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​In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing the education of visually impaired secondary school students, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the US-based Our Aim Foundation, is set to provide prescription eyeglasses to approximately 5,000 students across Malawi.

Deputy Minister of Health, Halima Daud, announced that the project, dubbed the "Eyewear Project," will supply eyeglasses worth MK1.7 billion annually. Already, 200 pairs of glasses and a screening kit have been distributed as part of the pilot phase.

Speaking on Thursday during the official opening of the MK700 million Nafuse Health Center in Mchinji, Minister Daud emphasized the government's commitment to improving healthcare services for vulnerable populations. "This initiative marks a significant step toward addressing the educational challenges faced by students with visual impairments," she said.

The newly opened Nafuse Health Center, also supported by Our Aim Foundation, will cater to the healthcare needs of over 35,000 people from more than 90 villages under Senior Chief Mkanda. The center will offer essential services such as maternity care, emergency care, and radiography, significantly enhancing healthcare access in the region.

This joint effort between the Ministry of Health and Our Aim Foundation reflects a broader commitment to addressing the healthcare and educational needs of underserved communities in Malawi.

​As the nation steadily approaches next year’s general elections, a wave of ‘convention frenzy’ has swept across all major political parties, each hastily announcing dates for their conventions in a bid to ready themselves for the upcoming contest. 

Leading the charge was the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), which has already set the pace with a stellar performance. So far, the Mother Party has not only met expectations but has truly nailed it, showcasing its readiness and resolve.

The MCP has once again demonstrated its unparalleled organizational prowess with the recent elective conference held from August 8th to 10th—a milestone event hailed as one of the most successful in Malawi’s multiparty political history. 

With over 1,400 delegates from every corner of the country converging at the Bingu International Conference Centre in Lilongwe, the event was a logistical feat of remarkable efficiency. But more than that, it was a resounding affirmation of the MCP's enduring commitment to democracy, unity, and progress.

Throughout the conference, delegates passionately cast their votes, bringing forth a new National Executive team tasked with carrying forward the aspirations of the people. The energy and determination in the room were palpable, reflecting the profound hope placed in the new leadership.

In a rare and commendable display of leadership, President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera remained with the delegates throughout the night, personally witnessing every moment of the voting process.

While others succumbed to fatigue, the MCP President stayed alert and engaged—an unprecedented act in the annals of Malawi's political history. The triumph of this national convention is a clear indicator that the MCP is more prepared than ever to continue steering Malawi’s future. 

The MCP’s organization, capacity, and resolve have been laid bare for all to see, affirming its readiness to lead Malawi into the next chapter. Now, more than ever, Malawians must recognize the importance of continuity and not gamble with the nation's progress.

However, this success also comes with a stern reminder, which is that those elected to leadership positions must not become complacent. 

The MCP belongs to the people at the grassroots level—they are the true custodians of the party. They demand and deserve nothing less than unwavering dedication and performance from their leaders. Failure to deliver on this mandate will see them voted out next time.

CONVENTION USHERS IN NEW, YOUTHFUL LEADERS

One of the major highlights of the recently held MCP convention was the election of new and youthful individuals into top leadership positions. This was indicative of a broader trend within political parties worldwide, where younger members are increasingly taking on leadership roles.

The newly elected officials, including the Secretary General, or CEO of the party, Richard Chimwendo Banda, are expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that resonate with younger voters, who are becoming an increasingly important demographic in Malawi.

MEMORIES OF KAMUZU AND 'NEW BLOOD'

In 1997, shortly before his death, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda delivered a significant speech at the MCP national convention at Natural Resources in Lilongwe regarding the future leadership of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP). The speech was pivotal as it marked a transition point for the party and reflected Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda’s views on the necessity for new leadership to guide Malawi into a new era.

Dr. Banda emphasized the need for “new blood” within the MCP to rejuvenate its leadership and adapt to changing political dynamics. The late Ngwazi recognized that younger leaders could bring fresh ideas and perspectives necessary for revitalizing the party and addressing contemporary issues facing Malawi. 

The recently held MCP national convention just kept alive the dream of Father and Founder of the Malawi Nation by electing the likes of Chimwendo Banda, Catherine Gotani Hara, Jessie Kabwira, among others, into top executive positions.

CONGRATULATIONS PRESIDENT CHAKWERA, SG CHIMWENDO BANDA, AND ALL NEC OFFICIALS FOR THE DESERVED VICTORY!

The author is writing in his personal capacity