The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) held a press conference in Blantyre where its officials addressed various national issues.
Before outlining the objectives of the meeting, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa urged Minister of Finance Joseph Mwanamvekha to carefully consider the concerns being raised by the public regarding taxation measures outlined in the recently presented economic plan.
Namiwa
Namiwa emphasized that citizens are closely watching how the government handles issues related to tax policy and expect transparency and fairness in implementation.
He also called on other government leaders to respond proactively to public concerns and to demonstrate accountability in their respective sectors.
Additionally, Namiwa highlighted that Malawians are keenly awaiting updates and a thorough investigation into the recent plane crash incident, stressing the need for timely and credible information.
The press conference reflected CDEDI’s commitment to ensuring that the government remains accountable to the people and that national policies are implemented in the interest of all citizens.
Through such engagements, the organization aims to strengthen democratic processes and promote economic development by fostering open dialogue between citizens and policymakers.
CDEDI’s officials concluded by encouraging the public to remain informed and actively participate in discussions surrounding government decisions that impact their lives.
Political commentator has responded to recent remarks by Laura Miti, who argued that “there is no justifiable reason for Tasila Lungu to stay away from Parliament.”
The analyst observed that while Miti’s statement reflects a common expectation that elected officials should attend parliamentary sessions, it is important to consider the broader context surrounding Lungu’s absence.
Tasila Lungu
They noted that parliamentary attendance is a constitutional duty, but public officials may have legitimate reasons, including health, diplomatic obligations, or constituency work, that sometimes prevent them from being physically present.
However, the analyst emphasized that continuous absence without clear communication undermines public confidence and raises questions about accountability and representation.
In this case, the lack of a detailed explanation from Tasila Lungu has fueled debates among political observers and the general public regarding his commitment to parliamentary responsibilities.
The commentator further suggested that political figures have a responsibility to be transparent about their reasons for missing sessions to maintain credibility and trust with their constituents.
They also warned that ignoring parliamentary duties could set a dangerous precedent if left unchecked, potentially eroding the effectiveness of legislative oversight.
Ultimately, the analyst concluded that while Miti’s call for Lungu’s attendance is understandable, it should be balanced with an understanding of any legitimate obligations that may require temporary absence.
The response highlights ongoing tensions in Zambian politics regarding the balance between accountability, transparency, and the practical demands placed on public officials.
As the debate continues, citizens and political analysts alike are calling for clear communication from all leaders to ensure that parliamentary duties are taken seriously while addressing broader national responsibilities.
Leaders from Africa and Europe have converged in Luanda, Angola, for the 7th African Union–European Union Summit, launching the event with a strong appeal for deeper collaboration, stability, and shared progress.
Bringing together representatives from all 55 African Union nations and all 27 European Union member states, the summit is being held under the banner Promoting Peace and Prosperity through Effective Multilateralism. Malawi is being represented by its Vice President, Dr Jane Ansah.
Participants were greeted with performances that celebrated the cultural vibrancy and artistic heritage of Angola, setting a spirited tone for the high-level meeting.
Ansah in Angola
Angolan President João Lourenço, who is also the current Chairperson of the AU, opened the proceedings by reflecting on the significance of November, a month in which Angola celebrates 50 years of independence. He said hosting the summit during such a landmark moment underscores Africa’s expanding influence across global platforms.
President Lourenço explained that the gathering provides an essential opportunity for the two continents to reassess their relationship and strengthen cooperation in vital sectors such as security, trade, investment, and climate resilience. He reiterated that peace and stability form the backbone of economic advancement and must remain at the forefront of AU–EU engagement.
He added that the partnership offers both continents a chance to reflect on their historical ties while working towards a more secure and prosperous shared future.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reinforced the EU’s determination to boost economic cooperation with Africa, confirming that €150 billion has been allocated for African investment projects up to 2027.
She noted that Europe is prioritising major infrastructure initiatives designed to improve connectivity, including enhanced digital links and transport routes. Among these efforts is the development of a trade corridor to support the movement of critical minerals from Africa to global markets.
Von der Leyen said such partnerships have helped African businesses upgrade their production standards and expand their presence in international markets, turning cross-continental trade into a tool for domestic economic growth.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres characterised the AU–EU partnership as a central force in shaping an emerging multipolar world order. He highlighted the potential of the relationship to address historical imbalances and support a more equitable global economic system.
Guterres stressed the importance of ensuring developing nations have greater influence in global financial institutions, ending cycles of unsustainable debt, and enabling development banks to extend more meaningful support.
Throughout its two-day duration, the summit will consider ways to advance cooperation in areas such as peacebuilding, governance, multilateral diplomacy, economic development, and migration.
With these discussions under way, the Luanda summit is widely expected to chart a renewed and more balanced course for Africa–Europe relations in the years ahead.
Standard Bank Malawi has expressed interest in strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Labour following a courtesy call made on the Minister of Labour, Hon. Joel Chigona, MP, this morning.
Led by Public Sector Manager Mwayi Kamwendo, the bank’s delegation discussed potential partnerships aimed at enhancing skills development and supporting young people entering the world of work.
The talks centred on how the financial institution can complement government efforts in empowering TEVET graduates and strengthening technical training institutions across the country.
Kamwendo and Chigona
During the meeting, Hon. Chigona urged Standard Bank to consider establishing start-up loan facilities tailored for TEVET graduates. He emphasised that many skilled young people struggle to progress in their trades due to lack of capital.
“Our job market cannot absorb everyone. Loan facilities would enable our graduates to grow and excel in their respective trades,” he said.
The Minister further appealed to the bank to support technical colleges that are fully constructed but not yet operational, suggesting that the provision of essential training equipment through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives would help unlock their potential.
In response, Standard Bank assured the Ministry that it will assess the proposed collaboration areas. The bank expressed willingness to explore support programmes in entrepreneurship development, graduate internships, and the rollout of its Financial Fitness Academy a programme designed to enhance financial literacy and foster a culture of savings and investment among youth.
The meeting marked a promising step toward strengthening public private partnerships aimed at empowering Malawi’s future workforce.
Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation, Joseph Mwanamvekha, has announced that the government has implemented measures to address the root causes of food insecurity in Malawi.
He made the remarks in Lilongwe when Press Corporation handed over K300 million to the government to support its Lean Season Food Response Programme.
Mwanamvekha explained that the government is planning to scale up irrigation and provide subsidized farm inputs, among other initiatives, to build the resilience of households affected by food insecurity each year.
He commended Press Corporation for the support, emphasizing that partnerships between government and the private sector are critical in addressing national challenges.
The Minister assured Press Corporation that the funds will be utilized transparently and efficiently to meet the intended needs of vulnerable communities.
Board Chairperson of Press Corporation, Randson Mwadiwa, said their contribution underscores the importance of collaboration to strengthen the country’s resilience and capacity to overcome climate-related challenges.
Mwadiwa reaffirmed Press Corporation’s commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing and dignity of Malawians through interventions such as this.
The K300 million donation from Press Corporation is in addition to a similar contribution made by National Bank, bringing the total support for the Lean Season Food Response Programme to K600 million.
This partnership between government and private sector actors is expected to enhance food security, reduce vulnerability during lean periods, and strengthen community resilience against climate and economic shocks.
The government and its partners continue to call for sustained collaboration to ensure that Malawi can effectively address recurring food insecurity challenges.
