Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has instructed the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) to begin preparations for the withdrawal of its troops from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following the deaths of three soldiers in combat.
The Malawi troops are part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), a regional effort aimed at assisting the country in dealing with armed insurgents. The military mission was extended by SADC late last year.
The SAMIDRC mission was intended to include 5,000 troops from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania.
South Africa, which leads the mission, was to deploy 2,900 troops, with the remaining forces shared between Malawi and Tanzania. However, the exact number of troops currently deployed is unclear.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, 5 February, the Government of Malawi confirmed plans to withdraw its troops from the DRC. It said:
<blockquote>
President Chakwera has ordered the MDF (Malawi Defense Force) commander to begin preparations for the withdrawal of Malawian troops… to honour the declaration of a ceasefire by the warring parties there and to pave way for their planned negotiations towards a lasting peace.
</blockquote>
Malawi’s Information Minister, Moses Kunkuyu, told the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0m1jmdr4jgo">BBC</a> Newsday programme that the planned withdrawal was being made in good faith.
He explained that a meeting of southern African leaders last week in Tanzania, held alongside the Africa Energy Summit, resulted in a resolution calling for a ceasefire from all parties in the conflict, to create an opportunity for peaceful negotiations. Said Kunkuyu:
<blockquote>
It is pursuant to that agreement that the president of Malawi has seen it fit to contribute to the peace-building effort by withdrawing troops from the region so that there is that peaceful negotiation.
</blockquote>
He, however, did not specify when the troops would leave but said only the “operational aspects” remained to be finalised.
Kunkuyu added that the decision had been communicated to the president of the DR Congo and the Southern African bloc.
The Malawian president has faced pressure to withdraw the country’s forces from DR Congo following the deaths of peacekeepers.
South Africa has encountered similar pressure, but President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged to maintain the presence of South African troops in DR Congo, saying they are part of the SAMIDRC mission, which has set operational timeframes and an end date.
Malawi, Tanzania, and South Africa have all lost soldiers in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after engaging with the M23 rebel group in the eastern region.
In the meantime, a rebel alliance, including M23 fighters, has declared a ceasefire starting on Tuesday for humanitarian reasons.

Pindula News

Malawi's President told soldiers to come back from Congo because 3 got killed. Malawi helps Congo with army group, but now they are leaving. Leaders want peace talks, so soldiers must go. Other countries also lost soldiers in Congo fighting M23 rebels. Rebels stopped fighting for now to help people. Peace is important.

Malawi Orders Troop Withdrawal From DRC After Three Soldiers Killed

More than 2,000 Mozambican families sought refuge in Malawi last week as violent protests erupted over a disputed election on October 9, resulting in dozens of deaths.
Monitoring group Plataforma Decide reported that the death toll had reached 125 since the court’s decision and 252 since late October.
On Christmas Day, over 1,500 prisoners escaped from Maputo Central Prison, taking advantage of the national protests following the disputed polls.
According to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/mozambicans-flee-neighbouring-malawi-amid-post-election-unrest-2024-12-27/">Reuters</a>, some businesses, including banks, were closed in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, on Friday, and patrols were set up in some areas.
A senior Malawian official said that as of Wednesday, 2,182 Mozambican households fleeing the violence had crossed into Malawi’s Nsanje district, which borders Mozambique.
In a letter to the country’s commissioner for refugees seen by Reuters, Nsanje district commissioner Dominic Mwandira described the situation as dire, with people urgently requiring humanitarian assistance.
Protests in Mozambique intensified after the Constitutional Council announced on December 23 that FRELIMO’s presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, secured approximately 65% of the vote, a decrease from the 70% reported by the electoral commission in October.
The Council also adjusted the number of parliamentary seats awarded to FRELIMO, though the reasons for these changes were not disclosed.
Mozambique’s main opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane, who the Constitutional Council said came second in the presidential election and who rejects the results, has called for more protests from his supporters but urged them not to loot or damage infrastructure.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Thousands of families from Mozambique ran away to Malawi because of fighting after the election. Many people died. Some prisoners escaped during the chaos. In Mozambique, some businesses closed, and there were patrols. Lots of families crossed into Malawi and need help. The election results changed, causing more problems. The opposition leader wants more protests but no violence. People are worried and need help.

Over 2,000 Mozambican Families Flee To Malawi Amid Post-Election Violence

Former Warriors coach Kalisto Pasuwa has been appointed as the interim coach of Malawi’s senior men’s national football team, Flames, just three days after the departure of Patrick Mabedi.
The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) confirmed Pasuwa’s appointment in a statement released on Friday.
This decision comes after a virtual meeting held earlier that day, during which FAM ratified its Emergency Committee’s recommendation to part ways with Mabedi following a series of disappointing results.
Pasuwa, who is also the coach of FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, will now lead the Flames as they look to turn their fortunes around. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The committee resolved to approve the recommendation to appoint an interim technical panel comprising Kalisto Pasuwa as Head of Technical Panel, Peter Mponda as First Assistant Coach, Prichard Mwansa as Second Assistant Coach, Kinnah Phiri and Young Chimodzi as Technical advisers.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://malawi24.com/2024/11/01/pasuwa-named-flames-interim-coach-reunites-with-mponda-as-deputy/">Malawi24</a>,  Pasuwa is set to take over as Malawi’s permanent coach after the team completes its remaining two games in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
FAM dismissed Mabedi on Tuesday following a disappointing qualifying campaign, where the team lost all four matches.
Mabedi’s record included a 3-2 defeat at home to Burundi, a 3-1 loss away to Burkina Faso, and two back-to-back defeats to Senegal—first losing 4-0 in the first leg and then suffering a last-minute 1-0 defeat at Bingu National Stadium.
Pasuwa has achieved cult-hero status at FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, having led the team to five consecutive domestic league championships since joining the club in 2018.
His impressive track record also includes nine consecutive league titles, dating back to his time with Dynamos, where he won four titles between 2011 and 2014.
He will begin his tenure with an away match against Burundi in a dead-rubber fixture for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers on November 15, 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kalisto Pasuwa is now the new coach of Malawi's national football team, Flames. He is in charge after Patrick Mabedi left due to bad results. The Football Association of Malawi chose Pasuwa as the interim coach. Pasuwa has won many titles with other teams and is expected to do well with Flames. He will start his job with a match against Burundi in November. If he does well, he might become the permanent coach. This is good news for Malawi's football team as they hope to improve under Pasuwa's leadership.

Kalisto Pasuwa Named Malawi Caretaker Coach

A Zimbabwean pilot, identified as Captain Fungai Majakwara (50), tragically lost his life in a plane crash in Malawi on Tuesday, August 20.
The aircraft, a Cessna C210 (registration number 7QPFU), is typically designed to carry six passengers.
Initial reports suggested that the plane was owned by a Zimbabwean company, but it has since been confirmed that it belonged to the Malawian company Nyasa Express.
The plane went down on the shores of Lake Malawi, and the bodies of both the pilot and a passenger were recovered on Wednesday, according to Nkhotakota District Commissioner Ben Matengeni Tonho.
The aircraft was carrying Capt. Majakwara, two passengers, crashed in Nkhotakota District, approximately 200 km northeast of the capital, Lilongwe.
Capt. Majakwara served as the managing director of Nyasa Express and was an experienced pilot.
A 24-year-old Dutch passenger, Charlotte Lemstra, was rescued by fishermen and is currently in the hospital receiving treatment for minor injuries.
Lemstra reported that the pilot lost consciousness mid-flight during their journey from Nkhotakota to Liwonde, a township about 235 km south of Lilongwe. The crash occurred just 45 minutes before their scheduled landing.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zim-pilot-dies-in-horror-crash/">The Herald</a>, a family member shared that Majakwara is survived by his wife and three children, who reside in Lilongwe.
According to Nyasa Times, the aircraft departed from Tongole Airfield in Nkhotakota Game Reserve on Tuesday at 2:06 PM, en route to Liwonde National Park.
The last known satellite signal placed the aircraft about 70 kilometres south of Nkhotakota, near Lake Malawi’s shoreline.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A pilot from Zimbabwe named Captain Fungai Majakwara died in a plane crash in Malawi. The plane was a Cessna C210 which is supposed to carry six passengers but crashed on Lake Malawi. The pilot and a passenger died, while another passenger, Charlotte Lemstra, was rescued with minor injuries. The crash happened while flying from Nkhotakota to Liwonde. The pilot, Capt. Majakwara, was a managing director of Nyasa Express. He left behind a wife and three kids. The plane disappeared from the satellite signal near Lake Malawi.

Zimbabwean Pilot Killed In Malawian Plane Accident

Prominent Zimbabwean preacher Walter Magaya has unveiled plans to construct a new stadium, dubbed “The Heart Stadium 3”, in Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi.
Magaya, who also owns the Premier Soccer League (PSL) club Yadah Football Club, recently inaugurated a similar stadium structure in Maputo, Mozambique, which he named “The Heart Stadium 2”.
The self-styled prophet has already built a stadium in Waterfalls, Harare, called “The Heart Stadium”, which was commissioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
This week, Magaya presided over a groundbreaking ceremony for the Malawi project, which will see the new stadium constructed at the Chipala Community Ground site.
The ceremony was attended by Lilongwe Mayor Esther Sagawa, several government officials, community leaders, and thousands of local villagers.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200029336/magayas-chibuku-heart-break-as-he-takes-benevolence-to-malawi">NewsDay</a> from Malawi, Magaya expressed his commitment to continuing his football development efforts across the region.  He said:
<blockquote>
This is our small part of ensuring that every child is allowed to showcase their football skills. The children can only excel if they are exposed to the right facilities.
We will continue to make these kinds of investments in the country if the conditions allow us and also expand further in the region.
We have done a ground-breaking ceremony for Heart Stadium 3 here in Chipala Community Ground, Ngomani Village, the traditional area of Chitikula.
Chief Gomanh received our donation. The whole community was present as we blessed the community.
</blockquote>
Magaya said was committed to renovating two ageing stadiums in Zimbabwe – the Chibuku Stadium in Chitungwiza and the Gwanzura Stadium in Highfield, Harare – in order to bring them up to international standards.
However, Magaya’s plans to refurbish these two facilities have so far been frustrated by administrative bottlenecks imposed by the Chitungwiza and Harare City councils, who are the respective proprietors of the Chibuku and Gwanzura stadiums.
When asked why he had decided to develop stadium facilities in other countries, such as Malawi and Mozambique, while stadiums in his own country remained dilapidated, Magaya responded:
<blockquote>
Malawi approached me and moved very fast with the paperwork. It’s not the same with our councils. I still want to build Chibuku Stadium or Gwanzura Stadium if permitted.
Constructing Chibuku Stadium remains one of my top priorities and I pray that one day, my government will allow me to do that since my last efforts were shot down.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Magaya is set to host the inaugural edition of the “Magaya Sports Tournament” this Saturday at his Yadah Complex facility.
The event will feature competitions in both football and netball, with teams vying for honours.
The tournament organizers have confirmed that all participating teams will receive a branded kit.
The winning football team will be awarded a cash prize of US$1,000, while the netball champions will receive US$500.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Magaya Unveils Plans To Construct Stadiums In Mozambique And Malawi

The President of Malawi, Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, has directed that the nation observe twenty-one (21) days of mourning in honour of the late Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and other officials who died in a plane crash on Monday.
Chilima and nine other people died after a Defence Forces Aircraft they were travelling on crashed in the Chikangawa Forest on Monday morning.
The Vice President, former first lady Shanil Muluzi nee Dzimbiri, Lukas Kapheni, Chisomo Chimaneni, Gloria Mtukule, Dan Kanyemba and Abdul Lapukeni, as well as Colonel Sambalopa, Major Flora Selemani and Major Aidin from MDF, who were operating the plane, perished when the aircraft came down while en route to Lilongwe, the capital.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 11 June, the Malawian Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Colleen Zamba said the period of mourning runs from 11 June to 01 July 2024.
Chakwera has also directed that all flags be flown at half-mast throughout the period of mourning
On Monday night, President Chakwera said the plane landed at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) at 7:05 AM from Mzuzu to pick up Chilima who was to attend the funeral ceremony of the late Ralph Kasambara, a lawyer who also served as Attorney General and Justice Minister.
The plane left KIA at 9:17 am with Chilima and nine other people and was expected to touch down at Mzuzu International Airport at 10:02 AM.
He said the plane could not land in Mzuzu because of bad weather. He added, “However they lost contact with the plane after its return, on its way to Lilongwe.”
The relationship between Chakwera and the late Chilima had often strained since they assumed power.
Initially, the two political leaders formed an election alliance to secure victory in the 2020 presidential election.
Chakwera, representing the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), and Chilima, from the United Transformation Movement (UTM), ran on a joint ticket, which significantly contributed to their electoral success against former President Peter Mutharika.
However, tensions escalated when Chakwera’s government accused Chilima of corruption in 2022. 
The courts dismissed the charges in May 2024, with many believing they were politically motivated to prevent Chilima from challenging Chakwera in the 2025 elections.
The dismissal of corruption charges paved the way for Chilima to run for the presidency against Chakwera in the upcoming elections.
Chilima had previously claimed that both men had agreed Chakwera would serve only one term, but the president allegedly reneged on that agreement, leading the former to label it as political fraud.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Malawi Announces 21 Days Of Mourning For Late Vice President

Malawian Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine other people have been confirmed dead after a Defence Forces Aircraft they were travelling on crashed in the Chikangawa Forest on Monday morning.
Chilima, former first lady Shanil Dzimbiri, Lukas Kapheni, Chisomo Chimaneni, Gloria Mtukule, Dan Kanyemba and Abdul Lapukeni, as well as Colonel Sambalopa, Major Flora Selemani and Major Aidin from MDF, who were operating the plane, perished when the aircraft came down while en route to Lilongwe, the capital.
In a statement issued this Tuesday, the Malawian Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Colleen Zamba confirmed the tragedy. He said:
<blockquote>
The Office of the President and Cabinet wishes to inform the general public that the search and rescue operation for the Malawi Defense Force Aircraft that went missing on Monday, 10th June 2024, has regretfully ended in tragedy.
The aircraft, which was carrying the Vice President, the Right Honourable Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, and nine others, was found this morning in the Chikangawa forest. Unfortunately, all on board have perished in the crash.
The search and rescue operation, which was launched immediately after the aircraft went off the radar, has been conducted by various agencies, including the Malawi Defense Force, the Police Service, and the Department of Civil Aviation.
His Excellency Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi, has been informed of the tragic outcome and has expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the Vice President and all those who have lost their lives in this tragic incident.
The President has declared a national day of mourning and has ordered that all flags fly at half-mast from today until the day of the funeral.
The Office of the President and Cabinet will provide further updates as more information becomes available.
</blockquote>
Addressing the nation late on Monday night, President Chakwera said the plane landed at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) at 7:05 AM from Mzuzu to pick up Chilima who was to attend the funeral ceremony of the late Ralph Kasambara, a lawyer who also served as Attorney General and Justice Minister.
The plane left KIA at 9:17 am with Chilima and nine other people and was expected to touch down at Mzuzu International Airport at 10:02 AM.
He said the plane could not land in Mzuzu because of bad weather. He added, “However they lost contact with the plane after its return, on its way to Lilongwe.”
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GPyMHqvXwAA5Xsn?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/><img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GPyMHq1WkAA1whq?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/><img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GPyMHquW8AA2wzJ?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/><img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GPyMHqoWMAA-Rnw?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Malawi's President Confirms Death Of VP Chilima, Nine Others

The United States Embassy in Malawi has availed a plane to assist in the search for a Malawi Air Force plane reported missing since Monday evening with Vice President Saulos Chilima and 9 others onboard.
In a statement, the United States Embassy in Lilongwe said that it had offered a U.S. Department of Defense C-12 aircraft for use in the search and rescue efforts. It said:
<blockquote>
The U.S. Embassy [in] Lilongwe is deeply concerned by the news that the plane carrying Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine others went missing yesterday morning.
With search and rescue operations underway, we are working with the Government of Malawi to offer all available assistance including the use of a U.S. Department of Defense C-12 aircraft.
We join President Chakwera in his prayers for the well-being of all those on board the Vice President’s plane.
</blockquote>
In a late-night national address at 11 PM, Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera said the MDF aircraft number MAF T03 left Mzuzu Airport at 7:05 AM and landed at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) in Lilongwe at 7:48 AM to pick up the Vice-President and others to Mzuzu en route to Nkhata Bay to attend the funeral service of former Attorney General and Minister of Justice Ralph Kasambara who died on Friday.
He said the aircraft departed KIA at 9:17 AM but failed to land in Mzuzu due to poor visibility occasioned by bad weather that prompted aviation authorities to advise that they return to Lilongwe.
According to the President, besides Chilima, others on board were former first lady Shanil Dzimbiri, Lukas Kapheni, Chisomo Chimaneni, Gloria Mtukule, Dan Kanyemba and Abdul Lapukeni.
The flight was operated by Colonel Sambalopa, Major Flora Selemani and Major Aidin from MDF.
UTM Party youth leader for the North Mzondi Mkandawire detailed how the search began. He said, as quoted by <a href="https://mwnation.com/vice-presidents-plane-goes-missing/">Nation</a>:
<blockquote>
The challenge is that the search started very late, a decision was made very late almost after three hours to start the search and we have just been walking around the roads doing the searching, which is not helping.
We came to start searching around Raiply because the phone of one of the people in the plane was calling and it was pinned to a tower around here. But we have searched around the place and there is nothing.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

US Embassy Provides Aircraft To Aid In Search For Malawi VP's Missing Plane

Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera has said that he has contacted neighbouring countries and diplomatic partners to help search for a missing plane carrying Vice President Saulos Chilima and nine others.
As reported by the <a href="https://mwnation.com/veep-chilimas-plane-goes-missing/">Nation</a>, Chakwera addressed the nation at 11 PM on Monday and said the search for the plane registration number MAFTO3 was still going on contrary to reports that it had been abandoned until 6 AM on Tuesday. He said:
<blockquote>
We have already contacted our neighbouring countries and development partners including the US government, the British government, the Norwegian government and the Israeli government who have offered all sorts of support including the use of specialised technologies that will enhance our capacity to find the plane sooner.
</blockquote>
Chakwera was still hopeful that the plane would be found saying, “I am holding on to every fibre of hope that we will find survivors on that plane.”
He said the plane went missing in the morning of Monday following bad weather in Mzuzu where it was supposed to land.
Chakwera also said the plane landed at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) at 7:05 AM from Mzuzu to pick up Chilima who was to attend the funeral ceremony of the late Ralph Kasambara, a lawyer who also served as Attorney General and Justice Minister.
The plane left KIA at 9:17 am with the Chilima and nine other passengers and was expected to touch down at Mzuzu International Airport at 10:02 AM.
The President said that the nine passengers were Lucas Kapheni, Chisomo Chimaneni, Gloria Mtukule, Shanil Dzimbiri, Dan Kanyemba, Abdul Lapken, Col Samalopa, Major Selemani and Major Ayidini.
He said the plane could not land in Mzuzu because of bad weather. He added, “However they lost contact with the plane after its return, on its way to Lilongwe.”
After checking towers during a search, the plane could be detected within a 10km radius of Raiply within Chikangawa Forest, said Chakwera.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Malawian President Seeks Help In Search For Missing Plane Carrying VP Chilima, Nine Others

A military plane carrying Malawi’s Vice President, Saulos Chilima, and nine others went missing on Monday, the president’s office has said.
In a statement, the Malawian Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Colleen Zamba said the plane left the capital Lilongwe just after 9.15 AM on Monday and headed for Mzuzu, in the north, but didn’t land as scheduled. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Office of the President and Cabinet wishes to inform the general public that the Malawi Defense Force Aircraft that left Lilongwe today, Monday 10th June 2024 at 09:17 Hours, carrying the Vice President, the Right Honourable Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, and nine others, failed to make its scheduled landing at Mzuzu International Airport at 10:02. All efforts by aviation authorities to make contact with the Aircraft since it went off the radar have failed thus far.
As such, the Commander of the Malawi Defense Force, General Valentino Phiri, has since informed His Excellency Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera of the incident and the President has since cancelled his scheduled departure for the Bahamas and ordered all regional and national agencies to conduct an immediate search and rescue operation to locate the whereabouts of the aircraft.
The public will be updated of any developments on the situation as facts are established.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Aircraft Carrying Malawi Vice President, Saulos Chilima, Goes Missing

Nineteen (19) Malawian nationals who were intercepted in Harare aboard a bus en route to South Africa were each fined US$50 for violating the country’s immigration laws.
According to <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/court-fines-19-malawian-nationals-for-immigration-violations">The Sunday Mail</a>, Steven Chipapi and 18 others will be imprisoned for 10 days if they fail to pay the fines.
The Malawian nationals pleaded guilty to the charges when they appeared before Harare magistrate, Caroline Matanga, charged with entering Zimbabwe without permits.
Prosecuting, Mandirasa Chigumira stated that on April 23, the police received information that some illegal migrants were at Virtue Trade fuel station in Southlea Park, Harare.
Police officers proceeded to the fuel station where they found the 19 aboard a JKN Logistics bus (AGL1978) and requested to see their travelling documents.
The court heard that fifteen of them produced Malawian temporary travelling documents while the remaining four were undocumented.
Meanwhile, twenty-three (23) other Malawian immigrants who were staying in Mbare are expected to appear at the Harare Magistrates Court facing similar charges.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

19 Malawian Nationals Fined For Immigration Violations

Thirty (30) Malawians were arrested in Mbare, Harare, on Monday, 22 April after they allegedly failed to produce documents proving they were in the country legally.
As reported by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/30-illegal-immigrants-arrested-in-mbare/">The Herald</a>, the Malawian nationals were taken to Harare Central police station for further investigations.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests. He said:
<blockquote>
Thirty foreign nationals have been arrested in an operation conducted by police in Mbare after receiving information.
</blockquote>
Asst. Comm. Nyathi added that full details of the arrest would be released today.
Last month, the <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/theindependent/local-news/article/200024929/hundreds-of-chinese-migrants-expelled">Zimbabwe Independent</a> reported that since January 2024, there has been an influx of undocumented Malawian nationals.
Respect Gono, the chief director at the Department of Immigration, told the publication that the illegal migrants were arriving in Zimbabwe claiming they were going to work on farms. Said Gono:
<blockquote>
We let their embassy identify them. After that, we hire buses to take them back. This is just sending them back through proper channels so that we do not ruin relations. We do not deport Malawians.
We repatriate them because they are part of the Southern African Development Community.
What happens is that sometimes they hide their passports after getting into Zimbabwe. We search and find to establish if they do have passports.
</blockquote>
Mwayiwawo Polepole, Malawian ambassador to Zimbabwe, said that Harare and Lilongwe enjoy a long history of bilateral and diplomatic relations. Said Polepole:
<blockquote>
Considering that cases of that nature were increasing and filling up space in prisons, the Government of Zimbabwe through the immigration department honoured the United Nations convention that the host country of those arrested should be sent back to their countries.
As neighbours and countries enjoying a long history of bilateral and diplomatic relations, two busses were dispatched to Malawi in January.
Again, in February, another bus-load was dispatched to Malawi. In some instances, when immigration informs the embassy of such cases, the embassy engages in a process of self-repatriation.
These processes are normal. The embassy is grateful to the Government of Zimbabwe for such a gesture.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe serves as a major transit route for African immigrants aiming to reach South Africa, and a significant proportion of foreigners arrested in the country are en route to South Africa.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

30 Undocumented Malawians Arrested In Mbare

The government of Malawi has made an agreement to send young people from Malawi to work on farms in Israel. This initiative called the Labour Export Program, is a joint effort between the government and the private sector, according to a government statement seen by Pindula News. The government says the deal aims to fulfil the administration’s commitment to creating jobs and empowering the youth, as advocated by President Lazarus McCathy Chakwera. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
The general public is hereby informed that the Government has embarked on the export of labour to various countries including Israel. The Labour export program is an initiative of the government in collaboration with the private sector to fulfill this administration’s commitment to job creation and youth empowerment as championed by His Excellency Dr. Lazarus McCathy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi. There are several sectors under consideration and the first cohort is for the agricultural sector. Under the labour export program, the govemment would like to inform the public that the safety and security of the youth is paramount On the Israel labour export, the youth will work at certified and approved locations which are classified as fit and safe environment. In Addition, medical insurance and repatriation arrangements are in place for the youth involved. All labour exports are guided by Malawi Government’s Labour Export Program and Harmonized Labour Export Guidelines of 2022.
So far, the first cohort of the youth from various parts of the country have been granted an opportunity to work in Israel and will leave anytime since all the clearances have been granted. More youth are expected to be engaged in this program.
Government assures Malawians that the identified youth will work on farms and will not be involved in any other activity.
This program will benefit both individuals and the nation. A portion of wages will cover living cost in Israel, while the remainder will be remitted to personal accounts here in Malawi to boost foreign exchange.
</blockquote>
President Chakwera has been criticised for the decision to send Malawian youths to work on farms in Israel with some saying he got to power only because he promised to create employment and boost the economy. Some view the deal as exporting cheap labour rather than genuine job creation. However, others argue that the initiative is beneficial, providing financial empowerment and knowledge transfer to the youth. Some believe that opportunities like this should be embraced, especially considering Malawi’s economic challenges. Malawi is endowed with a diversified natural resource base, including some of the most fertile soils for agricultural use in Southern Africa, closed forest resources covering about 30 percent of the land, abundant water resources and remarkably diverse flora and fauna, of which the uniquely rich fish resources stand out. Yet, the country has a history of citizens working in neighbouring countries. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Malawi Government Agrees To Send Young People To Work On Farms In Israel

Malawi’s President, Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, has called for national repentance, for God to have mercy on the Malawi nation.
Chakwera said Malawians need to repent due to calamities that have befallen the country.
He was addressing members at the Eminent Person Forum organised by the Evangelical Association of Malawi (EAM) at Crossroads Hotel in Lilongwe on Wednesday. Chakwera said:
<blockquote>
We must repent, because we have sinned. In the context of relief and recovery right now people are continuing to sin.
As a nation, we need to humble ourselves because God is reaching out to us for repentance.
We need to refocus because there cannot be hope if you know there is no one to call.
</blockquote>
The event was calling for eminent persons or high officials like government officials, and business officials to pray and ask for God’s intervention, according to Archbishop Mark Kambalazaza the Chairperson for the Evangelical Association of Malawi.
Speaking at the event, Enoch Adeboye the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, said:
<blockquote>
Never query God again, all things work together for good to those that love the Lord.
The disciples accused Jesus as to why he was sleeping when they were about to sink but Jesus calmed the storm.
I assure you the one that never sleeps nor slumbers is with Malawians. I have good news for you, the future of Malawi will be glorious.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.africanews.com/2023/03/30/malawi-cyclone-freddys-death-toll-rises-to-1200/#:~:text=The%20death%20toll%20from%20Cyclone,the%20epicenter%20of%20the%20disaster.">africanews</a>, Malawi was hit by Cyclone Freddy early this month resulting in the death of at least 1 200 people in the central African country.
The country’s disaster management department said the chances of finding the 538 missing people, more than two weeks after the disaster, have become slim.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009522/ed-demands-re-run-in-violence-hotspots">Pindula News</a>

Malawi: President Lazarus Chakwera Calls For National Repentance

A South African non-governmental organisation, Gift of the Givers, has said more help is needed in Malawi following the devastating tropical cyclone, Freddy which hit the country earlier last week.
Gift of the Givers representative in Malawi, Sherifa Mia said that some parts of the country that were affected by Freddy are still inaccessible. <a href="https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/more-help-needed-in-malawi-following-storm-says-gift-of-the-givers/">SABC News</a> quoted Mia as saying:
<blockquote>
We have the UN agencies we have international organisations, but the devastation is just so huge that still a lot of people, thousands and thousands of people haven’t been reached.
We were out distributing food to camps in rural areas and they were actually shocked to see us because nobody has been to see them, to give them any help.
The rain stopped two days now where in some areas it’s not raining, but in other areas is still raining, so still accessibility is a problem, and a lot of roads have been cut off.
</blockquote>
Last week President Lazarus Chakwera declared the devastation that Freddy has caused in Malawi a national tragedy.
Zambia has provided two aircraft to help in the rescue and distribution of relief aid to victims in areas where many people are still trapped.
More than 200 people have been declared missing by the authorities, while more than 300 people have died.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

South African NGO Calls For More Help For Freddy Victims In Malawi

Tropical Cyclone Freddy has killed at least 326 people after it ripped through southern Malawi, according to the country’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs.
One of the hardest-hit areas is Chilowe, a township near the city of Blantyre. Located below a hill, the township saw water gushing down from above on Sunday night.
Authorities say over 30 people from the area have died and dozens remain missing as search and rescue efforts continue, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/15/africa/malawi-death-toll-cyclone-freddy-intl/index.html">CNN</a> reported.
People could be seen on Monday using shovels, even bare hands, to search for the people in the rubble, the publication added.
 
The Malawi Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change said Tuesday that the cyclone was “weakening but will continue to cause torrential rains associated with windy conditions in most parts of Southern Malawi districts.” 
Charles Kalemba, a commissioner for the Department of Disaster Management Affairs agency, told CNN Tuesday that the situation had worsened in southern Malawi.
Malawi’s Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services warned Monday that “the threat of damaging winds and heavy flooding remains very high.”
Kalemba added that an improvement in weather was expected from Wednesday. 
In Mozambique, at least 10 people were killed and 13 injured in the Zambezia province, according to state broadcaster Radio Mozambique, citing the National Institute of Disaster Risk Management.
Cyclone Freddy has broken records for the longest-lasting storm of its kind after making landfall in Mozambique for a second time, more than two weeks after the first.
More than 22,000 people have been displaced by the tropical storm, according to Radio Mozambique.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Pictures: Cyclone Freddy Has Killed Over 320 In Malawi

The President of Malawi, Lazarus Chakwera, on Monday, declared a “state of disaster” in the southern region of the country after floods caused by Tropical Cyclone Freddy killed at least 99 people.
Heavy rains and strong winds destroyed houses, washed away roads and bridges, flattened crop fields and disrupted power generation.
Chakwera also appealed for help locally and globally for the tens of thousands of people who have been left without food and shelter. He said:
<blockquote>
Government is already responding to the emergencies, rendering urgent assistance to all affected districts, and appealing for local and international support for all the families affected by this disaster.
</blockquote>
The state of disaster has been declared in the following districts: Blantyre City and District, Chikwawa District, Chiradzulu District, Mulanje District, Mwanza District, Neno District, Nsanje District, Thyolo District, Phalombe District, and Zomba City and District.
Malawi’s Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs, Charles Kalemba, told <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/tino-vomits-in-dressing-room-scare/">CNN</a> that rescue efforts have been compounded by the rains that have continued to pound the country. He said:
<blockquote>
We are still having a lot of rain coming down. We are now experiencing landslides, flash floods, and stones rolling down some hills. Because of the weather, rescue efforts are not easy.
In some of the places we have to go and rescue people, it’s not easy to get there. It’s tough but we are making sure we do the job that we need to do.
</blockquote>
Schools in the 10 southern districts will remain closed until Wednesday, Malawi’s education ministry said in a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/malawigovernment/posts/pfbid0sZ5ZkoJzzYm4M94M8ZQvGBuLqmNG4Tq8Gw3etcPFqneYCn5j9h18aJTDVoC9Q5RTl" rel="noopener" target="_blank">statement</a> Sunday
Tropical Cyclone Freddy has broken records for the longest-lasting storm of its kind after travelling thousands of kilometres since it emerged on 6 February.
The cyclone has been described as a “very rare” storm by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), which called its journey so far “incredible and dangerous.”
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cyclone Freddy: Malawi Declares State Of Disaster In 10 Districts

Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Malawi, Nancy Saungweme, is the new Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Malawi.
The Dean is the senior diplomatic representative of the diplomatic corps who has served the longest in a country. Seniority depends on the date of arrival in the capital coupled with the official presentation of credentials.
In a statement on Thursday, 8 December, the Embassy of Zimbabwe in Lilongwe said Saungweme takes over from Iwakiri Satoshi, Ambassador of Japan to Malawi who has completed his tour of duty. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Malawi presents its compliments to the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe and has the honour to inform the latter that His Excellency Mr. Iwakiri Satoshi, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Malawi and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, has completed tour of duty.
In this regard, Her Excellency Ms. Nancy Saungweme, Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe to the Republic of Malawi, is the new Dean of the Diplomatic Corps.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Malawi avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe the assurances of its highest consideration.
</blockquote>

Ambassador Saungweme Now Dean Of The Diplomatic Corps In Malawi

Malawi’s Vice-President Saulos Chilima has been arrested on allegations of accepting a bribe from a government contractor.
According to Malawi’s Anti-Corruption Bureau, Chilima accepted $280 000 (£230 000) from a British businessman “and other items” in exchange for awarding government contracts.
The contracts related to armoured personnel carriers, food rations, and water cannons.
Chilima has appeared in court but has not commented on the charges.
In June, he was stripped of his powers when he was first accused by the Anti-Corruption Bureau.
Chilima faces six charges relating to corruption.
The British businessman, named as Zuneth Sattar, was arrested in the UK in October last year and is now on bail. He denies the allegations.
Sattar is accused of using connections with senior Malawi government officials and politicians to fraudulently obtain contracts to supply goods and services.
Chilima was elected Malawi’s Vice President in 2020 when he was the running mate of President Lazarus Chakwera. | <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-63754227?at_bbc_team=editorial&amp;at_ptr_name=facebook_page&amp;at_format=link&amp;at_link_origin=BBC_News_Africa&amp;at_link_type=web_link&amp;at_link_id=3C205F24-6CC9-11ED-A299-3F570EDC252D&amp;at_campaign_type=owned&amp;at_medium=social&amp;at_campaign=Social_Flow&amp;fbclid=IwAR05bkiNhX_U7tpPn81v1InPGxaz0vxmpvfinF4TQDRbVD1SQR881W8tAf4">BBC News</a>

Malawi's Vice President Saulos Chilima Arrested For Corruption

Former Dynamos and Warriors coach, Callisto Pasuwa has won his fourth successive league title in Malawi with Nyasa Big Bullets.
Bullets were confirmed the 2022 Malawi Super League champions after beating Moyale FC 3-1 on Saturday.
The Blantyre-based club, considered the number one football club in Malawi in terms of supporters, now has an unassailable 67 points with two rounds to play and having lost just once throughout the season.
The league triumph comes just three weeks after Bullets won the FA Cup.
Meanwhile, Pasuwa equals his personal record for most successive league titles.
He won four championships with side Dynamos Football Club, arguably the number one football club in Zimbabwe in terms of supporters. | <a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2022/11/12/pasuwa-wins-fourth-successive-league-title-in-malawi/">Soccer24</a>

Callisto Pasuwa Wins Fourth Successive League Title In Malawi

Eighty-four (84) Malawian immigrants are languishing in Zimbabwean prisons after they were arrested for travelling without requisite documents.
It is believed that the majority of the immigrants had no intention of staying in Zimbabwe but were travelling to South Africa.
Malawi’s deputy ambassador to Zimbabwe Elias Mpaso confirmed that scores of Malawians are detained in Zimbabwean prisons saying the embassy was making efforts to repatriate them. He said:
<blockquote>
Last Friday we had 84 Malawian nationals in Zimbabwean jails. There are 66 males at Harare Remand Prison and 18 females at Chikurubi. These people were arrested in different parts of Zimbabwe.
However, the government is trying its best to repatriate them, we are still waiting for the Foreign Affairs Department to officially inform us. We are also sourcing funds from Malawi for their repatriation.
In Malawi, the repatriation process is done in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Food Disaster Management to take our citizens back to Malawi.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe does not have holding facilities for immigrants awaiting deportation and as a result, border jumpers are imprisoned.
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) said it is a violation of the immigrants’ human rights to put them in prisons together with convicted criminals. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002578/84-malawian-migrants-languish-in-zim-prisons">NewsDay</a>

84 Malawian Border Jumpers Languish In Zim Prisons

Zimbabwe has turned to neighbouring Zambia to import 200 000 tonnes of maize to feed millions currently facing hunger in the country, after plans to import the same quantity of maize from Malawi in May did not bear fruit.
The deal was contested by the Malawi Parliament in Lilongwe because of a violation of tender procedures, NewsDay reported.
Zambia’s Consumer Association confirmed the maize deal. The Zambian consumer body spoke to NewsDay:
<blockquote>
According to the information, it’s more like a controlled export because we have some companies which have memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Congolese and Zimbabwean companies in order to fulfil the MoUs.
</blockquote>
Insiders close to millers and the Zimbabwean government say there have been hurdles around the importation of Malawian and Zambian maize.
Sources close to the developments said all permits have now been finalised paving way for the importation of maize from Zambia. 
It is reported that the maize is being imported by the Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ).
This view was supported by Lands and Agriculture ministry secretary John Basera who said: 
<blockquote>
This maize is certainly not being imported by the government; it has to be private players.
We have 1.5 million tonnes of maize  from harvest this year plus 300 000t in small grain, then 500 000t carryover stock from last year that puts us at 2,3 million tonnes of grain versus our demand of 2,2 million tonnes.
</blockquote>
He said millers who failed to fund 40% of their local requirements locally were importing grain from neighbouring countries.
About 5.4 million (36%) of Zimbabweans are facing hunger in the current season, according to the World Food Programme.
This has brought the government under scrutiny after <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Command_Agriculture_2016">billions of dollars were used in recent years allegedly to boost the agriculture sector.</a>
Government critics say the money was abused by political elites.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Zimbabwe Importing Maize From Zambia After Collapse Of Malawi Deal

Malawi’s unsung hero at the ongoing 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Cameroon, Richard Justin Zawazawa, has been showered with various materials worth over K3 million back in his homeland.
Zawazawa a.k.a Dinho, the Flames’equipment manager, on Friday received a 15 metre by 30-metre plot in Lunzu, Blantyre, 50 bags of cement, 2 000 cement blocks and 50 iron sheets.
The donations were made by Ana a M’mudzi Development Initiative, under the Namasina brand, alongside Malawian owned US-based OC Cosmetics, dog food distribution company Fame Distributors and building material suppliers Quick Point Construction.
That was in addition to the Tecno Camon-18i smartphone plus a 40GB Internet bundle from mobile communication company Airtel Malawi plc.
Malawi reached the knockout stages of the AFCON finals for the first time in their history in Cameroon after beating Zimbabwe 2-1 and holding star-studded Senegal to a goalless draw.
<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/01/28/afcon-malawi-dismisses-juju-man-on-the-bench-reports/">AFCON: Malawi Dismisses “Juju Man On The Bench” Reports</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/01/20/malawi-qualifies-for-afcon-knockout-stage-for-the-first-time/">Malawi Qualifies For AFCON Knockout Stage For The First Time</a></li>
</ul>
Zawazawa, as the squad’s kitman, was always on the bench during matches and some of his compatriots did not understand his role and suggested on social media platforms that he was the witchdoctor behind the team’s success.
Though his contribution to the Flames’ success may seem so small as to be not worth considering, local businesses decided to honour him.
Speaking in an interview with The Nation, Ana a M’mudzi director Fatima Nkata, a US-based former television personality, said they thought of assisting the 47-year-old for his noble service to the national football team at AFCON. She said:
<blockquote>
We would have loved to give a little something to everyone in the team, but we particularly chose to bless Dinho because of the vital work he does in the background and he remains an unsung hero that needs to be celebrated in a special way.
</blockquote>
Zawazawa, a Blantyre resident who is married and has five children, appreciated the assistance which comes after some of his compatriots mocked him on social media, calling him the Flames’ “juju man” (witch doctor). He said:
<blockquote>
I know these people tried to poke fun at me. However, I was not worried because I knew that while they thought they were despising me, they were actually giving me blessings. I am really grateful for this.
</blockquote>
Zawazawa said he started working as a cleaner at the Football Association of Malawi in 2007 before being appointed equipment manager.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.mwnation.com/well-wishers-give-flames-kit-manager-k3m-materials/">The Nation</a></h4>

Malawi's AFCON "Juju Man" Rewarded With Residential Stand

A Malawian journalist was early this month interrogated by police over an article that was critical of President Lazarus Chakwera.
According to the Committee for the Protection of Journalists (CPJ), Watipaso Mzungu, the chief reporter of the privately-owned news website Nyasa Times, was on 6 April interrogated by police in the Malawi capital of Lilongwe.
<a href="https://www.nyasatimes.com/cdedi-calls-chakwera-a-fools-day-comedian-for-deferring-cabinet-reshuffle/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">In that article</a>, Mzungu quoted a local activist who referred to President Chakwera as “a joker” and a “time-waster” in relation to a proposed reshuffling of his cabinet.
On April 5, a police officer called Mzungu and said he was wanted for questioning the following day.
The officer did not specify the nature of the questioning and told Mzungu not to bring a lawyer, the journalist told CPJ.
During questioning at the Lilongwe police headquarters, officers said that the article constituted a criminal insult of the president and an attempt to undermine the authority of the head of state.
The police officers asked the journalist about his article, his motivations for writing it, and whether he had manipulated the statements of an activist he quoted in order to attract public attention, the CPJ continued.
The officers also demanded that Mzungu give them the unedited draft of his April 2 story, as well as the activist’s original statement.
Malawi Police Service spokesperson, James Kadadzera, said Mzungu was neither detained nor summoned for questioning and that he had merely been “invited for an interview” over an ongoing investigation.
He said the journalist had cooperated with the police and was released unconditionally.
<h4>More: <a href="https://cpj.org/2021/04/malawi-police-question-journalist-watipaso-mzungu-over-article-calling-president-a-joker/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Committee to Protect Journalists</a></h4>

Malawian Journalist Interrogated For Saying President Is A 'Fools’ Day Comedian'

South African police have announced the death <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/29/truck-driver-shot-in-the-head-in-a-queue-along-n1-highway/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">of a 38-year-old Malawian truck driver who was recently shot in the head by two armed robbers near the country’s border with Zimbabwe.</a>
Robert Sakala was waiting for his chance to pass through the South African border along the N1 highway when he was shot by two unknown gunmen on 29 March.
Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said Sakala succumbed to the wounds on Friday afternoon at Polokwane General Hospital.
No arrests have been made in connection with the murder yet. Brigadier Mojapelo said:
<blockquote>The truck driver succumbed to gunshot injuries in a Polokwane hospital on Friday afternoon. The case has now been changed from attempted murder to murder.
Robert Sakala (38), was a driver of a white Power Star truck with registration numbers JB 21 XJ GP.
The police in Musina are investigating the matter and are appealing for information that may assist in tracing the two suspects who allegedly shot the truck driver and robbed him of an undisclosed amount of money as well as a cell phone along the N1 road next to the weighbridge.</blockquote>
Brigadier Mojapelo said the two men, one armed with a firearm, allegedly arrived at the truck and suddenly demanded money from Sakala.
He said the robbers then shot and robbed him, and thereafter fled into the bushes.
The now-deceased was initially taken to Musina hospital for medical treatment.  Later, he was transferred to Polokwane for further management.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/just-in-malawian-truck-driver-succumbs-to-border-gunshot-wounds-in-sa/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chronicle</a></h4>

Malawian Trucker Succumbs To Border Gunshot Wounds In SA

The government of Malawi is reportedly seeking the arrest of Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary as they plan of extraditing the couple to South Africa to face trial on a number of charges leveled against them, The Nyasa Times reports.
According to Malawian media, a Lilongwe Magistrate Viva Nyimba ruled against the government’s application and said the couple should not be arrested since they need to appear in court if they are summoned.
<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/gauteng/malawi-court-rules-against-prophet-bushiris-arrest-fc3f9d90-1c9c-5f73-b082-475d2f57cbee">IOL</a> said:
<blockquote>Radio station Capital FM Malawi reported that Nyimba ruled that no warrant of arrest should be executed against the couple since they need to appear in court upon being summoned.
Nyimba ordered that the formal hearing of the extradition should start on March 8. The State is expected to have disclosed all remaining documents to the defence on January 18.</blockquote>
The Bushiris surrendered themselves to Malawian Police in November and Nyimba <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/11/19/malawi-magistrate-releases-bushiri-and-wife-mary/">released them unconditionally</a> a few days later saying there was no formal extradition request from South Africa.
Last month South Africa sent the formal extradition request to Malawi and the state was today seeking the arrest of the couple before Nyimba ruled in the couple’s favor.
Bushiri and his wife are facing fraud and money laundering charges and Bushiri alone is facing 3 rape charges.
More: <a href="https://www.nyasatimes.com/malawi-govt-seek-arrest-warrant-for-bushiri-at-lilongwe-magistrate-court/">Nyasa Times </a>

Malawi Court Rules Against Bushiri's Arrest, Again

The government of Malawi is reportedly seeking the arrest of Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary as they plan of extraditing the couple to South Africa to face trial on a number of charges leveled against them, The Nyasa Times reports.
According to Malawian media, a Lilongwe Magistrate Viva Nyimba ruled against the government’s application and said the couple should not be arrested since they need to appear in court if they are summoned.
<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/gauteng/malawi-court-rules-against-prophet-bushiris-arrest-fc3f9d90-1c9c-5f73-b082-475d2f57cbee">IOL</a> said:
<blockquote>Radio station Capital FM Malawi reported that Nyimba ruled that no warrant of arrest should be executed against the couple since they need to appear in court upon being summoned.
Nyimba ordered that the formal hearing of the extradition should start on March 8. The State is expected to have disclosed all remaining documents to the defence on January 18.</blockquote>
The Bushiris surrendered themselves to Malawian Police in November and Nyimba <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/malawi-magistrate-releases-bushiri-and-wife-mary/">released them unconditionally</a> a few days later saying there was no formal extradition request from South Africa.
Last month South Africa sent the formal extradition request to Malawi and the state was today seeking the arrest of the couple before Nyimba ruled in the couple’s favor.
Bushiri and his wife are facing fraud and money laundering charges and Bushiri alone is facing 3 rape charges.
More: <a href="https://www.nyasatimes.com/malawi-govt-seek-arrest-warrant-for-bushiri-at-lilongwe-magistrate-court/">Nyasa Times </a>

A Malawian pastor, Blessing Mduli Chirwa was shot dead in South Africa during the night of Saturday, 14 November 2020.
Pastor Chirwa, who stayed in Cape Town’s Joe Slovo Park, was killed in an area called Deft.
According to Nyasa Times, Chirwa was reportedly shot by armed robbers in Deft because he resisted them from stealing his car.
The Church of Central African Presbyterian (CCAP) in Joe Slovo where he belonged were busy preparing his burial arrangements.
Chirwa’s murder comes barely four days after Prophet Shepherd Bushiri of the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) Church skipped bail and returned to his native country, Malawi, citing safety concerns.
Bushiri and his wife Mary were arrested in South Africa on fraud and money laundering charges and appeared in court last month for alleged financial misdeeds amounting to 102 million rands.
They were granted bail of 200,000 rands each on November 4 and handed in their passports but they still managed to leave the country.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.nyasatimes.com/pastor-chirwa-of-ecg-church-from-malawi-killed-in-cape-town-as-bushiri-claims-death-threats/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nyasa Times</a></h4>

Pastor Chirwa From Malawi Shot Dead In South Africa

The Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) operating under the banner Malawi Black Economic Empowerment Movement (Mablem) have urged President Lazarus Chakwera’s government not to extradite Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and wife, Mary, to South Africa saying he will not face a fair trial.
The CSOs including the Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) held a news conference at the Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe, Malawi.
HRCC chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba told reporters that they do not believe the Bushiris would be given a fair trial if they were to be sent back to South Africa. He said:
<blockquote>As Civil Society Movement, we have analyzed and understood Prophet Shepherd Bushiri’s decision to return to Malawi as he faced numerous threats and attempts on his life as presented.
The allegations and threats on Bushiri, must not be taken lightly especially in a country which has got one of the highest crime rates in the world.
We strongly believe there can never be a trial of Bushiri in his absence we need him alive to answer the charges and justice be seen to be delivered.</blockquote>
The CSO said South Africa should investigate and address the complaints raised by Bushiri regarding his safety.
Bushiri and his wife fled to Malawi after they were granted bail of 200 000 rands each by a South African court on November 4.
Bushiri and his wife are facing fraud and money laundering charges and appeared in court last month for alleged financial misdeeds amounting to 102 million rands.
<blockquote>Failure by the South Africa  Government to investigate and address the complaints raised by Bushiri and subsequent complaints on the same from civil and human rights activists from Malawi, renders the whole justice process unfair and unfavourable for the Bushiri’s and does not guarantee safety and rights of the same and might lead to an impartial trial in South Africa.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.nyasatimes.com/csos-in-malawi-charges-up-for-bushiri-no-to-extradition-to-south-africa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nyasa Times</a></h4>

CSOs In Malawi Warn Govt Against Extraditing Bushiri To South Africa

Zimbabwe senior men’s team the warriors are on their way to Malawi by road where they will play Malawi at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday, the Chronicle reports.
Teenage Hadebe and Marvelous Nakamba are part of the team that is on the road trip to Malawi whilst Alec Mudimu and Khama Billiat will fly straight to Malawi.
The development was confirmed by Zifa communications and competitions manager, Xolisani Gwesela who told the publication that:
<blockquote>We are leaving this morning by road.</blockquote>
Here is the Warriors’ Squad that is en route to Malawi:
<blockquote>Goalkeepers: Talbert Shumba (Triangle United), Nelson Chadya (Ngezi Platinum Stars)
Defenders: Ian Nekati (Chicken Inn), Qadr Amin (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Alec Mudimu (Sherriff Tiraspol), Takudzwa Chimwemwe (Buildcon),Teenage Hadebe (Yeni Malatyaspor), MacClive Phiri (Sekhukhune United), Jimmy Dzingai (Nkana FC)
Midfielders: Marvelous Nakamba (Aston Villa),Tanaka Chinyahara (Red Arrows), Ishamel Wadi (Caps United), Khama Billiat (Kaizer Chiefs), Wellington Taderera (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Phenias Bamusi (Caps United), King Nadolo (Dynamos)
Strikers: Charlton Mashumba (Polokwane City), Stanley Ngala (FC Platinum)</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/warriors-in-road-trip-to-malawi/">Chronicle </a>

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