Washington State, USA

November 11, 2025

Steven Maseya

Calls Grow for MBC Reforms as Malawi Enters New Information Age

The Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), once the nation’s pride and voice of unity, is facing renewed calls for rebranding and reform to restore public trust and independence after decades of political influence.

Founded in 1964, the same year Malawi gained independence, MBC was established to promote education, culture, and national development. However, under the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) during the one-party era, it became a propaganda tool for Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda’s government, silencing dissenting voices.

When multiparty democracy arrived in 1994, many Malawians expected change. Yet successive governments continued to use MBC to advance ruling party interests:

1964–1994: MCP under Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda
1994–2004: United Democratic Front (UDF) under Bakili Muluzi
2004–2012: Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) under Bingu wa Mutharika and Peter Mutharika
2012–2014: People’s Party (PP) under Joyce Banda
2014–2020: DPP under Peter Mutharika
2020–2025: MCP under Lazarus Chakwera

Ironically, none of these parties retained power despite controlling MBC, reflecting how political manipulation of the broadcaster has failed to win voter confidence.

Independent studies by MACRA, the Development Broadcasting Unit (DBU), and the National Statistical Office (NSO) highlight long-standing credibility issues at MBC.

MACRA reports show that over 70% of airtime during elections promotes government activities, with the opposition receiving less than 10%. Public trust in MBC fell below 30% between 2020 and 2024.
DBU findings reveal that 81% of rural listeners feel MBC does not reflect community voices.
NSO surveys indicate that only 43% of citizens now view MBC as their most trusted news source, down from 67% in 2000.

Young audiences increasingly prefer private and online media, such as Zodiak, Times Radio, and social platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok. Experts have called for a comprehensive review of the Act to ensure editorial independence, transparency, and accountability.

Malawi now enjoys a vibrant media environment, with over 70 radio stations, 20 television stations, and more than 10 active newspapers.
Private broadcasters such as Zodiak Broadcasting Station, Times TV, MIJ FM, and Capital Radio have become trusted alternatives.
MACRA reports that over 6.3 million Malawians—around 30% of the population—now access news online and via social media, giving citizens more freedom to choose diverse information sources.

Observers believe President Peter Mutharika’s administration (2025–2030) has a unique opportunity to depoliticize MBC and transform it into a professional, people-centered public broadcaster. Experts urge the government to appoint experienced, innovative professionals familiar with MBC’s internal culture, promote creativity and integrity, and eliminate political interference.

The story of MBC mirrors Malawi’s democratic journey—from state control to citizen empowerment. In the modern information age, media control no longer guarantees loyalty; credibility does.
Reforming MBC is not merely a media issue but a national imperative for democracy, transparency, and development.

If the institution embraces reform and independence, it can once again become a true public broadcaster—reflecting the aspirations and diversity of all Malawians.

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