Rumphi teacher Christopher Mkandawire jailed 10 years over raw ivory possession

MZUZU-(MaraviPost)-First Grade Magistrate’s Court in Rumphi has sentenced Christopher Mkandawire, a 58-year-old primary school teacher, to 10 years in prison for possessing three pieces of raw ivory.

Mkandawire was arrested on September 24, 2025, at Bolero Trading Centre, along with Abel Phiri and his son Chisomo Mkandawire, while attempting to sell the contraband.

The court heard that Mkandawire pleaded guilty to the charges and begged for leniency, citing his advanced age and loss of retirement benefits.

However, Magistrate Cuthbert Phiri noted that illegal wildlife trade is rampant in the Bolero area and handed down the sentence to serve as a deterrent.

Abel Phiri, who claimed to be the sole breadwinner for his family, also received a similar sentence of 10 years with hard labor.

His accomplice, Chisomo Mkandawire, was acquitted due to lack of evidence linking him to the crime.

The court proceedings revealed that the ivory trade remains a significant threat to wildlife conservation efforts.

According to the US Fish & Wildlife Service, international trade in African elephant ivory is prohibited under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and those found guilty of violating these laws face severe penalties.

This case highlights the importance of continued efforts to combat wildlife trafficking in Malawi.

The sentence handed down to Mkandawire and Phiri serves as a warning to those involved in such activities that the law will take its course.

The acquittal of Chisomo Mkandawire brings to light the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in prosecuting wildlife crimes, where evidence is often difficult to gather.

In light of this development, it’s worth noting that Malawi has been working to strengthen its wildlife conservation laws and protect its endangered species.

The outcome of this case demonstrates the government’s commitment to tackling wildlife trafficking and protecting the country’s natural heritage.

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Malawi FA appoints Frenchman Yvon Avry as new Technical Director

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has announced the appointment of French football expert Yvon Avry as its new Technical Director, filling the position left vacant after the departure of Benjamin Kumwenda earlier this year.

Avry’s appointment follows a highly competitive recruitment process that attracted 17 applicants from across the globe.

After an initial shortlisting and interviews conducted on 23rd September 2025, a panel comprising representatives from FAM’s Technical, Administrative and Human Resources departments selected Avry as the top candidate based on his exceptional qualifications, international exposure and a clear technical vision aligned with FAM’s developmental goals.

A seasoned football technician, Avry holds a UEFA A Diploma from the French Football Federation (FFF) and brings vast experience in football development and administration.

His impressive résumé includes serving as Technical Advisor for the Fédération Malagasy the Football (FMF) and as Technical Director for Fosa Juniors FC in Majunga, Madagascar.

Before his stint in Madagascar, Avry was Technical Director for the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) between July 2017 and July 2018, where he played a key role in establishing youth development structures and implementing coaching education programs.

Between 2007 and 2021, Avry also worked with FIFA as a Technical Consultant and Instructor, contributing to several global football development initiatives an experience that is expected to bring a strong international perspective to Malawi’s football structures.

According to FAM, Avry is set to officially assume office on 3rd November 2025, where he will be responsible for overseeing all technical and development programs under the association’s “Transforming the Game” Strategic Plan.

His primary tasks will include enhancing coach education, strengthening youth football systems and improving talent identification and development across the country.

FAM expressed confidence that Avry’s appointment will help elevate the technical standards of the game in Malawi, fostering a more structured and sustainable football development pathway from grassroots to elite level.

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Malawi’s prosperity lies in the harmonious dance of DPP leadership, MCP opposition

The hard truth is that Malawi’s economic and political fortunes have always found their brightest dawn when the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) holds the reins of government while the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) embraces its vital role in opposition.

This balance, akin to a finely tuned symphony, produces a harmony that propels the nation’s development forward with vigor and clarity.

Conversely, the past five years stand as a stark testament to what happens when this natural order is disrupted—a period marked by economic decay, rampant corruption, and political confusion.

It is no exaggeration to say that the last five years were a wasted chapter in Malawi’s history.

The hard truth is that when MCP assumed power and DPP found itself in opposition, the nation’s economy faltered under the weight of mismanagement and unfulfilled promises.

The economic machinery sputtered and stalled, leaving hardworking Malawians grappling with shrinking opportunities and growing uncertainty.

Corruption, like a spreading wildfire, ravaged public trust and resources, while theft and misappropriation grew unchecked. This was not merely a lapse in governance but a profound breaking of the chain that once linked prosperity to responsible leadership.

The presidency of Lazarus Chakwera, though heralded with hope, revealed cracks that widened into chasms.

The hard truth is that under his watch, instead of the promised renaissance, Malawi saw its foundations weakened.

The government failed to curb the rot within its ranks, giving corruption free rein and allowing theft to flourish with impunity. The dream of progress was clouded by the harsh reality of inefficiency and compromised integrity.

In this environment, the nation’s economic pulse slowed, and the bright prospects for development dimmed.

Yet, the fault did not lie with the ruling party alone. The opposition’s role, crucial as the nation’s checks and balances, was equally compromised.

The hard truth is that the DPP, during these years, failed to wield its opposition mantle with the strength and conviction expected of a party carrying the hopes of millions.

Kondwani Nankhumwa, who emerged as the leader of opposition, was a figure of notable weakness—an unprecedented occurrence in Malawi’s political history.

His tenure was marked not by fierce accountability or robust challenge but by a puzzling softness that saw him praised by the very government he was meant to scrutinize.

This was no coincidence but a clear indication that the opposition’s fire had been doused, leaving the ruling party’s excesses largely unchecked.

The internal discord within DPP, where Nankhumwa’s leadership was not supported by stalwarts like Arthur Peter Mutharika, compounded this failure.

The hard truth is that this misalignment within the opposition ranks allowed MCP’s government to operate with little resistance, further exacerbating the nation’s woes.

Instead of acting as a vigilant watchdog, the opposition became a shadow of itself, its voice muted and its purpose betrayed.

Such a scenario was a dangerous precedent for Malawi, threatening the democratic fabric that underpins national progress.

However, nature, in its wisdom, has corrected this anomaly.

The hard truth is that with DPP’s return to power, Malawi has been restored to its rightful political and economic alignment—a configuration that history and experience have validated time and again.

The DPP, with its visionary leadership and commitment to national development, has rekindled the flame of hope and progress.

Its governance style, marked by decisive action and a clear agenda, resonates deeply with the aspirations of Malawians across all walks of life.

Simultaneously, MCP has been repositioned to its natural role as a formidable opposition, tasked with holding the government to account and offering alternative visions with constructive critique.

This dynamic tension, far from being a source of instability, is the lifeblood of a thriving democracy. It fosters transparency, encourages innovation, and ensures that no single entity wields unchecked power.

The hard truth is that this balance between ruling party and opposition is not merely a political convenience but a cornerstone of Malawi’s potential to flourish.

Malawi stands at a pivotal crossroads, with the promise of a future radiant with possibility.

The hard truth is that this promise can only be realized if the current status quo is preserved—if the DPP continues to govern with the mandate of the people and MCP embraces its critical role in opposition with integrity and vigor.

To deviate from this path would be to invite chaos, stagnation, and a reversal of the hard-won gains now beginning to take root.

The citizens of Malawi, resilient and proud, deserve nothing less than a government that drives development and an opposition that challenges with purpose.

The hard truth is that the DPP embodies the torchbearer of progress and stability, guiding the nation through the storms of uncertainty toward the shores of prosperity.

Meanwhile, MCP’s rightful place in opposition is not a demotion but a vital function in the democratic ecosystem—one that ensures accountability and nurtures a competitive spirit essential for growth.

For the sake of generations yet unborn, for the honor of Malawi’s rich heritage and boundless potential, it is imperative that this political equilibrium be maintained for the next sixty years and beyond.

The hard truth is that nature’s correction is not an accident but a deliberate restoration of order, a reestablishment of the conditions under which Malawi can soar to unprecedented heights.

In this grand narrative, Malawi is not merely a country navigating political tides; it is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of strong leadership, democratic accountability, and collective aspiration.

The hard truth is that when these elements align—when DPP governs with vision and MCP opposes with purpose—Malawi’s destiny is nothing short of greatness.

Let no voice sow discord by attempting to alter this delicate balance. Let no ambition blind the nation to the lessons etched in the annals of its recent past.

The hard truth is that Malawi’s future brilliance depends on the steadfast maintenance of this political symbiosis, a truth as enduring as the sun’s rise and as vital as the air Malawians breathe.

In the luminous glow of this hard truth, the path forward is clear: cherish the DPP as the beacon of national progress, respect the MCP as the guardian of democratic integrity, and together, forge a Malawi that stands tall—resilient, prosperous, and proud—on the world stage.

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Mulhako wa Alhomwe: Preserving culture, promoting unity, and strengthening identity

…An in-depth analysis of Malawi’s annual Lhomwe cultural festival and its role in fostering heritage, community cohesion, and national pride.

The Mulhako wa Alhomwe Annual Festival is one of Malawi’s most prominent cultural gatherings, held each year to celebrate the heritage, traditions, and identity of the Lhomwe people.

Its primary purpose is to preserve and promote the rich cultural practices, values, and language of the Lhomwe community, ensuring that younger generations remain connected to their roots.

The festival provides a platform for traditional leaders, elders, and community members to come together and showcase music, dances, folklore, and rituals that have been passed down through generations.

Beyond cultural preservation, Mulhako wa Alhomwe serves as a unifying force, bringing together members of the Lhomwe community from across Malawi and the diaspora, fostering a sense of belonging and collective pride.

The event also functions as an educational platform, where attendees, especially youth, learn about the history, customs, and social structures that define the Lhomwe identity.

Economically, the festival stimulates local business and tourism, as it attracts visitors, vendors, and performers, thereby contributing to the growth of Mulanje District and surrounding areas.

Politically and socially, Mulhako wa Alhomwe often provides a forum for dialogue between traditional authorities, government representatives, and the public, promoting community development and cooperation.

The festival emphasizes values such as unity, respect for elders, communal responsibility, and cultural continuity, reinforcing social cohesion within the Lhomwe community.

Over the years, Mulhako wa Alhomwe has gained national recognition, highlighting the importance of Malawi’s diverse ethnic and cultural landscape, while promoting tolerance and mutual respect among different communities.

In my opinion, the festival goes beyond mere celebration; it is a vital instrument for cultural preservation, civic education, and nation-building. It reminds us that honoring our heritage is not only about remembering the past but also about strengthening our identity and guiding our collective future.

Mulhako wa Alhomwe, therefore, stands as a testament to the resilience and pride of the Lhomwe people, offering both inspiration and a sense of purpose to all Malawians who value culture, unity, and progress.

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Why Bowen Yang Missed Saturday Night Live’s Latest Season 51 Episode

Bowen Yang missed the latest Saturday Night Live season 51 episode.

“Missing the show tonight but it will be sooooo fun,” Yang, 35, revealed via his Instagram Story on Saturday, October 18.

The musician wished good luck to Sabrina Carpenter, who hosted and served as the musical guest for the episode, by adding: “Sab is amazing.”

Yang wasn’t completely absent from Saturday’s episode as he contributed to the writing and also filmed a pre-taped sketch prior to leaving New York City, according to multiple reports.

3 Ways ‘SNL’ Season 51 Resets the Stage

The comedian skipped SNL’s latest live show in order to accept the Vantage Award at an Academy Museum of Motion Pictures gala held at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles. The prestigious award is given to artists who challenge traditional narratives around film.

The annual ceremony also featured Bruce Springsteen receiving the Legacy Award for his contributions to film music, while Penélope Cruz was given the Icon Award.

“The Academy Museum gala is a special evening dedicated to bringing together individuals to champion the celebration, advancement and preservation of cinema,” Academy Museum director and president Amy Homma announced in July. “As we gather for a fifth year, we are honored to recognize Penélope Cruz, Walter Salles, Bruce Springsteen and Bowen Yang — storytellers whose influence has been proven to resonate in film and beyond. We are so thankful to founding supporters of the museum, including our partner Rolex, for their long-standing commitment to cinema, and our co-chairs for hosting this important event.”

GettyImages-2241605944 bowen yang misses snl season 51 episode
Bowen Yang on October 18, 2025 at Academy Music gala. Michael Buckner/WWD via Getty Images

Entertainment Weekly reported that Yang received permission well in advance to skip Saturday’s episode so he could be in Los Angeles for the Academy event.

Despite speculation that Yang would leave SNL after season 50, he surprised many by signing up for his sixth season on the sketch show. (Veteran Saturday Night Live cast members Devon Walker, Michael Longfellow, Heidi Gardner and Ego Nwodim all left before season 51 kicked off earlier this month.)

Yang later told People in September that SNL creator Lorne Michaels personally encouraged him to come back for another year.

4 Casting Shifts Reshaping ‘SNL’ Season 51

“I’ve always gone by the instinct of, do I have more to do? And I feel like I do,” Yang said. “Even Lorne and I talked about it, and Lorne was like, ‘You have more to do,’ and that means a lot, because I even confessed to him. I was like, ‘I feel the audience is maybe getting sick of me.’ And he was like, ‘That’s not true. There’s more for you to do. I need you.’”

Asked whether it was bittersweet to return without several of his colleagues, Yang replied: “What I’ve always thought, what I think everybody knows, is that SNL is this boot camp, and that implies that there is a next phase you train for something else. It’s always a transitional place, and I think it is always a launching pad.”

“Even for people who stay on the show, like Kenan [Thompson], let’s say, he has still used that show to help expand his possibilities,” Yang went on. “I think that’s going to be true for all of the people who aren’t coming back. I’m so excited to see what they do. I’m excited for the new cast.”

Saturday Night Live’s next new episode airs November 1 on NBC at 11:30p.m ET with host Miles Teller and musical guest Brandi Carlile. SNL has announced that comedian Nikki Glaser and sombr will appear November 8, while Glen Powell and Olivia Dean are booked for the November 15 episode.

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Celebs Who’ve Been Host and Musical Guest on the Same ‘SNL’ Episode

Being asked to host or perform on an episode of Saturday Night Live is a big deal in and of itself — but even more so when a star gets the chance to do both in one night.

Harry Styles joined the impressive club in November 2019, making fans laugh in several sketches before crooning his hit songs “Lights Up” and “Watermelon Sugar” for the Studio 8H crowd.

“It is so great to be here hosting Saturday Night Live for the first time. I’m so excited to be here as more than just a musical guest, [it] feels amazing,” Styles — who previously performed on the NBC show four times — gushed in his monologue. “It feels like when you find out someone likes you as more than just a friend. Saturday Night Live and I have taken things to the next level and just like all my serious relationships, we’re all gonna spend one incredible night together, and then we’ll never see each other again.”

While Styles insisted that music was his No. 1 priority, he still had room for busting out his comedy chops, spending time with loved ones and having great hair. “I love being here at SNL. It has so much history,” Styles gushed.

Scroll below for a look back at which stars have been both the SNL host and musical guest during the same episode:

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Paul Stanley Grabs Package in L.A. Days After Ace Frehley’s Death

Paul Stanley’s back out in the world after the death of his longtime friend and bandmate, Ace Frehley … running errands in Beverly Hills days after his passing. The singer-songwriter stepped out on Saturday, holding a FedEx package under his arm…

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Cycling for Climate Justice caravan hits Lilongwe streets ahead of COP30

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-On Saturday, October 18, 2025 youths across the country matched while others cycled for Climate Justice caravan in the capital Lilongwe.

The caravan pedaled through Lilongwe’s townships, carrying placards with strong message of environmental awareness ahead this year’s COP30 Summit slated for November in Brazil.

The National Youth Network on Climate Change (NYNCC) with support from Oxfam Malawi mobilised about 60 cyclists for the event under the theme, “Riding for Climate Justice”.

Oxfam Project Coordinator, Kondwani Mubisa, the initiative aims to amplify the voices of young Malawians who continue to bear the brunt of the climate crisis.

Mubisa expressed satisfaction over strong environmental messages being delivered to the general public including the country’s authorities.

“This is not just a mere show but a commitment and dedication towards managing our environment.

“We support this noble course for the good of our nation that youth voices be held ahead of COP30 Summit scheduled for Brazil next month”,says Mubisa.

Echoing the same, NYNCC National Coordinator, Dominic Nyasulu, said the caravan is part of a broader regional initiative that seeks to mobilize African youth voices ahead of COP30.

Nyasulu says, “We are going to consolidate all messages and present to Malawi authorities for their input into COP30 Summit discussions.

“It’s our hope Young people’s and children voices will make inroads into Summit discussions for practical solutions in addressing impact of climate change in poor nations”.

According to position paper for the Cycling for Climate Justice caravan, observes that despite contributing less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, people in Africa are enduring some of the harshest effects of the climate crisis.

“Malawi stands as one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. Over the past decade, our nation has faced recurring droughts, flash floods, and devastating cyclones such as Cyclone Freddy, which displaced hundreds of thousands, destroyed energy infrastructure, and set back our development by years.

“These climate shocks worsen an already fragile energy situation. Around 74% of Malawians lack access to electricity. Rural communities remain in the dark, most schools operate without power, and many hospitals struggle to perform critical services”, reads the paper in part.

Over 90% of households in Malawi still depend on charcoal and firewood for cooking This is driving deforestation and worsening the country’s climate vulnerability.

Meanwhile, Malawi’s grid electricity is heavily dependent on hydropower, which is itself threatened by reduced water flows caused by climate change.
This is the reality we live with. A twin crisis of energy poverty and climate vulnerability.

“Yet despite the urgency, Malawi faces a massive financing gap in implementing its climate and energy commitments.

“The country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) estimate that Malawi needs over USD 41 billion to implement its mitigation and adaptation actions by 2040.However, little has been mobilized to date,” adds the document.

It observes further, “While we commend development partners and climate funds for their support, the truth remains: financing is neither sufficient, predictable, nor accessible.

“Too often, funds come as loans instead of grants, deepening the debt burden of countries that have contributed the least to the problem”.

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Eric Trump Says ‘They’ Tried to Kill Donald Trump Just Like Charlie Kirk

Eric Trump’s unhappy with the investigation into the attempt on his father’s life … and, he seems to be indicating there’s widespread conspiracy surrounding it. The son of President Donald Trump made an appearance on CNN Sunday to promote his new…

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