APM Revamping Economy

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Vice President for the Southern Region, Honourable Joseph Mathyola Mwanamvekha, has told residents of Phalombe North that Malawi’s economy is showing signs of recovery under the leadership of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, following what he described as years of mismanagement under the previous Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration led by President Lazarus Chakwera (2020–2025).

Mwanamvekha made the remarks on Sunday while addressing a political rally held at Namileme Primary School Ground, where he pointed to stabilizing prices of basic commodities and improved fuel availability as indicators of economic recovery.

He cited the reduction in maize prices, which he said had fallen from about K110,000 to K50,000 per bag, and noted that fuel was now readily available across the country. “There are no longer fuel queues at our filling stations,” Mwanamvekha told the crowd, drawing applause from supporters.

Member of Parliament for Phalombe North, Honourable Feston Chauma, thanked constituents for their continued support and expressed appreciation to Mwanamvekha for committing to the rehabilitation of the Chiteketsa dust road, which he described as impassable and a major challenge to local transport and trade.

Chauma said the proposed road works would significantly improve access to markets and public services for communities in the area.

The rally attracted several senior DPP officials, including DPP Southern Region Governor Hon Charles Mchacha and DPP Director of Youth for the South, Hon Bizzier Kalulu, underscoring the party’s renewed grassroots mobilization efforts in the region.

According to party officials, the rally formed part of the DPP’s broader outreach program aimed at updating citizens on government progress while also listening to community concerns. Mwanamvekha urged residents of Phalombe North to remain united and continue supporting President Mutharika’s development agenda, which he said prioritizes economic stability, infrastructure development, and improved livelihoods.

The DPP has recently intensified similar engagements across the Southern Region as it seeks to consolidate political support and communicate its policy direction to the public.

Share With:

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp

Comments

Related News

Henry Mathanga’s Return to RBM: Restoring Experience and Stability at a Critical Moment

Henry Mathanga’s professional journey at the Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) began in 1984. Through decades of diligence, competence, and unwavering commitment, he steadily rose through the ranks to become Deputy Governor. During his tenure, Mathanga played a pivotal role in driving key institutional reforms that strengthened RBM’s operations and contributed to a period of strong financial performance and profitability for the Bank. His return to the Reserve Bank should not be misconstrued as political appeasement, as some critics have suggested. Rather, it represents a deliberate correction of a misstep rooted in political interference. Following the Malawi Congress Party’s (MCP) rise to power in July 2020, RBM became one of the first institutions to face direct political pressure. An investigation—widely viewed as questionable in both motive and process—was swiftly initiated, leading to Mathanga’s suspension. This was later compounded by what many perceived as contrived legal cases involving him and former Governor Dalitso Kabambe. By 2021, the pressure intensified. Mathanga became the target of sustained public attacks, amplified through sections of the media and widely believed to be politically sponsored. He was repeatedly summoned to court over cases that ultimately failed to stand the test of credibility. A seasoned technocrat who had devoted the greater part of his life to public service was subjected to public humiliation and character assassination. With the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) now back in leadership, attention has shifted to repairing institutional damage and addressing pressing economic challenges—chief among them, the foreign exchange crisis. Former President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika is widely regarded as a leader who understands the importance of experience and technical competence in economic management. His decision to place trust in Mathanga once again reflects confidence in proven expertise rather than political convenience. Malawi’s need for foreign exchange is urgent and undeniable. As the country seeks solutions “as soon as yesterday,” the return of a seasoned and knowledgeable professional like Henry Mathanga to the Reserve Bank offers renewed hope that stability, credibility, and effective policy direction can be restored at this critical institution.

Lilongwe, Malawi

Mulli Praises Mutharika

Chairperson of Mulli Brothers Limited (MBL) Holdings, Mulli, has publicly endorsed the administration of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, crediting the government with creating a stable and business-friendly economic environment capable of stimulating growth and employment. Mulli made the remarks during a thanksgiving prayer service held at the company’s headquarters in Chigumula, Blantyre, where he emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government in efforts to stabilize and grow the national economy. According to the business leader, a sound macroeconomic environment would allow major companies such as MBL Holdings to expand operations and create more employment opportunities for Malawians. “When the economy is stable, businesses can grow. That growth translates directly into more jobs for Malawians across all our companies,” Mulli said. Mulli’s endorsement reflects growing confidence among sections of the private sector in the government’s economic policies, particularly those aimed at improving the investment climate, maintaining market stability, and supporting local industries. Analysts note that private-sector participation is key to economic recovery, especially in job creation and industrial growth. MBL Holdings operates across multiple sectors, and its expansion has the potential to contribute significantly to employment and economic activity, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. Mulli reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with government authorities to support economic stabilization efforts, stressing that sustainable growth requires cooperation between policymakers and business leaders. The thanksgiving service also took on a national tone, with Reverend Boniface Tamani offering prayers and well wishes for President Mutharika as he embarks on his second term in office. Speakers highlighted the need for wisdom and unity in steering the country’s economic direction. The event drew several prominent figures, including Bishop Brighton Malasa, Dr. Ken Lipenga, a former Cabinet minister, Rev. Missie Spiki, Vice Synod Moderator, Rev. Jimmy Banda, Deputy General Secretary, Rev. Billy Gama, MBL Holdings’ Chaplain, as well as employees of MBL Holdings. Observers say endorsements from leading business figures signal optimism about Malawi’s economic trajectory, with expectations that policy consistency, private investment, and job creation will play a central role in strengthening the economy in the coming years.

Chigumula, Malawi

Ria Money Transfer: A Global Leader in Remittance Services

Ria Money Transfer, a subsidiary of Euronet Worldwide, Inc., has grown into one of the world’s leading financial services companies specializing in electronic funds transfer and remittances. Founded in 1987, Ria has built a strong global footprint, serving millions of customers across continents. Headquartered in Buena Park, California, United States, Ria operates under Euronet’s Money Transfer Segment, led by Juan Bianchi, Chief Executive Officer. The company employs more than 4,000 people worldwide and reported revenues of $1.18 billion with an operating income of $59.7 million in 2020. Ria Money Transfer is recognized as one of the “big four” global remittance companies, operating through a vast network of agents and company-owned stores across North America, South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and online platforms. As of 2020, Ria’s services were available at more than 470,000 locations in 159 countries, as well as through its mobile app and website, riamoneytransfer.com. Over the years, Ria has risen to become the second-largest money transfer service in the world, driven by strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and technological innovation. In 2006, Ria was acquired by Euronet Worldwide, Inc., joining its money transfer segment alongside foreign exchange brand XE. The acquisition marked a major milestone in Ria’s international expansion. Ria began collaborating with post offices in 2010, and in 2014, partnered with Postbank of Kenya, enabling customers to send and receive money through all 99 Postbank branches or directly into bank accounts. This move significantly improved financial access for customers in East Africa. That same year, Ria launched Walmart-2-Walmart Powered by Ria in the United States, a domestic money transfer service available at more than 4,600 Walmart stores. The partnership was later expanded to Latin America in 2016, including a collaboration with Walmart Chile, offering remittance services through selected Líder supermarkets. In 2019, Ria and Walmart partnered with PayPal’s Xoom to introduce domestic money transfer services, enabling Xoom to expand into 60 countries through the agreement. Ria continued to strengthen its global presence with the acquisition of Malaysia-based IME in 2015. The company has also expanded aggressively in Latin America, supported by a joint venture between Euronet Worldwide and Spain’s Prosegur Cash. In Africa, Ria has gained regulatory recognition and partnerships. In March 2021, the Central Bank of Nigeria listed Ria as an approved international money transfer operator for diaspora remittances. First Bank of Nigeria also collaborates with Ria to facilitate inbound remittance flows. Ria has invested heavily in digital platforms to meet the growing demand for fast and convenient money transfers. The Ria Money Transfer App, available on Android and iOS, allows users in the United States, Canada, and most European countries to send money through Ria’s global network. The app has surpassed one million downloads. The company also supports mobile money services, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where mobile wallets play a critical role in financial inclusion. Through a partnership with Qmoney in The Gambia, Ria customers can send funds directly to mobile wallets, reducing costs and increasing accessibility. During the COVID-19 pandemic, global institutions including the World Bank highlighted the importance of remittances as a vital lifeline for vulnerable populations. Ria played a significant role in maintaining cross-border money flows during this period, reinforcing its importance in the global financial ecosystem. Today, Ria Money Transfer remains a trusted name for individuals sending money to families and communities worldwide. With continued investment in technology, partnerships, and financial inclusion, the company is positioning itself for sustained growth in the evolving global remittance market.

Washington State, USA

Report Alleges MK486 Million Payment for Unfinished Projects Documentary to Kadzako and Team

New information shared by Cables on social media alleges that several prominent figures—including Gospel Kazako, Joab Chakhaza, Luke Tembo, and Gabriel Kamlomo—were linked to a contract worth approximately MK486 million for the production of a documentary on former President Lazarus Chakwera’s unfinished development projects in the Ministry of Water and Sanitation. According to Cables, the contract was awarded to a little-known firm, CG Communications, at a time when the country faced widespread shortages of food and essential medical supplies. Critics have described the arrangement as a possible attempt to improperly utilize public funds. Previous Cables reporting had claimed that Gospel Kazako received significant funding to support the Malawi Congress Party’s media strategy and to influence strategic appointments within institutions such as ESCOM—claims that were initially met with skepticism. The latest allegations are said to reinforce those earlier reports. Details of the Alleged Contract sources cited by Cables indicate that: The contract was allegedly signed by Elias Chimulambe, Secretary for Water and Sanitation, and witnessed by Adrian Mpinganjira. Joab Frank Chakhaza and Gabriel Kamlomo reportedly signed the agreement on behalf of CG Communications. An upfront payment of MK145 million, representing 30% of the project cost, was purportedly made. The contract was initiated approximately three months before the 2025 elections, which former President Chakwera ultimately lost. Cables criticized the transaction as an unnecessary expenditure, arguing that there was no justification for producing a documentary on incomplete projects while citizens were facing severe economic hardships. The platform has called for a full and transparent investigation to determine whether public funds were misused and to ensure accountability for all parties involved.

Lilongwe, Malawi