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Mutharika says in 5 years Malawi to transform into skilled, export oriented economy

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Mutharika speaking at the panel

Malawi President Peter Mutharika has said his government has stepped up efforts aimed at transforming the country into a more skilled and export oriented economy within five years. [caption id="attachment_94362" align="alignright" width="600"]Mutharika speaking at the panel Mutharika speaking at the panel[/caption] [caption id="attachment_94361" align="alignright" width="600"]Mutharika in China listening at the opening of World Economic Forum Mutharika in China listening at the opening of World Economic Forum[/caption] Mutharika made the sentiments during a Televised Session cast live on CNBC-Africa which was part of the World Economic Forum summit dubbed ‘Annual Meeting of the new champions’ currently taking place in Dalian, China. “I think China had been very pragmatic in its approach by focusing on rural development; we are doing the same in Malawi. We have decided to take a massive training approach for the youth in rural areas we are moving social amenities such as schools and hospitals to rural areas where most people are; we give them skills training right there. “As in my case, I want in five years from now people should say we are better off than we were before. I want a society where people are happier than they were before; people with better incomes, good houses, good roads and better services,” Mutharika said. Asked as to whether China’s economic woes can have influence on Malawi, Mutharika observed that economic challenges facing China would have negative impact on Malawi. “China is crucial partner to Malawi since 2008, they have been supporting us in a number of areas such as irrigation and infrastructure development, it is also a free trade area for over 400 products,” said Mutharika. World Economic Forum is a platform that brings together World leaders ranging from political to business to discuss challenges facing trade and investment across the Global. This year’s meeting is called Annual Meeting of the New Champions and is being held from September 9-11 at Dalian International Conference Centre (DICC) for the second year running under the theme “charting a new course for growth’. The Forum is expected to draw together about 2 thousand delegates. CNBC Africa Executive Director Bronwyn Nielsen hosted the one hour panel discussion which also had Marcos Vinicius de Souza Brazilian Secretary of Innovations, Kevin Lu Chief Executive Officer and member of the Global Executive Board Partners Group Singapore and Kalvakuntla Chandrashekar Rao, Chief Minister of Telengana India.

China gives Malawi K17bn grant for Police, Community Colleges: Benefits of ‘Look East’ policy

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Mutharika and Malawi delagtion holding talks with their Chinese counterparts

The Chinese government has granted Malawi K17 billion to go towards procurement of Police Service vehicles and establishment of community technical colleges. [caption id="attachment_94397" align="alignright" width="600"]Mutharika: Chinese government has done it again for the people of Malawi Mutharika: Chinese government has done it again for the people of Malawi[/caption] President Peter Mutharika, who is in China for a five-day official visit, revealed about grant on Friday. ''It is great news that China has granted Malawi MK 17 billion .This gesture was disclosed to me during the audience I had with Chinese Premier (Prime Minister), Mr. Li Keqiang,'' said Mutharika through his Facebook page. The grant, according to Mutharika, is expected to contribute towards procuring 100 police vehicles and part of it will be channelled towards completion of five community technical colleges. He said the police vehicles will assist in improving the country's security and ensure that Malawi ''remains secured and an environment friendly where investors would feel safe to do their business''. ''Part of this grant will be channelled towards the completion of 5 more technical colleges as we continue creating the skilled labour force necessary for social and economic development''. Mutharika also revealed that the Chinese government has promised continued support to Malawi and working in partnership as the country strives to fight poverty. ''Having completed the first phase of their projects in Malawi, the Chinese government is looking forward to start new projects very soon,'' added Mutharika.

Malawi leader says China visit immense success

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President Peter Mutharika is welcomed by the Vice President Saulos Chilima at Kamuzu International Airport - Pic by Stanley Makuti

Malawian President Peter Mutharika Sunday returned home from China where he among other things attended the World Economic Forum (WEF) and discussed development projects with Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang. [caption id="attachment_94463" align="alignright" width="426"]President Peter Mutharika is welcomed by the Vice President Saulos Chilima at Kamuzu International Airport - Pic by Stanley Makuti President Peter Mutharika is welcomed by the Vice President Saulos Chilima at Kamuzu International Airport - Pic by Stanley Makuti[/caption] Speaking on arrival at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, President Mutharika described the visit as an immense success. He said Malawi would continue to benefit from the Republic of China in a number of projects which are yet to be established in the country. “There are about seven projects which the two Governments have agreed to work on and Minister of Trade and Industry will go to the Peoples’ Republic of China to meet with Minister of Commerce to look at the technical details of the projects,” said Mutharika. Mutharika who did not give out the details of the projects which are yet to be established said this is in terms of technical and financial support from China. The President also said Malawi would benefit a lot in terms of implementation of its economic reforms. Other projects which Mutharika mentioned when he was in China were about the construction of water reservoirs in the country. While in China, the Malawi President toured about seven irrigation schemes and concluded that water harvesting can help Malawians to have adequate food throughout the year. China is a crucial partner to Malawi Government since 2008, they have been supporting Malawi in a number of areas such as irrigation and infrastructure development and it is also a free trade area for over 400 products. World Economic Forum is a platform that brings together world leaders ranging from political to business to discuss challenges facing trade and investment across the Global. Malawi established diplomatic relations with Beijing on December 28, 2007 after severing ties with Taiwan with which it had relationship for 41 years.

Malawi secures Chinese ‘buffet’ of development aid: Mutharika outlines funded projects

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Malawian President Mutharika outlines Chinese government funded projects

Ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) elite are popping champagne at Kamuzu Palace following President Peter Mutharika’s successful securing of a multibillion Kwacha aid package from China which covers, among others, the construction of the district hospital and cancer centre worth over $23 million at Kameza in Blantyre. [caption id="attachment_96495" align="alignright" width="600"]Malawian President Mutharika outlines Chinese government funded projects Malawian President Mutharika outlines Chinese government funded projects[/caption] [caption id="attachment_96497" align="alignright" width="600"]Malawi government officials and Chinese officials listeing to President Mutharka outlining the funded projects Malawi government officials and Chinese officials listeing to President Mutharka outlining the funded projects[/caption] [caption id="attachment_96496" align="alignright" width="600"]President Mutharika greeting Chinese officials at Kamuzu Palace President Mutharika greeting Chinese officials at Kamuzu Palace[/caption] Mutharika said this during a news conference in Lilongwe Wednesday where he outlined what he called the outcome of the discussions that were held during his recent trip to China with officials from the Ministry of Commerce, EXIM Bank of China and China Gezhouba Group Company Limited. "The Chinese Government has provided grants to the Malawi Government as follows: US$25 million (130 million RMB)whose Financing Agreement was signed in January 2015; US$25 million (150 million RMB)whose Financing Agreementis being prepared for signing; and US$8 million (50 RMB million) interest-free loan, financing Agreement which was signed in January 2015," explained Mutharika. The news conference was held barely a day after a highly-level meeting organized Cabinet Ministers to provide a face-to-face platform to address issues raised by some Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The CSOs requested government to clarify on Farm Input Subsidy Programme, give a status report on the country's economy, water and electricity woes. Among the major projects which the Chinese government has pledged to undertake include a crucial but exciting 300 megawatt Kammwamba Coal Fired plant which will increase the power generating capacity of Malawi to meet the ever increasing demand according to Mutharika. "The project cost is estimated at US$667, 232, 814," said Mutharika, revealing that other projects are subjected to further discussions and review. The power project, which will increase power generation capacity to meet the ever increasing demand, is exciting news to both Malawians and investors who endure hours of power black outs every day. Another project on the cards is the dual carriage road from Kanengo industrial area to Mchinji round about in Lilongwe which drastically reduce congestion on the road thereby cutting back on delays motorists experience on the road as they come from Kamuzu International airport and the northern region. Mutharika also says he has secured Chinese grants for the construction of the Blantyre District Hospital which was unceremoniously abandoned by late Muammar Gadaffi  of Libya and Cancer Centre in Blantyre at Kameza costing US$23 million. The People's Republic of China will also provide Lilongwe with grants for procurement vehicles for the country's security agency, Malawi Police Service costing $2 million. The Malawi leader said he secured the Chinese development projects when he held talks with Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang during his recent visit to China. Another grant is the construction of a Technical Teacher Training College costing US$5 million and the construction of Community Technical Colleges costingUS$6 million. The Chinese windfall also covers the promotion of value addition activities for the Ministry of Industry and Trade amounting to US$5 million, In the Chinese aid buffet, there is a grant for the procurement of equipment and exchange programs for lecturers at the Malawi University of Science and TechnologyUS$2 million. It also covers the procurement of office equipment and furniture for the Ministry of Industry and Trade amounting to US$1 million. The is also support for technical services for the Bingu National Stadium constructed with the support of the Chinese Government amounting to US$1 million and construction of a new Ministry of Foreign Affairs Building amounting to US$3 million. China is a crucial partner to Malawi Government since 2008, they have been supporting Malawi in a number of areas such as irrigation and infrastructure development and it is also a free trade area for over 400 products. Malawi established diplomatic relations with Beijing on December 28, 2007 after severing ties with Taiwan with which it had relationship for 41 years. Meanwhile, the European Union (EU) has granted Malawi government K22.6 billion for rehabilitation and expansion 21 Community Day Secondary Schools to increase access to education. The funds will also be injected towards teachers' training. –(Additional Reporting by Yamikani Simutowe, Nyasa Times)

Congratulations Malawi for Chinese aid package, but …

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Mutharika during China visit

I have been trying so hard to avoid commenting on the recent aid package that our President and the DPP government boasts to have secured from China. My hesitation did not derive from the revelation that these deals were already stricken by former president Joyce Banda, but I was worried that, given our traditional understanding of aid and development, which usually ignores the big picture of the politics and economics associated with foreign assistance, somebody would think I do not appreciate the aid. [caption id="attachment_94201" align="alignright" width="600"]Mutharika during China visit Mutharika during China visit[/caption] But in the spirit of the recently launched, “REFORM TO TRANSFORM movement” which drives my soul, I am compelled to say, Congratulations to the government but... All these projects are mere political instruments and are common among leaders and governments in Africa and other developing Nations. What happens is that our leaders, and foreign governments and corporations strike deals which make huge money for foreign corporations and serve political interests of foreign governments. But then our leaders benefit by boosting their political image at home for the visible catchy infrastructure. Yet, majority local rural people, who endure much of the crushing weight of poverty, do not really benefit because such projects and deals do not address their “immediate” welfare needs. Look, most of these projects have nothing to do with the real challenges of the suffering majority in our villages. Our suffering grandparents, and mothers and children in our villages and rural centres need permanent food supply throughout the year. They need easily accessible clinics and hospitals with ever adequate medical supplies and enough professional medical practitioners. They need easily accessible education materials and facilities. They need ever flowing clean and safe water. They need substantial amount of money in their pockets to buy clothing, shoes, salt, sugar and access similar foundational necessities that address their immediate welfare. I know somebody does not agree with me, but ask yourself, what exactly are the priority needs of our people, and how exactly do these celebrated Chinese projects solve them? What about the jobless young people who roam our streets like useless homeless cats? What about those young people struggling with miserable jobs in our cities which do not pay them even enough to pay house rent? they walk several kilometres to and from work twice a day every day and cant even afford lunch at work etc? How do these projects solve their challenges? This is the class of people that our government must be directing its effort towards, at least in the immediate consideration. The struggling people need to be lifted up the ladder from the lower stratum of our society. Let me provoke you this way about these projects. Imagine, just for thinking purpose, they say, a hospital at Kameza? but are we sure there will be medicine in that hospital, and are we going to have nurses there since government cant employee anymore nurses? And if at all we might have some medical practitioners there, will they get salaries? What about the Technical colleges in question? After we have trained our youths, will the economy give them the jobs or business opportunities to utilize their acquired skills? Talk about the said, promotion of value addition activities at the Ministry of Industry and Trade? what value addition and to which services or products? We are ‘not really’ producing anything to add value to, not services and not products. The only important project that only attempts to address part of our basic need is the 300 megawatt “coal fired” power plant. Yes, we need extra generation of power and energy for industrial and domestic purposes. But this project has its major drawbacks too, especially in this age when the entire world is advocating for the abandonment of fossil fuels and espousing policies that promote clean energy projects to combat effects of the fatal global warming and environmental degradation. So we can do better on that too. Now, understand me very well. I am not saying these projects are trash and totally useless. My argument is that these are the type of projects which politicians across the developing world use just to manage their political image and entice votes while running away from implementing bold policies and initiatives which priorities interests of the poor people and address deep-rooted indigenous challenges for good.

PP wants credit for Chinese loans

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Joyce Banda with China veep

Former ruling People's Party (PP) says credit should also go to ex-president Joyce Banda for facilitating some of the loans and grants which China granted Malawi this week. [caption id="attachment_96633" align="alignright" width="592"]Joyce Banda with China veep Joyce Banda with China veep[/caption] PP officials told Nyasa Times Friday most of the loans and grants were signed two years ago. "For example, the 300 megawatt coal fired electricity plant was signed by our secretary general, Ibrahim Matola when he was minister of Energy and mines two years ago," said one official. PP members have also taken up the issues in the social media, saying there is nothing that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) can celebrate as the loans and grants were negotiated by the PP led government when the DPP was in opposition . The Kammwamba electricity power project is expected to reduce frequent power cuts which is affecting ordinary Malawians as well as investors, including Chinese investors. The Chinese also want to upgrade Chileka Airport in Blantyre and construct a dual carriage road from Kanengo to Mchinji roundabout in Lilongwe to ease congestion, among top projects in the multibillion dollar loans and grants package. There was no immediate response from the DPP or government on the PP assertions but some analysts say this shows there is continuation of development programs even if a party is booted out of power.

Chinese aid in Malawi viewed with mixed feelings: ‘The devil is in the details’

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Chisi: There are hidden strings

There are mixed feelings over China's new round of cooperation with Malawi amounting to $1.5 billion (about K855 billion) in various sectors, including building a cancer centre, increasing power generation capacity by 300 megawatts (MW) and construction of a modern Chileka International Airport within three years. [caption id="attachment_57888" align="alignright" width="560"]Chisi: There are hidden strings Chisi: There are hidden strings[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38990" align="alignright" width="534"]Mvula: No freeChinese lunch Mvula: No freeChinese lunch[/caption] During interviews on Capital Radio, critics ranging from University of Malawi dons, political commentators, politicians and analysts have been sharing mixed reaction to the Chinese aid. People who also spoke to Nyasa Times expressed different views with others saying Chinese were welcome as investors but not as “vendors or shoe-shiners”. They also noted that some Chinese are bringing bad habits as well as trade, investment, jobs and skills. No strings attached Happy Kayuni, Associate Professor and head of Political and Administrative studies at the University of Malawi, Chancellor College told Capital Radio that Malawi should “carefully look at strategic interests” of China. Kayuni said China “doesn’t ask issues of good governance” while Western donors “ensure that we improve our governance structures.” Malawi's President, Peter Mutharika, has declared himself satisfied with his government's relations with China and the development aid package. Mutharika said the Chinese projects come with "no strings attached". But Umodzi Party president John Chisi said there are “hidden” strings by the Chinese. “What we have heard is what Malawi is gaining But we have not heard what China is going to gain from this country,” said Chisi on the radio. “The Chinese might negotiate [to take control of] our minerals,” said Chisi, who was quick to add “I am speculating obviously.” Chisi said: “To say that there is no condition is not true. There is no way China can take their tax payers money and give Malawi for nothing. There is no free lunch. “ The politician who contested and flopped in the 2014 presidential polls said the government should come clean on what will China benefit from Malawi. “I have no problem with our President but I want our President to come clean. I don’t want to know that china is now controlling half of Malawi because of the grants. We cannot just be excited [the devil is in the details],” he said Economist and chairperson of Economist Association of Malawi, Henry Kachaje noted that China “tend to bring their own labour force” in their projects on jobs that can be handled by locals. “Its exciting thing that we are getting projects on the ground [but], we need jobs for Malawians,” he said. Parliament’s nod Political commentator Humphreys Mvula said parliament should be approving such grants and loans. “It is good to have a project in Malawi but I did expect such projects should go through parliament to approve the loan or grants. “It is supposed to be approved through a parliamentary presentation by Minister of Finance,” said Mvula. He also pointed out that Chinese do not give free money, saying for Beijing money it is given in exchange of what they will get out of the country. The Chinese aid comes barely days after Finance Minister Goodall Gondwe ruled out the coming back of Malawi traditional donors- from Western countries – to prop up the government of Malawi purse. Different breed Prominent newspaper columnist, George Kasakula who is also Editor-In-Chief of Malawi’s biggest media house, Times Group, wrote on his “Hitting Hard” column in Malawi News that the Chinese are a “different breed” of donors as locals find it hard to embezzle development funds. “ They don’t patronise anybody when they give you a loan to build something but, more importantly, they do all the work by themselves leaving no room for thieving civil servants to dip their dirty fingers into the kitty. “They are hard workers unlike some lazy bone compatriots and they will deliver the projects within the specified time. In short, when the Chinese promise and put pen to paper, they do not waste time but they deliver,” writes Kasakula. Usually money is put into escrow accounts in Beijing; then a list of infrastructure projects is drawn up, Chinese companies are given contracts to build them and funds are transferred to company accounts. The country gets development projects but no cash. At least that is the theory, according to The Economist. Kasakula cites the projects that China has put its mark on Malawi such as the country's first five-star hotel, $90m worth of well-appointed rooms, a state-of-the-art Bingu Conference Centre and 14 opulent presidential suites. Then the Bingu stadium in Area 47— “massive structure that we can all be proud of.” In his newspaper column, Kasakula also pointed out: “It is never lost on me that, these are loans that as a country, we will have to pay back to the Chinese but by all standards, they are wise investments.” Funded projects Of the seven projects only three are grants totalling $58 million (K33 billion) for the construction of the Blantyre District Hospital and Cancer Centre in Blantyre. The Blantyre District Hospital is set to be built at Kameza on the site where the abandoned Muammar Gaddafi Hospital Project was. The projects would be financed by China Exim Bank, main lenders, while most would be implemented by China Gezhouba Group Company Limited. Chinese aid figures are treated as state secrets. Exim Bank publish no figures about their vast loans to poor countries. Among the grants which China has made is $2 million (about K1.1 billion) for the procurement of police for the Malawi Police Service, construction of a technical teacher’s training college costing $5 million (about K2.8 billion) and construction of community technical colleges costing $6 million. Under the grants, China will also support technical services for the Bingu National Stadium for $1 million (K570 million), construction of a new Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation building amounting to $3 million and procurement of office equipment and furniture for the Ministry of Industry and Trade amounting to $1 million. China has pended for review road projects namely Tsangano-Neno-Mwanza Road, Mangochi-Makanjira Road and the upgrading of the Phombeya-Makanjira-Nkhotakota-Chatoloma 220 kv power line.

North Malawi query China’s aid projects: ‘We’ve been deprived’

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Dan Msowoya: North Malawi deprived

Leaders in the northern region in the arenas of religion, development and social science, politics and activism have taken turns in faulting the Malawi government for behaving “regionalist” in her manner of allocating USS1.3 million worth of development projects that are expected to be financed by the Chinese government. [caption id="attachment_55283" align="alignright" width="438"]Dan Msowoya: North Malawi deprived Dan Msowoya: North Malawi deprived[/caption] The seven projects which include the construction state-of-the-art international airport at Chileka in the commercial capital Blantyre, have opened a can of worms across the citizenry with some in defence of the state and others doing otherwise. This week, Minister of Information and government spokesperson Jappie Mhango defended government saying the northern region was “equally benefitting” from government development projects. Mhango cited the to-be constructed Karonga Stadium in Karonga and the University of Mombera in Mzimba, among others. But political activist and ex-Alliance for Democracy (Aford) secretary general Dan Msowoya quashed Mhango’s arguments saying “we’ve been deprived.” He told Nyasa Times that there was no guarantee that the money for construction of the stadium and the university in Karonga and Mzimba respectively was available. “And the projects are not actually part of the seven projects we’re talking about.” He added: “Actually, it took billions of kwacha to build the university at Ndata (private palace of late Bingu wa Mutharika), how can a mere K100 million build the so called Mombera University. And, we don’t know whether any money is available for the project[s].” Social commentator Gerrard Nkhata depriving the northern region of the projects was a “non-starter” not only for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) but also to the government of Malawi. “It is the most important part of Malawi in terms of minerals and closeness to Tanzania where the economy is growing at a supersonic speed,” he argued. Nkhata said “except for the electricity and internet projects, I would cancel all the projects. If I were government I would replace them with a railway to connect the North to the Centre. This would significantly help in transporting the minerals between the regions.”  Unconstitutional Msowoya described the allocation of the projects as being “unconstitutional.” He said: “I don’t remember the issue being ever tabled in parliament. If it were the question would have been why not in the north.” Msowoya then described politicians from the Northern Region “impotent” because they had failed to deliver. “They’re tamed. They cannot think on their own. Their impotence has been detrimental to development in the northern region,” he argued. He claimed in 1996 government secured a loan from the Kuwait Bank for the Mzimba-Kafukule-Njakwa Road but the money was diverted for the construction of a road in Mangochi during the United Democratic Front (UDF). “It was because of the same impotence of our leaders,” he argued. Msowoya, also a spokesperson for a forum advocating for a federal system of government in the country, said “all these should not have been issues if we were run by a federal system of government.” Government should listen Synod of Livingstonia General Secretary Levi Nyondo suggested “government should listen by rescinding its decision.” He said all the regions including the northern region looked up to government as their “mother.” But, he added, it was disappointing that government was not distributing the national cake equally. “They [government] have demonstrated that our [northern region] is not a priority.” Opposing views But UK-based social and development scientist Pearson Nkhoma said he had no problems with the projects. “This shows Malawi has more potential for investment. Government should now do more to attract Russia or Brazil to invest. “China cannot invest in every district. The Centre and the South are also part of Malawi. The development is happening in Malawi even if it were all allocated in Nsanje,” argued Nkhoma. Funded projects Of the seven projects only three are grants totalling $58 million (K33 billion) for the construction of the Blantyre District Hospital and Cancer Centre in Blantyre. The Blantyre District Hospital is set to be built at Kameza on the site where the abandoned Muammar Gaddafi Hospital Project was. The projects would be financed by China Exim Bank, main lenders, while most would be implemented by China Gezhouba Group Company Limited. Chinese aid figures are treated as state secrets. Exim Bank publish no figures about their vast loans to poor countries. Among the grants which China has made is $2 million (about K1.1 billion) for the procurement of police for the Malawi Police Service, construction of a technical teacher’s training college costing $5 million (about K2.8 billion) and construction of community technical colleges costing $6 million. Under the grants, China will also support technical services for the Bingu National Stadium for $1 million (K570 million), construction of a new Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation building amounting to $3 million and procurement of office equipment and furniture for the Ministry of Industry and Trade amounting to $1 million. China has pended for review road projects namely Tsangano-Neno-Mwanza Road, Mangochi-Makanjira Road and the upgrading of the Phombeya-Makanjira-Nkhotakota-Chatoloma 220 kv power line.

Chinese loans necessary for Malawi development: Economists back Mutharika

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Edward Chilima: Back Mutharika on Chinese loans

Malawi cannot construct a new airport at Chileka or increase power generation capacity without borrowing funds therefore the recent announcement by President Peter Mutharika to borrow $1.5 billion (K817.5 billion) from China to fund several infrastructure development projects, is a wekcome development, Economists Association of Malawi (Ecama) has said. [caption id="attachment_96955" align="alignright" width="396"]Edward Chilima: Back Mutharika on Chinese loans Edward Chilima: Back Mutharika on Chinese loans[/caption] The loans would be obtained from the Exim Bank of China. “If we don’t borrow, will we be able to construct an airport? It is a fact that we cannot raise our own resources and the loans will be for good intentions such as Blantyre District Hospital. Only if we were borrowing for consumption, then we would be in trouble,” Ecama executive director Edward Chilima said. Economist Chilima is quoted in The Nation newspaper saying comparatively, the public debt levels in relation to the GDP was currently on track. Among the Chinese projects is a 300 megawatts (MW) Kam’mwamba coal-fired power plant with a project cost of $667 million (about K387 billion) to be implemented by Gezhouba Group Corporation Limited of China. The other projects the President announced include the National Identity Cards (IDs) project worth $50 million (about K29 billion) and construction of a new Chileka International Airport in Blantyre at the cost of $285 million (about K165 billion). Ecama director has since asked the government to enhance domestic resource mobilisation so that our consumption budget is taken care of with domestically generated funds.. Meanwhile, the newspaper reports that Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development Goodall Gondwe would table Loan Authorisation Bills in Parliament in due course Nations Msowoya, Ministry of Finance’s spokesperson would not go into specifics of the loans such as repayment period and interest rates, but said the terms of Chinese loans were “standard”.

Bingu stadium ready by Nov 30 despite theft setbacks

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Bingu stadium In Lilongwe

The new 40 000-seater Bingu National Stadium being constructed in Lilongwe will be on course for completion by November 30, 2015,despite reports of theft of water pumps that were used for the ground. [caption id="attachment_96973" align="alignright" width="600"]Bingu stadium In Lilongwe Bingu stadium In Lilongwe[/caption] Chief Archtect in the Ministry of Sports McNight Munthali said the insecurity at the facility has led to the stoppage in watering the ground. Munthali has however advised Malawi Police Service to erect a 24 hour station at the stadium to ensure there is maximum security. But the government can afford a smile as the Chinese government through the contractors who have built the stadium will bring in new pumps shortly. According to Munthali, the pumps will be airlifted to Malawi since shipping takes over a long time. The fully Chinese funded project has faced theft challenges since the construction started both with both employees working at the stadium and people from surrounding areas involved in the scam. Reports indicates that thieves also recently stole electric cables used to lighten the stadium. Meanwhile, Football Association of Malawi (Fam) through its Executive Member James Mwenda have expressed satisfaction with the progress so far. Mwenda has since called upon all Malawians to take a responsibility of taking care of the multi-million dollar olympic stadium. E-ticketing Meanwhile, Ministry of Sports and Culture sports director Jameson Ndalama has said government has resolved that the Bingu stadium should be the first in the country to have the e-ticketing system as one way of eliminating rampant gate fraud. Ndalama said there are plans to have all stadiums in the country using e-ticketing system, starting withhe Bingu Stadium. He said e- will help to end gate fraud and congestion at the gates, saying “here will be no selling of tickets at the gates or around the stadium.”. According to Ndalama said the e-ticketing system would be run as a separate project from the construction of the stadium and government will call for bids from interested companies to managed the e-ticketing at the stadium.

North Malawi MPs to hold presser over ‘Chinese projects’

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Dan Msowoya: North Malawi deprived

Parliamentarians from the northern region are going to hold a press briefing to express their dismay over government’s distribution of various development projects that are going to be funded by the Chinese government, Nyasa Times has learnt. [caption id="attachment_55283" align="alignright" width="438"]Dan Msowoya: North Malawi deprived Dan Msowoya: North Malawi deprived[/caption] The seven projects, pegged at a whooping K1.3 million dollars, include the construction of Chileka International in the commercial capital Blantyre. One Member of Parliament (MP) said the press briefing would be “held during the first week” of the next session of the national assembly which reconvenes from tomorrow[Friday]. “We want to express as our reservations,” said the MP who refused that we publish his name. “What government has done has been unfair to us and actually is an insult to all of us who come from the northern region.” The legislator could not say whether their colleagues from the government side would be part of the presser. “We’ve extended an invitation to them, and we hope they should take heed of it so that we work in unison,” he said. Government spokesperson and information minister Jappie Mhango, who also comes from the northern region, was not immediately available for comment on Thursday. But he told local press last week that government was “justified” with the distribution of the projects. Commentators have bashed government especially Pres Peter Mutharika for the “unfair distribution.” Mutharika comes from the southern region tea growing district of Thyolo. Political commentator and former Alliance for Democracy (Aford) secretary general Dan Msowoya had told Nyasa Times that the northern region had been “deprived.” Msowoya, also a spokesperson for a forum that is advocating for a federal system of government in Malawi, added the distribution “justified” their calls that the country should “let go the present unitary system of government.” He had described it as system that was letting Malawi “down” both socially and economically.

Malawi gives special recognition to China on Remembrance Sunday

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President Mutharika receives wreath of poppy

Malawi government gave special recognition to China during the Remembrance Sunday of the two world war heroes on in Zomba. [caption id="attachment_97561" align="alignright" width="600"]President Mutharika receives wreath of poppy President Mutharika receives wreath of poppy[/caption] [caption id="attachment_97505" align="alignright" width="600"]Members of the diplomatic corps (Britain and South Africa) with their wreaths during the remembrance day.Pic-Francis Mphweya-MANA Members of the diplomatic corps (Britain and South Africa) with their wreaths during the remembrance day.Pic-Francis Mphweya-MANA[/caption] The Chinese ambassador to Malawi was given a chance to lay a wreath at the war memorial tower in Zomba representing his country. This was after the British High Commissioner to Malawi Michael Nevin and the South African High Commissioner to Malawi laid wreaths in Malawi’s old capital representing the diplomatic community in the country. The special recognition of China by the Malawi government came just days after President Peter Mutharika openly said the country's traditional European donors may not be returning to support the budgetary support although they might continue giving assistance outside the budget. The British envoy to Malawi, Nevin looked not much surprised as the Chinese ambassador to Malawi walked slowly, solemnly then placed his wreath at the cenotaph. The former colonial power, Britain was the major budgetary support donor for Malawi which accounted for 40 per cent of the total national budget. However, China has emerged to be ,Malawi's great donor and friend as the new world economic and political power and has constructed multibillion infrastructure developments in Malawi and have promised seven new projects that will propel Malawi to new development heights in a few years to come. President Peter Mutharika and opposition leader Lazarus Chakwera briefly united at the pillar to remember the heroes of World War I and World War II when the nation fell silent at 11am.

China writes off Malawi loans, wants tight security in Africa

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Look East sweet news: Malawi President Mutharika with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang

China has announced it is to write off all interest free loans and soft loans to Malawi and other African countries. [caption id="attachment_98506" align="alignright" width="480"]Look East sweet news: Malawi President Mutharika with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang Look East sweet news: Malawi President Mutharika with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang[/caption] The deputy Chinese ambassador to Malawi said this Tuesday in Lilongwe at a news conference ahead of Africa China summit to be held in South Africa in December and Malawi President Peter Mutharika will attend. The deputy ambassador said the move would accelerate development in Malawi and other African countries, most of whom are fighting chronic poverty, 50 years after independence. However the Chinese envoy could not say how much Malawi owes China in soft loans and interest free loans and ministry of Finance officials asked for more time to cross check the figures. China's assistance to Malawi has been growing steadily, he pointed out. The envoy said China has set aside US$2 billion for development activities in Africa and another US$12 billion to enhance trade with African countries and promised that China would remain a friend to the continent.. He said China wants to enhance security programmes in Africa so that the continent is a paradise of investment opportunities. China has emerged as an alternative lender to the International Monetary Fund for the poor African nations with no conditionalities. The Chinese aim to improve its ties to African countries on which it relies for oil, copper and other commodities that fuel China’s booming economy. But Beijing’s involvement has been criticized for resource-extraction projects accused of being exploitative, and for striking deals without adequate concern for human rights. Critics argue that Chinese investors should demand transparency and good governance before granting aid and financing development projects.

Malawi in coal-fired power plant MOU with China group: To boost economy

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Gondwe and the Chinese Amb,to Malawi,HE.Mr.Zhang Qingyang during the signing ceremony at Capital Hill - Pic by Stanley Makuti

Malawi on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with China Gezhouba Group Corporation (CGGC) to develop a coal-fired power plant at Kam’mwamba in Neno. [caption id="attachment_81712" align="alignright" width="448"]Gondwe and the Chinese Amb,to Malawi,HE.Mr.Zhang Qingyang during the signing ceremony at Capital Hill - Pic by Stanley Makuti Gondwe and the Chinese diplomatZhang Qingyang - Pic by Stanley Makuti[/caption] The 300-megawatt power plant is to be implemented at a cost of $600 million and will be the largest single development project Malawi has undertaken since it gained independence in 1964. Exim Bank of China will be the major financier of the project, while the Malawi Government will also contribute. Finance and Economic Development Minister, Goodall Gondwe, signed the MOU on behalf of the Malawi Government, while CGGC president Lv Zexiang, signed on behalf of his company at a ceremony held in Johannesburg, South Africa. Speaking during the signing ceremony, Gondwe said Malawi was one of the poorest countries in the world and that a project of such magnitude would help to move it out of poverty. “The aim of the government is that before we leave, Malawi should not be called poor,” he said. “This project will have a huge impact on the economy. It will double the amount of electricity.” Gondwe said Malawi had one of the lowest access to electricity in the world, and expressed the hope that with the planned fire-powered plant, there would be improvement in electricity supply. Malawi is currently experiencing power cuts on a daily basis, mainly due to dwindling water levels in the Shire River, the country’s main source of power supply. “We thank you for joining with us to undertake the biggest project we have ever done,” Gondwe told Lv (pronounced Lyu). “The experience we have is that Chinese do things fast and with little fuss.” He said President Peter Mutharika was “extremely thankful” to the Chinese government, adding that the Malawi government would fulfill every responsibility it shouldered in relation to the project. In his remarks, Lv described the Kam’mwamba coal-fired power plant as a very important project to the people of Malawi and government, saying it would solve the problem of power shortage in the country. “We wish that the project can start in the first few months of 2016,” Lv said, speaking through an interpreter. He said CGGC had taken “some steps to make the project happen” and that China’s Exim Bank was very positive “with the project.” CGGC, according to its brochure, is China’s number one water conservancy and hydropower brand and is today renowned both at home and abroad for its outstanding achievements in large-scale project construction. It is CGGC that carried out the famous the multibillion billion dollar, Three Gorges Water Conservancy in Yichang, Hubei Province, China, from 1993 to 2009 that generates 22,500 megawatts of electricity. Malawi has benefited immensely from China since it cut off 41 years of ties with Taiwan in 1997 and established diplomatic relations with mainland China. China regards Taiwan as part of it and has over the years tried to isolate the island diplomatically by offering incentives to its allies. China has over the past eight years given Malawi billions of kwacha for implementation of huge infrastructure projects such as parliament building in Lilongwe, the Karonga-Chitipa Road, University of Science and Technology in Thyolo, Bingu International Conference Centre and the Bingu Stadium in Lilongwe which is nearing completion. The MOU signing ceremony took place ahead of the Forum for China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit which starts in Johannesburg on Friday. Mutharika, who arrives in South Africa on Friday from the UK, will be among several African Heads of State and Government expected to attend the meeting, the first FOCAC summit on the continent. FOCAC is an official forum between China and the states of Africa. It was established in 2000 to promote bilateral ties and cooperation between China and Africa through dialogue. The theme for the Johannesburg FOCAC summit is ‘Africa-China Progressing Together: Win-Win cooperation for Common Development’.-Mana  

Mutharika says Malawi-China cooperation vital for modern development

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China's president Xi Jinping welcomes president Peter Mutharika to a breakfact meeting at the Michalloangelo Hotel, Johannesburg during the FOCAC summit. Pix Gospel Mwalwanda

Malawi President Peter Mutharika has said his government remains focused and committed to all development pacts and arrangements it has with China as it is the best way of improving local livelihoods through development of infrastructure and strengthening of institutions. [caption id="attachment_99193" align="alignright" width="600"]China's president Xi Jinping welcomes president Peter Mutharika to a breakfact meeting at the Michalloangelo Hotel, Johannesburg during the FOCAC summit. Pix Gospel Mwalwanda China's President Xi Jinping welcomes president Peter Mutharika to a breakfact meeting at the Michalloangelo Hotel, Johannesburg during the FOCAC summit. Pix Gospel Mwalwanda[/caption] [caption id="attachment_99192" align="alignright" width="600"]President Peter Mutharika at the China -Africa summit. Pix By Gospel Mwalwand President Peter Mutharika at the China -Africa summit. Pix By Gospel Mwalwand[/caption] Mutharika reiterated this focus during proceedings at the Forum For Africa-China Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Johannesburg on Saturday. “The China-Africa relationship has greatly benefited Malawi in particular and Africa in general,” said President Mutharika. He pointed out that since the inception of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation about 15 years ago, and the holding of Beijing FOCAC Summit in 2006, there has been  significant and tremendous progress. “Most of the activities enshrined under this platform for consultation and dialogue, are on track. As a nation, we are proud to note that the FOCAC Beijing Action Plan (2013-2015) is on course,”Mutharika said. In addition, the Malawi leader promised that Malawi intends to contribute earnestly to the progress of the corporation saying, “we are also looking forward to gaining more from the corporation. Above all, we look forward to learning great lessons from China and how you made yourselves a great nation. I believe any African country can do what China has done” He called upon fellow African leaders to take charge even in the presence of Chinese help as the destiny of Africa is better defined by localised priorities. “This China-Africa partnership needs to walk in that path of localisation of international goals and indigenization of policies. One of the saddest tragedies in most Africans is that we lost faith in ourselves, and stopped believing in ourselves, that we own the capacity to change our situation. “Africa needs partnerships that inspire this inner capacity and dignify our longing for self-dependence,” he said quoting Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe who advised African leaders saying “There are things one must do for oneself.” He pointed out how crucial Chinese cooperation is in line with post-Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) development blueprints such as the newly adopted Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs). China has since announced a package of new measures for cooperation with Africa in five key areas. These covered investment and financial cooperation, the African integration agenda, people-to-people relations, peace and security and development assistance. The eastern giant - which has so far injected some $220 billion into Africa - committed extra funds amounting $60 billion for infrastructure projects on the continent. On Friday, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced $60bn (£40bn) of assistance and loans for African states. He said the momentum of rapid growth in Africa was “unstoppable". He also proposed that China-Africa ties be upgraded to "a comprehensive strategic co-operative partnership". Speaking  on Saturday, Chinese President  said China firmly supported Africa's pursuit of independent sustainable development. Since Malawi shifted relations from Taiwan to China it has benefited in colossal infrastructure projects that include the Parliament building, a five star hotel, conference centre, presidential villas, a national stadium all in Lilongwe. Other projects are the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) in Thyolo. The second phase of Chinese projects is worth close to US $1 billion and has projects in energy, tourism, agriculture and manufacturing sectors. The Forum on China-Africa Co-operation (Focac) was the second time China has brought together African leaders since the forum was launched in Beijing in 2000.

Chinese traders wanted out of Mzuzu: Vendors threaten unspecified action

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A man browses through pairs of Chinese made shoes in a shop, 20 June 2006 in the downtown area of  Ugandan capital Kampala, known for imports of Chinese made footwear. The Prime Minister of China, Wen Jiabao, is currently on a seven-nation tour of Africa and arrives in Uganda on Friday 23rd June for a two-day visit to discuss bilateral cooperation and trade opportunities. AFP PHOTO / STUART PRICE.

A horde of disillusioned businesspersons in Mzuzu have ganged up with demands that they want all foreign traders, especially Chinese nationals owning retail shops, out on the basis that the latter are “frustrating” their businesses. [caption id="attachment_100799" align="alignright" width="600"]A man browses through pairs of Chinese made shoes in a shop, 20 June 2006 in the downtown area of  Ugandan capital Kampala, known for imports of Chinese made footwear. The Prime Minister of China, Wen Jiabao, is currently on a seven-nation tour of Africa and arrives in Uganda on Friday 23rd June for a two-day visit to discuss bilateral cooperation and trade opportunities. AFP PHOTO / STUART PRICE. A man browses through pairs of Chinese made shoes in a shop. AFP PHOTO / STUART PRICE.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_100798" align="alignright" width="450"]A Malawian hawker sells food outside a Chinese owned shop.-REUTERS/Ed Cropley A Malawian hawker sells food outside a Chinese owned shop.-REUTERS/Ed Cropley[/caption] The businesspersons, approximately over two hundred, say it is becoming increasingly difficult to compete with the foreigners as these, they claim, “choose to sell their goods at unbelievably low prices” and thereby “obstruct fair competition.” Spokesperson of the traders who are presently to have themselves registered as a group, Osman Kapida, singled out the Chinese as their “worst thorn in the flesh.” Kapida said that there is “a huge competition gap” that exists between the two sides. “They don’t care when they are setting up prices because they really don’t care about losses. But we do because in our businesses we always have got bank loans to re-pay, and lending rates in the country are exorbitant,” said Kapida. He pegged the current lending rates at forty nine to fifty per cent, and claimed for the foreign traders the rates can be “as low as one per cent.”  Not Protected Kapida blamed government for casting a blind eye on their predicament even despite the fact that they “know what is happening.” He said it was not “unfortunate” that the Ministry of Industry and Trade was not taking action on the matter. “We’re not protected,” he said. “We’re not, and it is frustrating.” According to the business laws of Malawi, foreigners are not supposed to engage directly with customers in retail businesses but rather on wholesale. Last year, Kapida claimed, they tried to petition government but the Ministry of Trade spokesperson at the time asked them “why they were complaining about the Chinese only.” But Kapida told Nyasa Times that they did so because it is the Chinese’s way of doing businesses that “hurts most. “Why can’t they do wholesale and let us by from them?” he queried.  Unspecified Action The grouping is since preparing a fresh petition with warning that should government not respond positively they will stage unspecified action. “We will not do anything for now. But should we notice that government is in no mood to support us, we will let them know how frustrated we are,” warned Kapida. In 2011, six Chinese shops were closed in Dedza because the owners were operating without permits. The local merchants said they could not compete with the Chinese businesspersons who flooded the market with cheap products. In 2012, businesspersons in Karonga expressed similar sentiments of the Chinese traders over the same. During the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the July 2011 anti-government protests, scores of people of Karonga blatantly said they had looted shops that belonged to the Chinese nationals because they “hate them.” Later, 33 vendors signed a petition that was presented to the District Commissioner which claimed that the Chinese were “suffocating” their businesses. Late president Bingu wa Mutharika, who initiated bilateral relations with China, always appealed to Malawians to be more positive of investment from Beijing, saying the Chinese government “has brought a lot of development in this country.” Ministry of Industry and Trade officials could not immediately comment .

Should Malawi really be celebrating a coal plant?

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Marching protestors heading to coal mine- Photo by Tiwonge Kumwenda, Nyasa Times

On December 3rd, 2015, I woke up to this feature article headline " Malawi in Coal Fired Power Plant MOU with China Group: To Boost Economy". The article quoted Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Goodall Gondwe, stating that the objective of the current government is to ensure that Malawi would no longer be called poor by the time they leave office. I must confess I like the enthusiasm demonstrated in this statement. [caption id="attachment_93967" align="alignright" width="600"]Marching protestors heading to coal mine- Photo by Tiwonge Kumwenda, Nyasa Times Marching protestors heading to coal mine- Photo by Tiwonge Kumwenda, Nyasa Times[/caption] However, despite all the bells and whistles that accompanied the signing of the agreement, it still looked to me like a host of complexities covered up in a few niceties. Stay with me, I will explain why. At first glance one would immediately think, of course, why did we not think of this earlier. These people are geniuses. This is it, a panacea to our endless energy woes. Imagine, no more blackout nightmares, no more inadequate energy generation that negatively impacts on direct foreign investment, on top of that, Malawi's dream of predominantly becoming a production based economy would no longer be a far fetched reality. Exciting news indeed, isn't it? Hold on a second, we are talking about burning coal right? Have we considered all the long-term effects of burning coal on the people living in the area earmarked for the plant? What about the surrounding environment? Have we considered the air, rivers and ground water? Where would villagers collect portable water from, if these sources get contaminated? Is this really worth it? In medicine, a patient is recommended to take prescribed medication if its therapeutic effect outweighs the adverse effects. My point is, does the benefit of burning coal in Kam'mwamba outweighs its negative effects on the inhabitants and their surrounding environment?  Mwatisitikuwombela Mfit iMmanja pamanepa?Are we not celebrating an investment in a future public health disaster? This comes on the heels of renewed calls for countries notorious for greenhouse gas emissions, such as China and the United States of America to systematically reduce their emissions. United States is working at investing into alternative renewable energy initiatives and shutting down most of its coal power plants.  China has committed to follow suit. In fact, just recently, China signed a climate-change agreement with the United States. According to the agreement, the two countries, who are also the world’s two largest greenhouse gas emitters promised to cap carbon pollution in 15 to 20 years. What this means is that China agreed to halt the growth of its carbon emissions by around 2030. If it meets that commitment, the country’s CO2 pollution will probably plateau at around 11 billion metric tons. Conversely, United States agreed to emit between 26 percent and 28 percent less CO2 by 2025 than it did in 2005, when it produced 7.1 billion metric tons of carbon. This is major development and great news to the environment. It is estimated that in 2010 alone china contributed over 22% of global green house emissions seconded by the U.S. at 15% whilst Malawi contributed zero percent. This is a great development for our country. It probably means Malawi has not done damage or polluted its environment yet. The aforementioned percentages did not come without a cost to U.S. and China. These countries have paid and continue to pay dearly for using energy generated from coal over the years. With all financial resources at their disposal they are still struggling to contain the adverse effects resulting from coal burning. Coal has negative impacts on public health. Clean air.org demystifies it this way. "Burning coal is a major source of fine particulate, acid rain, air toxics and greenhouse gases responsible for global warming. Links have been made between exposure to pollution from coal-burning power plants and serious health impacts such as heart disease, respiratory diseases and different types of cancers. Not only that, burning coal also contaminates drinking water with mercury and other metals". Does Malawi have a plan for how it’s going to dispose of hazardous coal combustion waste? If yes, can this administration articulate what it is to array our fears? The simple reasoning behind this argument is, if hazardous coal combustion waste is disposed of in unlined pits, dangerous chemicals like arsenic can leach into drinking water supplies causing catastrophic public health problems. Malawi has enough issues right now. Creating more issues is not in the interest of any upright thinking and patriotic Malawian. The country is in dire straits; nothing seems to be going right. People are looking for answers. Its apparent, pressure to demonstrate that the leadership is not on autopilot is palpable. However, you do not create a potentially hazardous and probably uncontainable problem to be seen as resolving the prevailing ones. This is pure madness. When one has a chronic condition and is desperate for cure, the temptation to fall for anything that promises relief, even if it means for a short period overlooking its long-term effects is really high. Malawi is at that point. The economy is profusely bleeding. Constituents are running out of patience. However, we still need you folks in public offices to keep your sanity and exercise extreme caution when coming up with solutions to pull the country out of this quagmire for the sake of our children and their children's children. As a country we need to understand why China has eventually become party to the climate-change agreement. In addition to being responsive to Global warming, China has been suffocating its own people. Today Beijing is nicknamed the masked city because if its citizens do not wear masks with filters it is almost impossible to breath. We are currently struggling to supply drugs to hospitals. We are grounding hospital emergency services and rationing food for patients. Can we afford to purchase masks for the entire Kam'mwamba or Neno population? I am not implying that Kam'mwamba will become Beijing immediately. We may not be able to live to see it but our children and their children likely will. Our Chinese counterparts are playing a double standard. Initiating and promoting green house gas emissions in Malawi, while reducing the same in their country? According to Scientific American, China's National Development and Reform Commission has laid out a plan to cope with climate change through the end of the decade. They are building more nuclear power plants, wind farms, hydroelectric dams and even to start employing more solar power, of which, the country installed 12 gigawatts worth in 2013. In fact, in 2013, more new clean energy sources were added to the grid in China than fossil fuel-fired power for the first time ever. China has added several hundred gigawatts worth of such clean energy, the Three Gorges Dam alone pumps out 22 gigawatts and also hopes to add as much as 1,000 gigawatts of these low-carbon emitting sources by 2030. I find this deceptive. They are not investing in coal burning power plants anymore. What is their explanation for not doing so? If China is serious about assisting struggling countries such as Malawi in boosting their energy production for economic growth and development, wouldn't it be intelligent to invest in energy infrastructure that would not be hazardous to the people and environment? Alternative energy such as wind and solar will do just exactly that. I seriously think President Peter Muthalika administration should take another look at this. Let us tread carefully.

China calls on Malawians to develop industrious spirit

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Chaponda and Chinese Ambasssador having a feel of the water

The Chinese Ambassador to Malawi, Zhang Qingyang has urged Malawians to develop entrepreneurial spirit and venture into small scale businesses to help strengthen the country's ailing economy. [caption id="attachment_101657" align="alignright" width="600"]Chaponda and Chinese Ambasssador having a feel of the water Chaponda and Chinese Ambasssador having a feel of the water[/caption] [caption id="attachment_101658" align="alignright" width="600"]Chaponda and Chinese Ambassador to Malawi Chaponda and Chinese Ambassador to Malawi[/caption] Chinese envoy made the call when he officially handed-over two bore holes to Lufaneti and Khwiliro villages in Mulanje South West Constituency, whose Parliamentarian is Dr. George Chaponda, also Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The two facilities will be benefit over 350,000 people in area, according to Traditional Authority (T/A) Mthiramanja. Ambassador Qingyang urged the communities to be industrious, observing no country can achieve sustainable economic growth without diversifying trade with small businesses. "You may wish to know that China is doing well because of the hard-working spirit of its people. People in China are very industrious and they don't just wait for government's interventions to uplift their welfare. "Small scale businesses play a pivotal role to emerging economies and Malawi require more small scale businesses to advance its economy," said Ambassador Qingyang. He therefore said his government is committed to supporting such initiative, apart providing the nation with funds for various development projects. In his remarks, Chaponda described the Chinese Ambassador Qingyang as Malawi's true friend. He also hailed the People's Republic of China's support in transforming the country's socioeconomic landscape. The Foreign Affairs Minister further said since the establishment of the relationship in 2007, China has become Malawi's true friend and has assisted in financing, infrastructure development; capacity building and disaster relief and risk management, among others. "I am also very certain that China will assist us in terms of food security. At the moment, dry spells have damaged our crops and this will certainly to lead to food challenges. "We require Chinese government's support in our interventions and efforts to support the rural masses," said Chaponda. He added, "His Excellency Qingyand is not just an Ambassador, but also a good friend. He could have easily delegated and asked officials from his office to come, but he has traveled to be part of this ceremony and appreciate challenge being faced here. "They have transformed the landscape of Malawi and they will certainly continue doing good work for the betterment of Malawians."

Chinese man arrested in Malawi over K4.2mil forex

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CHINA HANDCUFF

Malawi Police at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) in Lilongwe on Thursday foiled an attempt by a Chinese national to illegally externalise foreign exchange worth K4.2 million to China. KIA Police spokesperson Sapulain Chitonde told Malawi News Agency (Mana) the suspect, Liqiong Chen, was scheduled to travel to China on flight number SA171 through South Africa and she was arrested at the Departures Lounge after a search of her hand luggage revealed that she was carrying something in the bag “worth a closer look”. He said: “When our officers suspected something fishy, they searched the bag thoroughly and found foreign currency hidden at the underside of the bag. The foreign currency comprised 4 175 British pound and 175 euro, all totalling about K4.2 million.” Chitonde said Liqiong failed to produce supporting documents for the foreign currency, hence the arrest. Liqiong is 42 and comes from Fujian City in China, but lives in Mapale Location in Mzuzu, according to police. The suspect is expected to appear before court soon to answer two counts of attempting to transfer foreign currency contrary to Section 11 of the Exchange Control Act of the Reserve Bank of Malawi and illegal possession of foreign currency contrary to Section 25 of the same Act. Liqiong’s arrest came barely three days after Mana reported another arrest of Lufeyo Chitukula on Monday evening at the same airport when he attempted to externalise to South Africa, 96 200 rand (over K3.8 million) hidden underneath his hand luggage.

China foreign minister on day visit to Malawi: To hold talks with Mutharika, Chaponda

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Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi: Visits Malawi

Malawi President Peter Mutharika is Sunday hosting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi who visits the country for a day to discuss how to implement the outcomes of Johannesburg summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and to align priority cooperation areas and projects. [caption id="attachment_102448" align="alignright" width="600"]Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi: Visits Malawi Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi: Visits Malawi[/caption] The visit is designed to strengthen economic ties between Lilongwe and Beijing -- including Chinese investment in the Malawi and commercial ties between the two countries. Apart from meeting Mutharika, the Chinese Foreign Minister’s visit will see him holding bilateral talks with his local counterpart, George Chaponda, according to a statement released by the Chinese Embassy in Lilongwe. “The visit and the subsequent bilateral talks aim at cementing the cordial relationship between the two countries, which have just celebrated seven years of diplomatic ties. “It comes at an opportune time when there are intense visits between the two countries. Therefore, the Chinese foreign minister’s visit takes the ties to new heights as China continues to position itself in Africa by promoting the win-win situation,” said the embassy’s spokesperson Wang Junchao. Wang’s visit marks the beginning of his first leg of tour of Africa that will see him visit  Mauritius, Mozambique and Namibia, before attending a Syria donors conference in London on February 4. This is the second Chinese foreign minister to visit Malawi since Beijing and Lilongwe established diplomatic ties in 2009. During the China-Africa Cooperation summit in early December, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed 10 major cooperation plans for the next three years in such areas as industrialization, agriculture, infrastructure, green development, and poverty reduction.
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