Trailblazer in Malawi: Dr. Jane Ansah Ascends to Vice Presidency

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-From the lecture halls of Chancellor College in the 1970s to the nation’s second-highest office, Dr. Jane Ansah’s journey is one of determination, excellence, and groundbreaking achievement.

At 70, she now becomes only the second woman in Malawi’s history to hold the Vice Presidency, following in the footsteps of Dr. Joyce Banda.

For many, her appointment represents more than a personal milestone; it marks progress in the ongoing push for gender equality in Malawian politics.

Academic Brilliance Lays the Foundation

Dr. Ansah’s career began with a law degree (LLB) from Chancellor College in 1978, placing her among the generation of legal professionals who would shape Malawi’s justice system.

Her quest for expertise took her overseas, earning an LLM in International Human Rights from SOAS, University of London in 1996.

She later completed a PhD in International Human Rights from the University of Nottingham in 2002, solidifying her reputation as a leading authority in constitutional and human rights law.

Additional training, including legislative drafting in Canberra (1980) and a Certificate in Judicial Administration from RIPA, UK (1992), equipped her with skills that would serve Malawi’s institutions for decades.

A Legal Career Marked by Firsts

Starting as a State Advocate in 1978, Dr. Ansah steadily climbed the legal ladder, becoming a High Court Judge in 1997.

In 2006, she broke barriers as Malawi’s first female Attorney General, setting a precedent for women in leadership.

She joined the Malawi Supreme Court of Appeal in 2011, serving with distinction until 2020.

As Chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission from 2016 to 2020, she managed some of the country’s most politically charged elections, demonstrating resilience and neutrality under intense scrutiny.

A Voice Beyond Malawi

Dr. Ansah’s leadership has extended to the regional and international stage.

She was Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Board on Corruption (2008–2011) and later chaired the AU Meeting of Ministers of Justice and Attorneys General (2010–2012).

Domestically, she led Malawi’s Special Commission on the Citizenship Act in 2016, helping align national laws with modern human rights standards.

She is also an accomplished author, with her 2012 work The Right to Development and the Malawian Law being a key reference on law and human rights.

Her writings tackle customary law, women’s rights, and children’s rights, challenging policymakers to leverage the law for social empowerment.

Political Emergence and Vice Presidency

Dr. Ansah officially entered politics in August 2024, joining the Democratic Progressive Party at its NGC convention.

She ran for the Ntcheu North-West parliamentary seat in the 2025 general elections.

Later, she became the running mate to DPP presidential candidate Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika.

Their victory on September 16, 2025, secured her the Vice Presidency.

Faith, Family, and Cultural Leadership

Beyond her professional and political career, Dr. Ansah is grounded in her Christian faith and family.

Married to Bishop Dr. Joseph Addo Ansah since 1983, they co-lead Christ-Citadel International Church and have three children.

She also serves as a Senior Pastor and Reverend, blending spiritual guidance with public service.

Her Ngoni heritage is central to her identity, serving as an Impi (envoy) to Paramount Chief Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani V of Ntcheu since 2013.

A Symbol of Progress and Inspiration

Dr. Ansah’s ascent to the Vice Presidency combines legal acumen, political experience, spiritual leadership, and cultural rootedness.

Her story inspires Malawian women and girls to aspire to leadership roles in a society where gender barriers remain significant.

From the classrooms of Chancellor College to Malawi’s highest courts and now to the Vice Presidency, Dr. Ansah’s journey embodies both the progress and ongoing challenges in Malawi’s pursuit of democracy and gender equality.

Her rise is not just a personal triumph but a reflection of the nation’s ongoing effort to embrace inclusive leadership and empower women in governance.

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Castel Malawi invests MK30 million in sanitation at Namalimwe school

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Castel Malawi Limited has constructed new toilets worth MK30 million at Namalimwe Primary School in Blantyre, restoring sanitation for over 1,000 learners who lost the facilities after Cyclone Freddy destroyed the old ones.

Speaking during the handover ceremony on Friday, Castel Malawi Human Resources and Corporate Affairs Director, Gloria Zimba, said the company was compelled to act after receiving an appeal from the school.

“As a company, we are deeply rooted in this community. Many of our employees live here, and their children attend these schools. Investing in sanitation and education is investing in our future workforce and leaders,” said Zimba.

Zimba said the project has provided separate toilet blocks for boys and girls, each with two functional toilets.

“The initiative is part of Castel Malawi’s ongoing commitment to the Ndirande community. The company has previously supported the area during Cyclone Freddy, donating items worth over K10 million to victims, and assisted the Ndirande Health Centre and other facilities during the cholera outbreak,” said Zimba.

She then reassured the community that Castel Malawi will remain a partner.

“This is not the end; we will continue looking for opportunities to support the communities where we operate. These children are our future, and together we can help them aim higher,” said Zimba.

Representing the Primary Education Advisory officer, Milliam Mtukane commended Castel Malawi for stepping in at a time when the school was at its lowest point.

“Before these new facilities, learners were forced to use the bush because most of the toilets had collapsed. This exposed them to serious health and sanitation risks. Now, with these new toilets, we expect improved hygiene and better school attendance. We will also be sensitizing learners on how to properly use and care for the facilities, while cleaners will ensure they are maintained daily,” said Mtukane.

One of the pupils, Alex Mwamadi, said the new sanitation facilities have already transformed the school environment, giving students a sense of dignity and safety.

“We used to fear coming to school because the toilets were broken, and the ground was unsafe and dirty. Now we feel safe, and more learners are coming to class. We thank Castel Malawi for helping us,” said Mwamadi.

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Taylor Swift Seems to Blast Travis Kelce’s Ex, Kayla Nicole, on New Album

Taylor Swift’s handling all family business on her new album … ’cause it appears she took the opportunity to take shots at Travis Kelce’s ex, Kayla Nicole. “The Life of a Showgirl” dropped late last night, and Swifites have combed through the…

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Chakwera, Zamba barred from attending Mutharika’s inauguration

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera and Secretary to the President and Cabinet (SPC) Colleen Zamba are reportedly been barred from attending the Swearing-In and Inauguration Ceremony scheduled of Peter Mutharika as new head of state and government.

The event is slated for Saturday October 4, 2025 at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre

According to sources from State House and Ministry of Information who asked for anonymity, some members of the inauguration organising committee said that despite Zamba chairing, especially those from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), do not want Chakwera and Zamba at the event.

DPP members told The Nationonline that both Chakwera and Zamba are not wanted because “it is none of their business, this is about the new government.”

Chakwera conceded defeat to Mutharika last week and has since then demonstrated statesmanship by committing to a smooth handover of power.

Chakwera was even expected to attend Mutharika’s inauguration and pass on the baton to him.

Efforts to talk to Jean Mathanga and Peter Mukhito, both members of committee from the DPP, proved futile as their phones were unreachable.

The committee comprises members from DPP, Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC).

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NBM plc injects K150 million into MUBAS Endowment Fund

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-National Bank of Malawi (NBM plc) has committed MK150 million to the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) Endowment Fund through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at addressing financial challenges faced by needy students.

The Endowment Fund, launched last year, was designed as a sustainable mechanism to support scholarships, research, and innovation for financially challenged students at the institution.

Speaking during the official MoU signing ceremony on Friday, NBM plc Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Harold Jiya, underscored the Bank’s commitment to advancing education as a driver of national development.

“This fund is meant to support student scholarships, research, needy students, and innovation at the university. As NBM plc, we felt it worthwhile to support this initiative, considering the crucial role academic institutions play in the development of the country,” said Jiya.

He added that the MoU outlines governance and transparency measures to ensure the funds are used effectively.

“We have put in place clear guidelines on how the money will be managed to guarantee accountability and sustainability. This framework will also help attract additional investments to support needy students,” he said.

MUBAS Vice Chancellor, Nancy Chitera, applauded NBM plc for the support, describing it as a significant milestone in addressing student welfare. She revealed that nearly half of the institution’s students face financial difficulties.

“We are very excited about this donation as it reassures us that the Bank believes in us. It gives us confidence that we are heading in the right direction.

“With over 10,000 students, half of whom are needy, we believe this Endowment Fund will provide long-term solutions to some of the challenges our students face,” said Chitera.

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Taylor Swift Fans Think ‘Fate of Ophelia’ Is About Failed Joe Alwyn Romance

Think Joe Alwyn was in the clear? Think again … Taylor Swift just dropped a Shakespearean shade-bomb at the “Hamlet” star on “The Life of a Showgirl,” and Swifties are screaming — it’s totally about him! On “The Fate of Ophelia,” Taylor flips…

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Who Failed Selection on Season 4 of ‘Special Forces’?

Reality TV stars join Fox’s Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test to see what they can achieve when pushed to their physical and emotional limits — but not everyone is able to last until the very end.

The hit series, which premiered in 2023, puts contestants through harsh, military-style training based on actual special forces selection processes. They face intense physical and mental challenges designed to push every boundary.

Season 1 featured Danny Amendola, Mel B., Hannah Brown, Tyler Florence, Kate Gosselin, Dwight Howard, Montell Jordan, Gus Kenworthy and Nastia Liukin enduring grueling challenges. Carli Lloyd, Beverley Mitchell, Kenya Moore, Mike Piazza, Dr. Drew Pinsky, Anthony Scaramucci and Jamie Lynn Spears made up the rest of the recruits.

During the sophomore season, JoJo Siwa, Tom Sandoval, Brian Austin Green, Tyler Cameron, Dez Bryant, Jack Osbourne, Kelly Rizzo and Robert Horry signed up for the challenge alongside Savannah Chrisley, Blac Chyna, Erin Jackson, Nick Viall, Tara Reid, Bode Miller and Billy Billingham.

Meet ‘Special Forces’ Season 4 Cast: Kody Brown, Teresa Giudice and More

Season 3 challenged Stephen Baldwin, Nathan Adrian, Brody Jenner, Carey Hart, Christy Carlson Romano, Kyla Pratt, Denise Richards, Cam Newton, Ali Manno, Trista Sutter, Marion Jones, Kayla Nicole, Alana Blanchard, Landon Donovan, Golden Tate and Jordyn Wieber.

For the fourth round, Fox brought in Teresa Giudice, Gia Giudice, Jussie Smollett, Kody Brown, Brittany Cartwright, Eric Decker, Jessie James Decker, Johnny Manziel, Chanel Iman, Nick Young, Ravi Patel, Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia, Andrew East, Shawn Johnson East, Randall Cobb, Mark Estes, Eva Marcille and Christie Pearce.

The season 4 premiere on September 25 got off to a rough start when Brittany left after only half a day.

“I wanted to do Special Forces selection because I have been through so much this year, I finally found the strength to leave a very toxic relationship,” she shared on screen about her split from Jax Taylor. “I had my ex writing me being like, ‘You’re not gonna make it far,’ right before I even came here so people like that I want to prove wrong.”

Brittany exclusively told Us Weekly that she felt “empowered” trying the Special Forces course.

“I’m in a much better place now,” she added “It was a terrifying, crazy experience being on Special Forces, but I’m in such a better place than I have been in a long time.”

Keep scrolling to see the order in which each season 4 contestant was eliminated — and check back weekly as new episodes of Special Forces air on Fox Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET.

Brittany Cartwright

Special Forces Cast Reveal the 1st Thing They Did When They Got Home
Brittany Cartwright PETE DADDS / FOX

Out: Hours Into Day 1
After joining Special Forces in season 4, The Valley star made it through a challenge where she had to jump out of a helicopter and then run heavy supplies back and forth. She tapped out after her team lost and were forced to run back to base.

Eva Marcille

Special Forces Cast Reveal the 1st Thing They Did When They Got Home
Eva Marcille PETE DADDS / FOX

Out: Day 2

Eva was dismissed after having a health scare following a challenge that had the recruits underwater for extended periods of time. After struggling in the aftermath, DS told Eva she wouldn’t continue.

Teresa Giudice

Meet Special Forces Season 4 Cast Kody Brown Teresa Giudice Jessie James Decker and More Teresa Giudice
Pete Dadds/FOX

Out: Day 2

Teresa chose to self eliminate after refusing to watch her daughter get into a physical altercation for a boxing ring inspired challenge.

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Kabambe shifts UTM’s gaze toward 2030 Elections

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-UTM President Dr. Dalitso Kabambe has declared that his party’s strategic focus is now firmly set on the 2030 general elections.

Speaking to local media this afternoon, Dr. Kabambe acknowledged the outcome of the 2025 polls, which were won by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), and said UTM will regroup to prepare for the future.

“We are just done with the 2025 elections in which the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) triumphed,” he stated.

Dr. Kabambe explained that UTM will return to the drawing board, assessing both the strengths and weaknesses of its campaign.

“We will go back to the drawing board to see what we did well and areas of improvement,” he added.

He further emphasized that the party intends to begin long-term planning, with an eye on organizational readiness and effective execution.

“We will start planning and execute our plans ahead of elections in 2030,” Kabambe said.

The UTM leader made these remarks at the Khulubvi Arts and Cultural Festival in Nsanje, where his presence also highlighted the party’s interest in strengthening its cultural and grassroots appeal.

Political analysts say Kabambe’s statement marks a pragmatic acknowledgment of reality. Having failed to capture the presidency in 2025, UTM now has five years to either consolidate its structures or seek fresh alliances that might amplify its influence in the next round.

The question of alliances looms large for UTM. Going solo in 2030 would test the party’s independent strength, but it risks repeating past struggles where limited regional support constrained its national appeal.

Conversely, forming alliances could provide broader reach and voter confidence, but it might dilute UTM’s identity, particularly if the coalition partners overshadow Kabambe’s leadership.

The precedent of the Tonse Alliance in 2020 provides critical lessons. That coalition, spearheaded by Lazarus Chakwera and Saulos Chilima, succeeded precisely because it merged complementary strengths and presented a unified front against the then-incumbent Peter Mutharika.

However, the post-victory challenges of the Tonse Alliance—marked by internal rivalries, competing ambitions, and disillusionment among supporters—also serve as a cautionary tale. Kabambe must weigh the benefits of alliance-building against the dangers of fragmented governance that often follows.

When mapping potential partners for 2030, the Democratic Progressive Party stands out first. Partnering with the DPP would give UTM immediate access to a well-established base in the Southern Region and the party’s strong rural machinery. Yet, with the DPP currently enjoying a resurgence after its 2025 victory, Kabambe risks being reduced to a secondary figure unless UTM brings decisive votes to the table.

Second, the Malawi Congress Party remains an option. An alliance with MCP could give UTM traction in the Central Region, but this path is complicated by history. UTM’s role as a junior partner in the Tonse Alliance left many of its supporters disillusioned. To partner again with MCP, Kabambe would need stronger guarantees of shared power and a clear strategy to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. The bigger question would be whether UTM voters would forgive such a reunion.

Third, Kabambe could look beyond the traditional heavyweights and align with new or emerging movements. This would allow UTM to play a leading role in shaping a fresh coalition brand, unburdened by past baggage. The risk, however, is that such movements often lack resources, structures, and staying power, making them unpredictable allies in a high-stakes election.

Fourth, there remains the option of going solo. If UTM chooses to run independently, it could use the coming years to strengthen grassroots structures and position itself as a credible alternative to both MCP and DPP. This would help preserve UTM’s identity, but it comes with the danger of electoral isolation in a political environment that has historically favored alliances.

And finally, Kabambe must confront the broader truth of Malawi’s political terrain: the hard math of elections rarely rewards isolation. The precedent of the Tonse Alliance showed both the power and the pitfalls of coalition-building. For Kabambe, the challenge is to craft a partnership where UTM is not simply a junior partner but a decisive force.

Looking ahead, UTM’s future seems far more likely to be shaped by alliances than by a solo run. Kabambe’s boldest path to the presidency may well lie in building a coalition that preserves his party’s identity while leveraging the broader electoral appeal of strategic partners. If he can strike that balance, 2030 could mark not just UTM’s comeback, but Kabambe’s breakthrough.

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King Mswati III, Hichilema, other SADC leaders to grace Mutharika’s inauguration

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi is gearing up to witness the inauguration of its 7th President, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, as four regional leaders have confirmed their attendance at the ceremony.

The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 4th, 2025, at the Kamuzu Stadium.

The presidents of Zambia, Mozambique and Eswatini will be in attendance to congratulate President-elect Mutharika and Vice President-elect Dr. Jane Ansah. The visiting leaders include:

  • President of Zambia: Hakainde Hichilema
  • President of Mozambique: Daniel Chapo
  • King of Eswatini: King Mswati III

In their press releases, the leaders expressed their solidarity with the people of Malawi and congratulated the president-elect and vice president-elect on their victory.

The government, through the Ministry of Information and Digitalization, and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) have confirmed that all arrangements are in place for the swearing-in ceremony.

Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, a renowned lawyer and politician, is set to take office for a five-year term.

Given the dignitaries attending, security and other logistical arrangements are expected to be tight around Kamuzu Stadium on the day of the ceremony.

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