to challenges facing the country.

In his remarks Sheikh Jasim Al-Ainati, commended good bilateral relations between Governments of Malawi and of Kuwait which he said is traced way back during Guulf wars when Malawi supported Kuwait earnestly.

He said it was through this background that Kuwait Government and the Revival Islamic Heritage Society of Kuwait did not hesitate to respond to floods and drought calamity faced by Malawi early January, 2015.

He therefore promised unwavering support to Malawi problems.

Sheikh Al-Ainati is visiting the country to distribute food and relief items to victims of floods across the country and to supervise all MAM projects supported by Revival Islamic Heritage Society of Kuwait which includes construction of Mosques, boreholes among others.

Malawi SDA Church Meets President Mutharika: Commit To Support Govt In Development

The Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church assures Government of total support to the development of Malawi.

The delegation of the church leadership was on Thursday meeting President Peter Mutharika at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe with an aim of introducing to him the newly transitioned leadership from SDA Malawi Union Mission to the SDA Malawi Conference Union.

When introducing the new leadership, President for the SDA Malawi Union Conference Pastor Frackson Kayoma said SDA church will continue to work with Government in various development projects that the church is implementing countrywide.

He said apart from spiritual services, the SDA church is supporting Government through various projects and programmes including offering education, health and women welfare and rights services.

Said Kayoma, "Seventh Day Adventist Church under this new leadership is committed to work with you in the development of this nation"

He assured the president of the church earnest prayers for the good leadership and health and also thanked Mutharika for guaranteeing the Church freedom of worship.

"We thank you, Your Excellency for providing us conducive environment of freedom of worship in this country. This assures us that we have a God fearing leader" he added

In his remarks president Mutharika commended the SDA church for its number of development projects which are supporting his government goals and aspirations.

"As Government, we will do all we can to improve the welfare of the people" he said

"Government recognises the role of the church for both spiritual and wellbeing of the people.

My Government will continue to create space for churches to worship freely"

He also congratulated the SDA Church for the transition from SDA Malawi Union Mission to the SDA Malawi Conference Union. He said this shows that the church is going on the path for self independence.

The SDA Church since  12th June 2015 transitioned from SDA Malawi Union Mission to the SDA Malawi Conference Union. The transition means that the SDA Church in Malawi is independent in its affairs.

President Mutharika Warns On Rampant Theft Of Maize In ADMARC Depots

President Peter Mutharika sent a warning on Wednesday against rampant theft on Government maize in ADMARC depots which has now created shortage of maize in most depots.

Reports indicate that some ADMARC officials are conniving together with some maize vendors to buy ADMARC maize at night and sell it to poor Malawians elsewhere at very exorbitant prices and in some places the  maize prices are as high as Fifteen Thousand kwacha per 50kg bag, and those who cannot find maize at ADMARC or fail to afford such exorbitant prices are left

starving.

"It is with considerable sadness that I address you today because what is happening to the maize at ADMARC depots is totally unacceptable." Said Mutharika

He expressed his deepest disappointment to hear reports of maize scarcity in ADMARC depots just few months after Government procured and received enough maize to cater for everyone’s needs particularly 2.8 million people who needs food support.

"Most sadly, I have been told that there is critical shortage of maize at many ADMARC depots. I am further informed

that some ADMARC officials are conniving together with some criminal maize vendors, who buy ADMARC maize at night and sell it to poor Malawians elsewhere at very exorbitant prices. In some places poor Malawians are

forced to buy this maize at Fifteen Thousand kwacha per 50kg bag, because

they cannot find maize at ADMARC. Consequently some of them are now

starving. This is outrageous and most criminal. It is moral

recklessness which I am not going to tolerate, or allow to continue." He said 

He then warn "I must

warn everyone strongly that such atrocities by criminal ADMARC maize vendors have got to stop immediately."

He said Police have been instructed "to investigate thoroughly, and take vigorous action." 

"If they catch you, you will go to jail. So you better stop right away." warns Mutharika further indicating that Police will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that these culprits do not return on the scene to steal more maize.

"I am appeal to all decent Malawians to examine their moral conscience and reflect deeply." He added

"I have repeatedly talked

about patriotism, hard work and integrity. Because of hard work and careful planning, my government bought this maize through ADMARC at much higher costs for you to buy only at Five Thousand Five Hundred Kwacha (MK5,500) per 50kg. In effect, these thieves are therefore stealing this maize from you. If you are as morally outraged as I am, don’t just sit and wait for what the government and police shall do for you. 

I want you to know that you can and must do something. The police are carrying out their duties to track and arrest these thieves. On your part, you know where these thieves

are and where they hide or sell the stolen maize. You know the ADMARC officials with whom they are conniving. I want you to report them all to the police immediately. The police will handle the information

confidentially so that these culprits will never know who turned them in." Appeals Mutharika then assured all Malawians that together with the help, police shall apprehend and arrest all the wrongdoers as a result this shall make maize to be

available in ADMARC depots for all who genuinely need to buy it.

Mutharika has also assured that ADMARC, will continue to replenish the maize stocks and there is additional money to buy more maize if needed. 

A total of 2.8 million people representing 17% of the country’s total population was declared to be at risk of hunger for the period of 2015/2016 following adverse weather conditions early 2015 which resulted in declined maize production and other food crops across the country.

An assessment by the Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC), carried out in June and July, 2015, the situation required humanitarian food to support the affected people was 124,183MT of maize equivalence.

Recent Government statement indicated that International Community assisted the country amounting to about US$91million but there was still a shortfall of US$55.378 million for hunger response. 

To stabilize the price of the commodity on the market through ADMARC the Malawi government also, using its own resources, bought 30,000MT of maize from Zambia for ADMARC at a cost of K2.8 billion, and 22,193MT of maize locally at a cost of K2.6 billion.