ADMARC Has Adequate Funding To Eradicate Food Shortages-Muthatika Tells Parliament

President Peter Mutharika has informed Parliament that in the 2016/2017 Financial year, Government has provided to Agriculture Development Market Corporation (ADMARC) with adequate financial resources to procure maize as one way of addressing food shortages.

Addressing Parliament today at the opening of Third Meeting in the 46th Session of Parliament to consider the 2016/2017 Budget Mutharika said over three million Malawians will be food insecure.

But he said to address food shortages in the 2016/2017 financial year, Government has provided ADMARC with financial resources to procure maize soon after harvest to ensure that markets are fully stocked with commercial maize. 

He further informed the House that Government has also invited interested private sector investors to undertake commercial irrigation farming in order to boost maize production beginning this year adding that the programme will also involve medium-scale farmers and smallholder farmers to either utilize their existing irrigation facilities or rent unutilized irrigable land. 

In his State of National Address titled "Towards Recovery and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development” President Mutharika also mentioned that Agriculture  be the highest priority sector because it will ensure both national and household food security as well as support agro industries. 

Mutharika also informed the August House that he has directed that FISP should undergo further reforms to ensure that the programme is efficiently and effectively implemented. In the end, FISP must be run like in the private sector.

He also said the economy is slowly stabilizing citing the resumption of the Extended Credit Facility with International Monetary Fund (IMF) as testimony that the austerity measures and fiscal discipline are bearing fruits.

He added Government is optimistic that Malawi can do better and further assured the House that "we expect to improve the macroeconomic indicators for our economy as" a result of various measures Government has put in place.

He then indicated that the economy is expected to register a real GDP growth rate of 5.1 percent in 2016, and 7.0 percent in 2017 while the annual average rate of inflation is expected to fall from 21 percent in 2015 to 19.8 percent in 2016, with further improvements in 2017 and beyond.

In the ending 2015/2016 financial year on macro-economic environment and reforms, Mutharika noted that the Budget performance has been influenced by shocks caused by pressures from the rising food prices, exacerbated by low production of maize in the 2015 growing season due to floods, dry spells and early cessation of rain in most parts of the country. 

He said these effects the economy grew by only 3.1 percent in 2015 despite an earlier projection of 5.4 percent growth rate while the rate of inflation remained high at 21.8 percent in 2015 as compared to the projected rate of 16.4 percent. 

He further informed the House that the Domestic debt stock increased to K526.4 billion in 2015 as compared to K487.0 billion at the end of 2014. However, he said domestic debt as a ratio of GDP dropped from 15.6 percent in 2014 to 8.9 percent in 2015.

The opened Third Meeting in the 46th Session of Parliament to consider the 2016/2017 Budget this Friday, May 20 will end on Friday, July 8, 2016.

Cashgate Case: Katengeza For Suspended Sentence As Judgement Coming Week's Time

Katengeza has heart problem 

Convict in the infamous Cash-gate scandal, Angela Katengeza has prayed for a suspended sentence citing her health problems.

Through lawyer, Gilbert Khonyongwa, told Judge Fiona Mwale on Thursday that Katengeza has heart problem and Hypertension, therefore custodial sentence will lead to deterioration of her health given poor condition in Malawi prisons.

Katengeza is answering theft and money laundering amounting to K105 million after the Baker Tilly forensic audit report revealed her Faith Construction Company was one of the companies that were dubiously paid by Government in 2013 without rendering any service.

The case resumed on Thursday at Lilongwe High Court for oral submissions on sentencing where the State objected the defense application by requesting court to apply custodial sentence because medical arrangements will be made while she is in prison. It also acknowledged to have taken note of the medical report on heart problem and not hypertension.

“We do not believe that that should compel the court to give her non-custodial sentence” observed state prosecutor, Reyneck Matemba while acknowledging that her health condition may have advantage to her when it comes to sentencing

The state application underlined that the court must “be cautious” on setting precedence to would be offenders who may in future use health condition as a tool to escape punishments like custodial sentence.

Matemba added that money laundering is a very serious offence and Katengeza should face custodial sentence just like other convicts who committed same cashgate offence and are now serving custodial sentences.

Katengeza who told court last year that she is a pastor maintains her no guilty plea saying she unknowingly got herself into the scam after Leonard Kalonga former Deputy Director at then Ministry of Tourism borrowed her company certificate. According to her, she innocently lent out her company certificate to  Mr. Kalonga who wanted to use her company name in getting 'construction projects that were available at his office' but due to working conditions he could not have used his own company certificate. Katengeza said was promised to receive a percentage for lending out her certificate and she did not know that he could use it to defraud Government.

Court found her guilty and was convicted for theft and money laundering.

During submissions on Thursday, State, conceded defense application for leniency on the fact that Katengeza got only K3 million from the K105 million deal since the arrangement was to pay her for lending out her company certificate.

As well state acknowledged and conceded defense submission on cooperation shown by Katengeza throughout the case. On this, State said the convict played a very significant role of giving new information to State which lead to self guilty plea of Leonard Kalonga, of which Kalonga was identified as a person who recruited 17 companies that were involved in the scam.

Matemba said “if it were not for Angela Katengeza decision to testify” by giving information on how she got herself into the scam “Mr. Leonard Kalonga would have not changed” from no guilty to plea of guilty.

“Her decision to tell her story totally changed trial of Leonard Kalonga” said Matemba adding that this may work to her advantage on sentencing 

But, the state disagreed with the defense that her cooperation was a sign of remorse. State indicated that it believes that Katengeza has never shown sign of remorse by maintaining plea of not guilty and distancing herself to the criminal activity which she participated knowingly. 

The state also asked court not to consider Katengeza as a responsible person for her family, a person with good character, and that has lost her business following the case.

“She doesn’t have good character as both pastor and block leader” ruled out Matemba adding a responsible person would have realised that it was a criminal activity and she was supposed not to take part

Matemba also said her conduct does not show that she is "honesty” person that her honesty ended the moment she accepted to participate in a crime of defrauding Government.

Further, responding to defense complaint about the lengthy period of the trial, Matemba said “none of us have control over that and it is a natural consequence of indulging in criminal activity.”

In their submission, the defense have among other things said Katengeza is a first time offender who had no intention to participate in the scam as she had no plans at all  to steal from Government and that she was exploited and used by being dragged in the criminal activity.

"She did not know for example that lending company certificate to fellow contractor was unlawful." Added counsel Khonyongwa in the submission.

Court has adjourned and will set new date in two weeks time for judgment

This Is How Malawi National Budget Will Tackle Food Situation

A Sneak Peek Into 2016/2017 Budget 

The 2016/2017 National Budget will have more cuts on some expenditures to allow more funds to be used to subdue the hunger situation the country is facing.

Goodall Gondwe

Goodall Gondwe, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning is expected to present the Budget in few weeks time as Third Meeting in the 46th Session of Parliament to consider the 2016/2017 Budget begins this Friday, May 20 and will end on Friday, July 8, 2016.

Malawi requires close to 1.3 million metric tons of staple food following the persistent drought which has reduced the 2016 maize production by 12 percent less than previous season.

“This time as far as food is concerned we have three problems” he said mentioning low food production as first problem

The second problem he said Malawi will probably be forced “to go much further perhaps even outside Africa to import food” because neighboring countries like Zambia including South Africa that used to sell food to Malawi when faced with similar situation are also short of food this year.

“The third problem is that because people have not produced enough food they haven’t had much to sell and therefore they do not have enough money in the pocket. When we bring food in the country it will have to be sold and our people may not have enough money” he said indicating “We will have to find ways of getting money to the rural areas for example the budget is going to be concerned with that also.”

“Well, we are going to do something about all these three problems; there are problems that have to be solved, it means also that some of the things that we always do we may have to reduce a little so that we can get food for people to eat”

Malawi Govt Gets Food Worth US$ 10 Million, 100 Vehicles From Chinese Govt

In showing good relation, the Chinese Government on Wednesday signed with Malawi the provision of humanitarian food and grant of 100 vehicles to Malawi Government.

China will provide rice worth 10 Million USD to Malawi for humanitarian food response to people who are experiencing food shortage due to dry spell caused by El Nino while the vehicles are to be used in the Malawi Police Service to combat crime.

Wang Shi Ting

 

The Chinese Ambassador to Malawi, His Excellency Wang Shi Ting made the signing at Capital Hill in Lilongwe together with Goodall Gondwe, Malawi’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning.

Malawians Are Free To Express Their Opinion- World Press Freedom Panelists

Five panelists for this years World Press Freedom Day celebrations have concurred  that Malawians are now enjoying freedom of expression.

Each year on 3rd May, Journalists commemorate World Press Freedom Day but this years celebrations took place on Saturday 7th May 2016 in Mangochi.

During the debate titled "Freedom of Expression In Malawi; Progress Challenges, and Way Forward, panelists comprised of executive member for Media Institute for Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi chapter and Nation Publication Journalist, Suzgo Khunga, Elard Manjawila from University of Malawi-The Polytechnic, Emmanuel Kondowe from UNESCO, Edward Monster, US Embassy Public Affairs, and Justin Saidi, Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications Technology and Civic Education both agreed that for the past few years Malawians are freely expressing themselves on various matters.

Elard Manjawila said Malawians at the moment are enjoying freedom of expression and that they are able to freely express themselves in various matters and this was later echoed by Sugzo Khunga who who agreed that indeed freedom of expression which is enshrined in the Constitution of Republic of Malawi is guaranteed in the country.

"Yes, am truly impressed with freedom of expression in Malawi" added Edward Monster, of US Embassy Public Affairs who cited that during his stay in the country he has seen and heard Malawians freely speaking to issues that matter to them unlike other countries where citizens are being prevented from expressing themselves.

On challenges and way forward, panelists highlighted existence of several laws that still restricts Journalists from conducting their job without fear and have asked Government to among others enact Access to Information Bill (ATI) and also called upon Malawians to take responsibility of safeguarding the rights and freedom of expression.

Justin Saidi, Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications Technology and Civic Education who agreed with fellow panelists of existence of freedom of expression in the country further mentioned that the country is "making headway" in terms of guaranteeing freedom of expression.

Saidi said there is political will and Government will continue to ensure that Malawians are enjoying freedom of expression. 

He indicated that for the first time and after long time, Government has now taken the ATI to Parliament which is a sign that Government wants Malawians to enjoy freedom of expression as well as access to information from Government.

He further called upon Journalists to work together with Government while assuring that Government will not no intimidate Journalists.

Before holding debate, Journalists drawn from across the country held freedom march from Mangochi filling station to Fort Johnston at the roundabout near Lake Malawi Bridge, the event which attracted attention from onlookers along the streets.

Malawi Ready “To Deal Accordingly” With Albino Attackers

President Peter Mutharika has warned people masterminding barbaric attacks and killings of people with albinism that they will be dealt with “accordingly” if they don’t stop the malpractice.

He was speaking at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe on Thursday evening when he met with the Association of People with Albinism in Malawi (APAM)

“I want to assure you that my Government will not tolerate this malpractice, which has brought fear and sense of insecurity among persons with albinism, their relatives and friends. This is evil, and a threat to the most fundamental human rights in our constitution. And we will deal accordingly with those that are associated with this barbaric act.” Warned Mutharika

“I would like to repeat my warning to would-be offenders: Stop abducting, maiming, killing or exhuming remains of people with albinism. Do not even think or plan anything in that line. You will be sorry for the rest of your life.” Emphasized Mutharika

This was a very significant encounter with the group in terms of discussing and map the way forward in protecting and promoting the life and rights of people with albinism who are being attacked for the misbelief that their body parts brings fortune.

At the very beginning the Malawi leader said the meeting with APAM was “serious business” and a clear testimony of the commitment that the Government and the Association have, to protect and promote the life and rights of people with albinism.

President Mutharika who reminded APAM that he has been making several pronouncements before on the matter, said the audience with them was mainly seeking to hear directly from APAM about their experiences, views on government efforts so far, and proposals that Government must execute in order to end this barbaric act.

“It is disheartening to learn of the rising incidences of abductions, killings and exhumations of the remains of people with albinism.” He said “Two months ago, we were talking of about 50 cases. Today, we have 66 cases recorded, for abductions, trespassing of graveyards, being found with human bones, suicide, assault of bodily harm, conduct likely to cause breach of peace, and killings of people with albinism.” Recounts Mutharika 

Mutharika indicated that as of Wednesday, now total registered cases of albino attacks is at 66, whereby there has been; 14 Kidnappings, 6 Killing, 3 Missing Persons, 28 Tampering with graveyard, 2 Assault of bodily hard, 1 Conduct Likely to cause breach of peace and 12 Found with human bones.

The President further mentioned that police investigations have shown that almost every district people with albinism are living in danger unlike in the past where the cases were happening in few districts.

“But Government has intensified the fight, and has so far arrested 69 suspects, and is prosecuting them.” Said Mutharika and thanked all who tipped off police about the suspects then called upon all Malawians to be vigilant and report any suspected cases to the nearest police

“We should all be our brother’s keeper.”  He appealed but reminded people not to use mob justice once they apprehend suspects by urging, “Please report them to police.” 

He in the same vein urged Traditional Leaders and all Malawians to protect persons with albinism “Let us work with the police to establish community policing in our areas and report to the police any suspicious characters. Let me also ask the Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare and her counterparts to urgently engage the Traditional Healers Association of Malawi to come up with ways on how to eliminate these atrocities of persons with albinism.”

President Mutharika mentioned that Government is taking serious steps against this criminal behavior and added “we are overcoming it.”

He mentioned that Government has intensified surveillance and investigations, and also intensified working relationship with the APAM. 

“I have also set up a technical Committee which will monitor the implementation of the initiatives that Government has put in place to curb the malpractices. The Committee comprises officials from Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Office of the President and Cabinet, Police, Intelligence, Ministries of Home Affairs and Internal Security and Justice and Constitutional Affairs. The Committee will report to my office on the progress being made.”

While thanking Police for the job well done so far in apprehending the culprits, Mutharika also asked them to do more. 

“Abducting, maiming, killing or exhuming the remains of people with albinism is criminal. Treat the suspects accordingly. I know you have secured 12 successful convictions and 2 acquittals. Let’s keep aiming higher.” He urged then also commended the Judiciary for prioritizing cases, and encouraged them to consider giving the stiffest sentences to the culprits

Mr. Bonface Massah, President of the Association of People with Albinism in Malawi (APAM) who spoke on behalf of the Trustees of the APAM and members of the delegation said people with albinism are in danger.

“It is clear that we are still living in great fear and it is clear that we are still facing a lot of challenges in terms of stigma and discrimination and it is really true that until today Malawi hasn’t had a perfect solution to end this attack.” Said Massah who hoped that the recommendations from the meeting will address the current challenges

He said this is a worrisome situation and warned that with current population of people with albinism and current pattern of attacks if nothing is done to stem the tide, then all people born with albinism faces risk of systematic extinction in next ten years. 

He also expressed gratitude with Government decision to establish a special taskforce on the matter “We hope it will bring out key changes in the lives of persons with albinism. For the past years it is very clear we have failed as a nation but we believe this is a new chapter for all people with albinism in Malawi to really reflect on the current situation and immediately have interventions that will address our current challenges.”

Before the meeting was held in camera, President Mutharika also announced that his Government will, on 13th June this year, join the rest of the world in commemorating the International Albinism Awareness Day, in line with the United Nations General Assembly resolution 69/170 of 18 December 2014.

Malawi is registering frequent reports of attacks, abductions and killings of Persons with albinism and even the remains are robbed from graveyards. These atrocities occur due to the misbelief that their body parts can grant benefits such as wealth and good luck when used in witchcraft. The body parts allegedly sell for high prices, on the black market.

United Nations Independent Expert on the rights of persons with albinism, Ikponwosa Ero who recently paid visit to Malawi to assess situation of people with albinism from April 18 to 29, 2016, requested Government to put its efforts into action if the battle to end attacks and killings of people with albinism is to be won.

“The situation of people with albinism in Malawi is critical, this is not business as usual it requires urgent reaction.” Noted Ero and called on African leaders to treat issue of albino killings just like they are treating issues of saving elephants from extinction

Ero further encouraged Malawi to focus on the investigation to identify the markets for body parts and final recipients including addressing the root cause of these atrocities.

St. Stephen In Area 12 Preaches Love: Feasts With Maula Prisoners

Families from St. Stephen, a Catholic Church small Christian community from area 12 in Lilongwe brought smile among women and sick inmates at Maula prison following the prayers and meals they provided to the inmates.

Saturday’s visit to one of the congested jails in Malawi located in Lilongwe was part of observance of Jubilee of Mercy called by Pope Francis beginning December 8, 2015 until November 20, 2016. The jubilee directs Church attention and actions on mercy so that the lives of the faithful better radiate and reflect the tender love of God and to seek to draw others into the experiencing that love and mercy.

The St. Stephen community which is part of St. Patrick Parish in Area 18 brought to the inmates a message of mercy, hope and forgiveness before serving a dietary meal to more than 365 inmates among them 65 female prisoners currently at Maula and 300 prisoners receiving various medical treatments at the prison including those on Tuberculosis (TB) treatment. 

Speaking in an interview after prayers and lunch, Mrs Christine Kapira Chingondole Secretary, for St. Stephen said they wanted to share happiness with inmates through Gospel and feasting together while showing them that they are not abandoned society.

“As group we agreed to do some works of mercy with focus on people in prisons and hospitals.” She said, “Having learnt that sick prisoners in adult section and female prisoners are continuously experiencing food shortages, we saw it fit to come and eat with them while sharing the Gospel.”

“We shared them the Gospel about the Prodigal Son and the Loving Father. Actually the main message was to remind them that even though we commit sin sometimes, but God continuously forgive us. So we must confess our sins and seek for God forgiveness and God is always ready to cleans our transgressions” she said 

The group also proclaimed hope to inmates that they are people like anybody else although they live in prison due to various factors and word of assurance that communities are ready to welcome them back once their prison term ends.  

“We have seen their growing desire to hear the Gospel, so, we will continue paying them a visit.” Said Mrs. Chingondole adding that they also will look at ways of how they can assist about six needy children who were born in prison and also Cell 12 inmates them TB patients who do not get visits regularly.

Inspector Billy Kamphambale- Acting Station Officer for Maula Prison said prisoners are mostly in dire need of food and other things like soap.

He then expressed his profound gratitude for the visit of St. Stephen to share the Gospel and have lunch with the prisoners. 

“We are very happy that families from St. Stephen came to share the Gospel with the inmates here to help them in the spiritual growth as well to give them food for their physical being. We really appreciate this noble gesture and we look forward to see them continue helping our prisoners.”

One of the female prisoners who spoke at the lunch said she was glad that she has eaten nice meal that she misses since her imprisonment and expressed desire to see St. Stephen coming back to cheer them up.