Zachimalawi

Sunday, November 4, 2012

African Union Commission Ready to Send African Election Observer Mission to Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso and Ghana

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission has, on the 1st of November 2012, approved the deployment of the African Union Election Observers Mission (AUEOM) to observe elections taking place in Sierra Leone, on 17 November 2012; Burkina Faso, on 2 December 2012 and Ghana, on 7 December 2012. The Commission, through its Democracy and Electoral Assistance Unit of the Department of Political Affairs, has concluded plans as mandated by the Commission for the deployment of the AU-EOM to the afore-mentioned countries as follows: Sierra Leone: 11th November – 24th November 2012 Burkina Faso: 24th November – 7th December Ghana: 30th November – 12th December The AU-EOM draws its mandate from various African Union instruments and most importantly the: - AU Guidelines on African Union Election Observation and Monitoring Missions, 2002 - The OUA/AU Declaration on Principles Governing Democratic Elections in Africa, 2002 - African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, 1981 and - African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG), 2007 The AU-EOM mission to the various countries comprises selected and fully trained observers from the African Union Observers database including, former Heads of States, Ambassadors, members of election management bodies and other selected and trained observers from civil society organisations in Africa. The composition of each mission draws from the different region of Africa and comprises forty (40) observers to each of the respective countries. The mission will remain in constant interaction with the Commission and present a final report on the elections to the Chairperson. For more information please contact: Guy Cyrille TAPOKO Democracy and Electoral Assistance Unit Department of Political Affairs African Union Commission Tel: +251 11 552 6373 Ext. 2618, Direct line:+251 11 518 2618 Email: TAPOKOG@africa-union.org

AFRICAN UNION COMMISSION SAYS ESTABLISHMENT OF PEACE AND SECURITY MUST GO HAND IN HAND WITH DEVELOPMENT

African Union, Addis Ababa - 2 November 2012 - A meeting between Commission Chairperson, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma and the African Union Partners Group (AUPG) today Friday 2 November 2012, in the AU headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, heard that although peace and security activities currently loom largest among the activities of the AU Commission (AUC), they have to go hand in hand with efforts at development. “In the long term, to guarantee stability, we have to have development”, said the AU Chairperson. She warned that, without development, even stable countries can become unstable as citizens become restless. Peace and security, health, education, youth development, women’s empowerment, trade, infrastructural development, institutional capacity building and communication were outlined as some of the priority areas of the African Union Commission, as it seeks to drive the African integration and development process, as defined by the African Union. Health and education were highlighted as “foundations of development”. Associated to that, in the Commission’s view, is the empowerment of women, with the Chairperson stressing the negative effects of the very high maternal mortality in Africa. In this regard, “Survival of the mother is important not just for her own sake, but also for her family, especially young children whose future would be compromised without a mother”, said the Chairperson. But the AUC Chairperson envisages women’s development going further than just survival - to their active and equal participation in all sectors of the economy as well as their fair representation in decision making positions. In terms of trade, the Commission is promoting intra African trade. Currently, intra African trade constitutes only 10% of the continent’s trade, with more focus being given to trade with countries on other continents. However, many obstacles to trade need to be removed before meaningful intra African trade can take place. Such obstacles include inadequate infrastructure, exporting raw materials with little or no value addition, lack of diversity in products and regulations that impede trade. With a view to the rapid industrialization of Africa, the Commission views adoption of science as a priority. In this respect, the Pan African University with its 5 campuses, each concentrating on a specific scientific pursuit, is expected to move the continent forward, by giving the requisite knowledge and skills to African people. Dr Dlamini Zuma’s address to the partners emphasized, as well, the importance of building the capacity of the AUC so that it will be better able to deliver on its commitments. The AUC Chairperson strongly accentuated the need for Africa to communicate more effectively to citizens and outsiders about her developments and progress. It is only through communication, the Chairperson said, that citizens will understand the work of the AU and therefore give it their full support. However, she noted the inadequate budgets allocated to communication and urged more funding for communication activities. Speaking about the input of the partners to the budget of the AU programmes, Dr. Dlamini Zuma expressed her appreciation for the support rendered to the organization ever since it was the Organisation of African Unity. She also underscored that the Commission would like to see Africa make a more significant contribution to the African Union’s budget, in spite of its limited resources. According to the Co-Chairperson of the African Union Partners Group, the groups aims to facilitate dialogue between partners and the African Union, to realize fruitful cooperation, and to promote dialogue and communication. WZM/HMC

Thursday, November 1, 2012

AFRICA MUST DELIVER AS ONE TO EMPOWER YOUTH FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT - Dr. NKOSAZANA C. DLAMINI ZUMA

NOVEMBER 1ST, 2012 AFRICAN YOUTH DAY THEME: " AFRICA MUST DELIVER AS ONE TO EMPOWER YOUTH FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT," STATEMENT BY H.E Dr. NKOSAZANA C. DLAMINI ZUMA CHAIPERSON OF THE AFRICAN UNION COMMISSION Today, 1st November 2012, we are celebrating the 7th African Youth Day, since the adoption of the Decision by the AU Heads of State in Banjul in 2006. The theme for this year is; “Africa Must Deliver as ONE to Empower African Youth For Sustainable Development." This theme has been chosen to encourage youth to be involved in the decision-making processes at national, regional and continental levels for their own development, as well as the achievement of Africa’s agenda for sustainable development. It is also dedicated to highlight the current progress and efforts made to ensure that Africa can speak with one voice on issues of youth development. It is worth noting that major decisions that have a bearing on Youth Development were recently made by the Assembly of African Heads of State and Government. These include: the operationalization of African Union Youth Volunteers Corps (AU-YVC) and its scaling up; the establishment of the Pan African University (PAU) the promotion of youth employment within the reduction by 2% of the youth unemployment rate the revitalization of the Pan African Youth Union (PYU) Other major achievements include the following; The acceleration of the Decade Plan of Action on Youth development with the involvement of the Regional Economic Communities and he visible role of the Member States, The quick entry into force of the African Youth Charter and other relevant instruments on the Continent A Rio+20 Conference Development Conference that assisted in positioning the Commission as the framework in consolidating the world-level interactions on-behalf of African Youth around the Green Economy negotiations with a Youth perspective on the common African Union Position. Many more actions following the memorable July 2011 Summit on accelerating youth empowerment for sustainable development in Africa in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The African Union believes young people should be an integral part of social and economic development. Today, Africa is the youngest continent in the world and is projected to begin experiencing a demographic window for the next decades should we make the right investments in our youth. This population dynamic must appear as the strength for the continent that must work as a collective to deliver on youth development and empowerment. To deliver as one on youth development and empowerment, Member States, that yet need to do so, must expedite their efforts to sign, ratify, domesticate and implement the African Youth Charter and national youth development plans must be aligned with the youth decade (DPoA) together with ensuring data and information on young people is available to inform sustainable actions and progress reports. The commission commits to continue providing the requisite technical assistance to this end to member states and the concerned stakeholders. The African Union Commission wishes to associate itself to the celebration of the African Youth Day 2012 to congratulate the African youth for their respective efforts in the capacity building process, and to all its partners and stakeholders working closely with us to build robust institutions to empower our greatest resources that are the youth, I express my deep gratitude. Finally, on the auspice of the celebration of the African Youth Day 2012, I call upon all stakeholders including Member States, the Pan-African Youth Union, Regional Economic Communities, Private Sector, NGO's, UN agencies, bilateral and multi-lateral and development partners to synergize efforts in delivering as ONE on Youth development and empowerment in Africa. The African Union Commission commits itself to work together with its key partners to deliver as ONE on Youth development and empowerment and ensure that Africa's young people are playing their role in the decision-making process by working side by side with their leaders in the Member States, the Regional Economic Communities and at continental level. Long live Africa! God bless the African youth!

“Culture, an undeniable growth pole”

Kinshasa, 31 October 2012 – The Experts’ Session of the fourth African Union Conference of Ministers of Culture (CMAC4) ended today 31 October 2012 in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with concrete recommendations to promote culture in Africa for economic and social development. The status of ratification of the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance featured prominently among the agenda of the Experts. To date only three of the 54 Member States of the AU have ratified this instrument, namely Congo, Mali, Nigeria and Senegal. At the end of a lengthy discussion on the strategy for the promotion of, and advocacy for, the ratification of the Charter, the Experts agreed to maintain the original requirement, namely that to become effective the Charter must be ratified by two-thirds of the total membership of the African Union. Normally, fifteen ratifications are required for an AU legal instrument to be applicable to all Member States. As part of the campaign for the ratification and implementation of the Charter, participants proposed that this item should be included in the agenda of the 20th Assembly of the Union so as to secure a firm commitment from the Heads of State and Government for its effective implementation. The celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Organisation of the African Unity (OAU)/African Union (AU) in 2013 also featured prominently in the deliberations of the Experts’ Meeting. In his advocacy for the success of this jubilee, Dr Olawale Maiyegun, Director of AU Department of Social Affairs, recalled that this Anniversary is a unique opportunity to “take stock of our vision of Pan-africanism and the future of Culture in Africa”. He called on the Representatives of the AU Member States to enrich the program of the festivities throughout the year, adding “let’s ensure that the year 2013 is also the year of African Culture”. Concerned by the destruction of historical sites in Northern Mali, the Experts launched an appeal for the preservation of African Cultural Goods, especially during periods of crisis. In the Kinshasa Declaration prepared for the attention of the Ministers of Culture, the Experts expressed deep concern about “the serious violations of human rights and the senseless and unacceptable destruction of world heritage sites perpetrated in the northern part of Mali notably in Timbuktu by armed groups”. The Kinshasa Declaration and the Recommendations of the Experts will be tabled before the Ministers of CAMC4 for adoption. Cȏte d’Ivoire offered to host CAMC5 in 2014. The Ministerial Session of CAMC4 will be held from 1-2 November 2012. During these two days, Kinshasa will be the Capital of African Culture. Contact:

African Union Commission Chairperson calls for enhanced efforts to fight hunger and malnutrition

Addis Ababa 31 October 2012 - African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson, H.E Dr. Nkhosazana Dlamini-Zuma has called for enhanced efforts in Africa to fight hunger and malnutrition. Dr. Dlamini-Zuma, represented by AUC Deputy Chairperson, H.E Erastus Mwencha, said the realisation that Africa was unlikely to meet the first of the Millennium Development Goals (to halve hunger and poverty) by 2015, was alarming. Dr. Dlamini-Zuma was speaking during the 3rd commemoration of the Africa Day for Food and Nutrition Security, attended by high-level leaders from global, regional and national agriculture associations, African and other governments, civil society and farmers’ organizations, the private sector, scientific and research institutions, farmer organizations and development partners. “This should be a crude awakening to all policy makers and implementers,’’ she said. Food and Nutrition Security underlie all our developmental efforts in Africa. It defines the depth and breadth of our strategies as continental organisations, as regional bodies, as countries and as civil society. It determines the seriousness of any government and system of governance. It simply draws the line between responsible and irresponsible leadership. It is a challenge we have to face head on.” Dr. Dlamini-Zuma however noted that under the guidance of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Programme (CAADP), some Member States had started to score marked progress in terms of economic development indicators due to investment in and resourcing of the broader agricultural sector. Officially opening the commemoration ceremony, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture, Hon. Mitiku Kassa said, agriculture should play a greater role in improving food nutrition and security by promoting the growing of nutritious crops and food. “Now is the time to look for solutions that will not only make agriculture profitable but also for the maximum benefit of human beings. Let us concentrate our energies to reduce and eradicate hunger and malnutrition,” he said. H.E Mrs. Tumusiime Rhoda Peace, AUC’s Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture said that the main expected outcome of the event was to get political commitment and adoption of food and nutrition security priorities based on continent, regional and national frameworks. NEPAD Agency CEO, Dr. Ibrahim Assane Mayaki said, “We all appreciate that nutrition remains a key that unlocks the door for achieving and optimizing human potential, and national economic development.’’ Meanwhile, in a live address beamed to the audience, David Nabarro, Coordinator of UNHTFL on Global Food Crisis highlighted the importance of Agriculture in Food and Nutrition Security and creating stability in the continent. “There is a clear need to expand agriculture to involve smallholders in the food system and create earning opportunities particularly within Sub-Saharan Africa. Within this region, 330 million young people will enter the job market over the next 15 years. 200 million will live in rural areas; they will depend on Agriculture for their employment” he said. He however commended the progress of CAADP implementation in Africa and the efforts of governments to further its agenda. The objectives of the commemoration include the creation of a platform in which food and nutrition security stakeholders discuss solutions and make recommendations on Food and Nutrition Security issues in Africa. The commemoration also aims to strengthen momentum towards achieving the MDGs, and what could follow the MDGs after 2015. This year’s event is commemorated under the theme “Ensuring access to safe and nutritious foods.” With the current statistics showing that 216 million Africans are chronically malnourished (30% of population); 5 million die of hunger annually; 126 million children are underweight and that about 50% children are stunted – more needs to be done and platforms such as the Africa Day for Food and Nutrition Security provide an opportunity to come up with solutions.

AFRICA MUST DELIVER AS ONE TO EMPOWER YOUTH FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT- H.E Dr. NKOSAZANA C. DLAMINI ZUMA

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Zachimalawi Cannot Be Intimidated

Just a reminder to those who think they are so powerful and can intimidate Zachimalawi. Zachimalawi, for your own information, cannot be intimidated. Yes, if you have ever received tax-payers' money as your package, that is a fact, and Zachimalawi- as a taxpayer- will write anything to that effect if the issue is of public interest. Now, if you thought you can force Zachimalawi to delete posts (as some people have been trying to do), that ain't gonna happen. Zachimalawi is also tough. Oh, yes! Now, talk to me again!

Saturday, October 27, 2012

Substandard drugs: lives not in danger

The Pharmacy, Medicines and Poisons Board (PMPB) has said chances of patients taking Aspirin and Ringers Lactate drugs that have been recalled due to defects are low due to stringent measures taken by legal drug handlers before subscribing them to clients. Aspirin is a tablet drug while Lingers Lactate is a solution administered intravenously. PMPB Acting Registrar, Wilford Mathiya, told Zachimalawi on Friday that the extent of the risk posed by the recalled drugs was minimal. “The advantage is that, before drugs are administered, health professionals check them thoroughly. Perhaps the tricky part could be with the solution but, again, health professionals check for clarity of the solution by asking the question: Is this solution clear against sunshine? Does it have particles, which may be an indication that something is wrong?” Mathiya said. Mathiya indicated that the affected medicines are Aspirin tablets manufactured by Pharmanova Limited, with an expiry date of July 2014, while Lingers Lactate, manufactured by Nirma Limited, has December 2013 as the expiry date. Some of the tablets were found at Lightcane Pharmaceuticals in Blantyre while some of the Ringers Lactate drugs were found at Chiradzulu District Health Office. However, the Acting Registrar said the board is not sure whether the recalled drugs are counterfeits or drugs duly manufactured by registered dealers. “We will learn whether the drugs are genuine or counterfeit. As of now, we are still looking for information from the companies because it’s them, and not us, who handle the recall process. We are only a regulator, and do not bear the costs of the drugs’ recall process. “But it is clear that the drugs did not meet specifications. When the Aspirin bottles were opened, they produced a bad spell while the Ringers Lactate developed mould. We need to find out why the drugs are faring poorly: Is it because of poor storage conditions? Is it because of a manufacturing fault? It may be possible that storage, and not the manufacturer, may be the problem,” Mathiya said. Mathiya expressed concern that chances of the sub-standard drug being used could be perpetuated by illegal drug handlers who ply their trade on the black market. He said, while PMPB tries to arrest the situation by seizing medicines, the efforts were being hampered by low penalties. “The Act we use, the Pharmacy, Medicines and Poisons Act Number 15 of 1988, is outdated and very lenient on penalties. So, when we take people caught with illegal medicines, what happens is that magistrates sometimes marry several Acts. But, sometimes, offenders are fined K50,000,” Mathiya said. Mathiya said, while efforts were made to amend the statutes and the proposed amendments are currently in the hands of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, there is need to review the amendments again since it has taken a long time. PMPB carries out quarterly (post-marketing) inspections and general inspections.

UNDP signs $5.4Million financing agreements with Norway and Ireland to supportDemocracy Consolidation Projects and Human Rights

Lilongwe, October 26, 2012- The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Governments of Norway and Ireland have signed a $5.4 Million Financing Agreements to democracy consolidation projects and human rights in Malawi for the next four years. UNDP Administrator Helen Clark witnessed the signing ceremony while on a three day visit to the southern African country. Earlier in the day Helen Clark visited the Democracy Consolidation Projects in Malomo community in the Nitchisi district of Malawi. Testimonials from local beneficiaries of the project described how life had improved for victims of domestic violence, corruption and people who are livening with HIV/AIDS. “We are very delighted to see that we are supporting human rights in Malawi.This morning, we had a chance to hear from communities how they have been empowered and when you hear members of communities articulating how they have been empowered, it’s very inspiring indeed. We would like to sincerely thank Norway and Ireland for supporting these programmes on human rights and democracy consolidation”Ms Clark said at the signing ceremony in the Capital Hotel in Lilongwe. One of the women who had been living in abusive marriage described how going through the training offered by the project helped her improve her family’s life. Now, she said, after she had undergone the training and realized her rights, she is now able to reason with her husband on various issues including limiting the size of the family and sharing the proceeds from their produce. The Government of Norway, a long standing partner of UNDP and the Government of Malawi, has committed 20 million Norwegian Krona (approx. USD 3.5 million) for the Democracy Consolidation Project which is implemented by the Office of the President and Cabinet through 16 civil society organizations, synods and faith based organizations in 19 districts. The Norwegian Ambassador to Malawi AsbjørnEidhammer said that UNDP has a special role to play in Malawi. “The Programs UNDP have chosen are inline with Norway’s “ he added In addition to the Democracy Consolidation project, the Government of Norway extended its support to the Human Rights promotion and protection project in Malawi by contributing 9.7 million Norwegian Krona (approx. USD 1.69 million) to UNDP implemented by the Malawi Human Rights Commission in coordination with the Ministry of Justice and the Office of the Ombudsman in cooperation with human rights and civil society organizations. The Government of Ireland committed EUR 200,000 to the Democracy Consolidation project initially for one year and announced a multi-year agreement from 2013 onwards. The total estimated project fund is USD 20 million, out of whichUSD 13 million is expected to be mobilized. The fund is managed by UNDP Malawi. Both projects are responding to a number of challenges that Malawi is facing both with human rights promotion and protection and democracy consolidation. They are to address key challenges affecting the country, e.g. need for accelerating poverty reduction at community level, prevention of gender based violence and promotion of women’s status and rights, deepening and consolidating a culture to respect human rights in all sectors of the community, and developing institutional capacities of state institutions mandated to promote and protect human rights. The Democracy Consolidation Project has been very instrumental in empowering people to promote, protect and defend human rights in Malawi. The project has improved the efficiency of civil society, catalyzed the promotion of good governance, and ensured realization of human rights at community level. Through the project, communities have been transformed from being reactive to being proactive in dealing with their daily life challenges. The Human Rights support project facilitates the design of an architecture that enhances coordination amongst human rights actors such as the Malawi Human Rights Commission and Office of the Ombudsman, and equip them with appropriate skills as well as collaborative planning and actions, so that they are capable of undertaking state party reporting and advocacy for the implementation of the UPR recommendations. The project has been designed also to enhance working relationships and interfaces between constitutional bodies and civil society organizations on human rights. An integral crosscutting aspect of the project is the promotion of gender equality and the rights of the vulnerable and marginalized groups such as women, children and persons with disabilities. Helen Clark commended the Government of Her Excellency Mrs. Joyce Banda for taking bold steps to deepen democracy by repealing the injunctions Bill and Section 46 of the Penal Code, which had restrained freedom of speech. Norwegian Ambassador to Malawi, His Excellency Asbjørn Eidhammer, the Irish Ambassador, Her Excellency Mrs. Liz O’Higgins, signed on behalf of their governments while UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Richard Dictus signed on behalf of UNDP. Deputy Chief Secretary, Ms. Hawa Ndilowe, the Chairperson of the of the Human Rights Commission, Mrs. Sophie Kalinde and the Director of Debt and Aid in the Ministry of Finance Mr. Peter Simbani were among some of the high level dignitaries that attended the signing ceremony. Both the Norwegian and Irish Ambassador expressed satisfaction with the democracy consolidation and human rights projects and pledges their continued support to the country. On her Part, Ms Ndilowe said: “I want to re-affirm government’s commitment towards good governance and human rights and that the quality of life of Malawians improves. I also want to thank Norway and Ireland for the wonderful support towards governance projects,”

Friday, October 26, 2012

UNDP Administrator Ms. Helen Clark visits Malawi

Lilongwe 24 October 2012- Helen Clark, the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has arrived in Malawi for a four-day visit. The objective of her visit is to engage senior government officials in high level policy discussions on key development issues in the country. Ms. Clark, who is the highest ranking female official in the UN system and former Prime Minister of New Zealand, will meet Her Excellency Mrs. Joyce Banda, President of the Republic of Malawi, Rt. Honourable Khumbo Kachali, Vice President and Minister of Health, cabinet ministers, Development Partners, the parliamentary women caucus and Civil Society Organization representatives. She will visit UNDP-supported projects to appreciate how UNDP interventions are helping to empower Malawians. The Administrator will also visit Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe to observe the work of UN Volunteer doctors in providing essential health services to the people of Malawi. Ms. Clark will be a guest of honour during the UN Day celebrations which will take place at Ufulu Gardens in Lilongwe on Thursday 25th October 2012. The Administrator was received at Kamuzu International Airport by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Honourable Ephraim Mganda Chiume, UNDP Resident Representative and UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Richard Dictus, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative (Programme), Ms. Naomi Kitahara and Deputy Resident Representative (Operations) Mr. Thierry Randrianarijaona. Accompanying Ms. Clark are Ms. Sharon Kinsley, Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Boaz Paldi, UNDP Head of Audio Visual and Mr. Georges van Monfort, from the UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa (RBA). Helen Clark became the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme in April 2009, and is the first woman to lead the organisation. She is also the chair of the United Nations Development Group, a committee consisting of the heads of all UN funds, programmes and departments working on development issues.

The counterattack: Children fight bullets with balls

There were times- sometimes frequent and, sometimes, far between- when, as happens to people stolen in energy-supping activities, the kids paused on the dusty sports grounds to draw breath and regroup. The children, gathered in their droves at Makata Primary School ground in Blantyre, are so sure that the impact of their seemingly little, local deed will be global in nature, and are here to commemorate the ‘Global Peace Games for Children and Youth 2012’. This is part of the global community’s efforts to destroy the seeds of war before they germinate into full-blown chaos. In Malawi, activities marking ‘Global Peace Games for Children and Youth 2012’ are being spearheaded by Play Soccer Malawi, a grassroots’ educational programme that united children, youths and communities by promoting health, physical and social development through recreational sport. The organization is commemorating the event from September 21 to November 15. Drawn from Makata, Chitsime, Namwalimwe, Nyambadwe, among other primary schools- each of the children’s teams wears a similar set of uniform to symbolize their unity in purpose. “You see,” says Play Soccer Malawi executive director, Patricio Kulemeka, “children are the best agents of positive change in the world and, through sports, we can join hands with them to promote peace and meet Millennium Development Goals such as Goal 1 (eradicating extreme hunger and poverty) by connecting vulnerable individuals to community services and supports through sport-based outreach programs; Goal 2 (achieving universal primary education, by providing sport-based community education programs that provide alternative education opportunities for children who cannot attend school. “Through sport we can also promote gender equality and women empowerment, reduce child mortality, improve maternal health, combat HIV and Aids, malaria, and non-communicable diseases, ensure environmental sustainability, and facilitate the development of global partnership for development.” Kulemeka banks his optimism on the ‘innocent’ nature of children who, unlike a man who has been dying for many days, and has become numb to the stench of the world, their minds are free from the corruption all-around. On this ground, the kids- aged between five and 15- fought gallantly for a trophy they could not see on Monday, 9 October. Their trophy, peace, is more felt than seen. “It is possible to win peace through sport. Fair play is one of the principles people can adopt to maintain world peace,” Kulemeka says. His line of thinking is shared by the children who are here. For example, 15-year-old Maria Damisoni says she believes that sports’ balls and courtesy are more deadly in effect than military weapons! In her unconventional wisdom, she believes that there are so many ways of countering a war, and that the plan for war is not merely military. “It can be through sports, too,” Damisoni says. No wonder, some of the kids read messages whose gist is that the sacred land of the earth should not be the abode of war-mongers. War, they enthused, is more expensive than peace, and holds a vague terror for all people, the bravest included. “Sport is key to unity. Even United Nations statutes mention sport as one of the most important tools in global development. That is why U-Sport signed an agreement with the African Union to employ sporting activities in the promotion of peace. Then, we also have Fifa Day, Fair Play Day. “While we sometimes fail to come together, we are hoping that our children can learn to reconcile. To this effect, other mother body Play Soccer has for the past 12 years been engaging children, youths, community members to promote peace,” Kulemeka says. That is how the local, Ndirande activities turn global. What’s more? They have the backing of the United Nations system. For instance, Special Adviser to the United Nations Secretary-General on Sport for Development and Peace, Wilfried Lemke, acknowledges sport’s uniting power in this year’s message. “The Global Peace Games for Children and Youth are a special opportunity to …strengthen the circle of friendship and solidarity for the ideals of peace and nonviolence within and among all nations and peoples. “I strongly encourage you to practice the lessons of friendship, respect, and tolerance, which you learn during these Games to help to build peace and unity everywhere and to educate yourselves to learn how to make the world a better and healthier place. Sport can be a powerful vehicle to help teach the lessons and values that are needed. Sport brings you together to have fun, be active--- it helps you learn how to work together, and to grow healthy bodies and minds that can make you strong and educated leaders,” Lemke says. Kulemeka cannot agree less: “For Play Soccer Malawi, this is what we try to achieve. Our programming combines education, sports, culture, citizenship and social inclusion. When we talk about sports, we automatically think of education. Sports and education are intrinsically linked and are of primary importance to the formation of children and youngsters. “And it is precisely this synergy between sports and education that serves as the main foundation for the annual global peace.” Indeed, the local organisation’s programmes show that there is more to sport than balling around as they address an array of issues, including nutrition, introduction to healthy bodies, immunizations, water, caring for the environment, fairness, sportsmanship, dealing with anger and frustration, rules of the game, friendship, teamwork, solidarity, self esteem and positive attitude, honesty, rights and responsibilities, respect and honour differences, basic first aid, respect for rules, leadership, equal opportunities, support for others, common illnesses, substances that affect health, among others. For Fifa president Sepp Blatter, there is no teacher in tolerance than football. “I hope you will continue to use the games as a special opportunity to focus on all that football can teach us- the life skills of winning and losing with grace and dignity, of showing respect for others, practicing fair play, tolerance and understanding, learning team work and how to make your bodies healthy and strong”. Blatter also asks people to “take action to improve health and education”. Blatter, like Kulemeka, hopes that the children’s little deeds at Makata and around other dusty grounds in the world, will serve as a crying voice that, gradually, does not get swallowed up in the distance but acts as a silencer that will cover the violent crack of bayonets. Yes, a vibrant silence made more intense by the universal, peace trill of a millions of world children!

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Dr. Myles Munroe: The Greatest Revolutionary

Let me admit that the first time I heard of the name Dr. Myles Munroe was two months ago.

I heard his name from Calvary Family Church International officials who announced that Dr. Monroe would be in Malawi on October 21, 2012.

And, today, I was privileged to be one of the people who went to welcome him at the Chileka International Airport in Blantyre around 10:00 am this morning.

Dr. Munroe disembarked from his private jet, along with wife Ruth, his daughter, his, son, a niece, and Charlie Masala, among others. After disembarking from the plane, he headed for the V.I.P. lounge, where he shook the hands of each one of us before answering some questions.

But it is not the antics of Chileka Airport I want to talk about. I want to talk about his 'The Kingdom and the Church' sermon at Robin's Park in Blantyre an hour later. You can also call it the Calvary Kingdom Service of Worship. Dr. Munroe is simply a great orator who has changed my life forever today!

The way he talked of dominion, colonialism, governance, and other issues. I am flabbergasted.

I was especially enthralled with his statements that the terms 'holy', 'repent', and other stuff, are not religious. He, then, elaborated his statements with concrete examples.

Surely, as I left Robin's Park one hour ago, I felt the changes in my heart. It is like his spirit was speaking to mine.

This afternoon, he will be speaking to various leaders at Robin's Park. Tomorrow, he goes.

What does time pack all the goodies in briefs?

Eish, before I forget. Munroe's first words upon arrival at Chileka International Airport were: "I am home!"

He was serious. His tone was emotional. Dr. Munroe is home now. He is in Malawi, the Warm Heart of Africa.

Tomorrow he goes.

And, before I forget again, Dr. Munroe said something to the same effect (of being home) at Robin's Park at the onset of his sermon. He said: "It has taken me 259 years to set foot on home soil!"

Yet the Bahamian inspirational speaker was born less than 259 years ago- on April 20, 1954- and is only aged 58. Dr. Munroe was talking of the vices of slavery and its twin brother of colonisation: They made Africans so near (to each other; in spirit), yet so far away (in culture, language, belief system). Oh, the colonisers and slave masters and mistresses killed the mind of the great people of Africa!

WHO IS DR. MYLES MUNROE

He is a gifted motivational speaker, best selling author, senior pastor of the Bahamas Faith Ministry, and founder of the Institute of Third World Leaders Association.

In these roles, he has criss-crossed the earth drilling leaders in education, media, religion, sports, government administration, among others.
Today, speaking to Malawians who couldn't believe what they were hearing, nobody wondered why he is the founder of the Bahamas Faith Ministries International (BFMI) and head of the Myles Munroe International (MMI)- which runs leadership training institutes, a publishing company, a missions' agency, a television network, web communications, radio, and a church community.

Yes, nobody had any lingering doubts why he is the chief executive officer and chairman of the board of the
International Third World Leaders Association and president of the International Leadership Training Institute. Yes, nobody could finally understand why he is the author of 23 books and an inspiring speaker.

But Zachimalawi feels that he is more than that; he is the greatest revolutionary. He sets the mind free.

He let's people think for themselves.

He is a great man.

Through slavery, which grabbed his ancestors from Africa, the motherland, those cruel savages took away our pride, our greatest minds.

Through colonisation, they arrested our free thinking capabilities. They gave us their language, making us believe that theirs was the best language; they imposed their leadership style, sending us heartless governors whose only duty was to live and preach their kingdom's symbols abroad; they, then, killed our minds- through this corrupted education system system that propagates what is in the best interest of the masters.

But Munroe comes in the morning, with the keys of the mind, and liberates us to the times that were- when free thinking was the currency of productive life.

This man. Dr. Myles Munroe!!!

DR. MYLES MUNROE AND HIS BOOKS

God's Big Idea Audio Book
by Dr. Myles Munroe
This audio book is another exciting addition to Dr. Myles Munroe's series on the Kingdom of God. God's Big Idea shows how God wants to make the earth a place of Kingdom harmony and peace - beginning with you!
Published December 1, 2008
God's Big Idea
by Dr. Myles Munroe
GOD HAS A BIG IDEAÉAND IT INCLUDES YOU!

This book is another exciting addition to Dr. Myles Munroe's series on the Kingdom of God. God's Big Idea shows how God wants to make the earth a place of Kingdom harmony and peace-beginning with you!
Published August 1, 2008
Kingdom Principles Hard Cover
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Kingdom Principles helps you learn to think and act like a Kingdom resident and ruler--the person God intended you to be. Knowing these principles will infuse your life with a new sense of excitement and purpose!
Published September 1, 2006
Kingdom Principles Audio Book
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published January 1, 2008
Kingdom Principles 40-Day Devo/Journal (Study Guide)
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published May 1, 2008
Kingdom Parenting
by Dr. Myles Munroe, David Burrows
Parenting-The Last Frontier This book and study guide provides practical principles for you, and your teen, to apply to your lives that will combat the forces aimed at destroying your family.
Published March 1, 2007
Applying the Kingdom Hardcover
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Applying the Kingdom will bring a new sense of belonging to your spiritual, emotional, and physical life-apply the Kingdom principles today!
Published August 1, 2007
Applying the Kingdom 40-Day Devotional Journal
by Dr. Myles Munroe
An Essential Personal Guide!
Throughout this 40-Day Devotional Journal, you are given the keys to living a fulfilled life.
Published June 1, 2008
Rediscovering the Kingdom Audio Book
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom Kit
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published December 1, 2007
Rediscovering the Kingdom DVD #5
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom DVD #4
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom DVD #3
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom DVD #2
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom DVD #1
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom CD Vol 5
by Dr. Myles Munroe
As Dr. Munroe unveils the reality and the power of the Kingdom of God, you will be challenged to the core of your religious soul as you discover realities that few have seen, let alone talked about.
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom CD Vol 4
by Dr. Myles Munroe
As Dr. Munroe unveils the reality and the power of the Kingdom of God, you will be challenged to the core of your religious soul as you discover realities that few have seen, let alone talked about.
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom CD Vol 3
by Dr. Myles Munroe
As Dr. Munroe unveils the reality and the power of the Kingdom of God, you will be challenged to the core of your religious soul as you discover realities that few have seen, let alone talked about.
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom CD Vol 2
by Dr. Myles Munroe
As Dr. Munroe unveils the reality and the power of the Kingdom of God, you will be challenged to the core of your religious soul as you discover realities that few have seen, let alone talked about.
Published September 1, 2006
Rediscovering the Kingdom CD Vol 1
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published September 1, 2006
Waiting and Dating
by Dr. Myles Munroe
There is a much better way!
The principles in this book will guide you through a period that for some is the most confusing time of life.
For anyone looking for that special someone with whom to share life, this book is essential, fun, and full of hope!
Published October 1, 2004
Understanding Your Potential Expanded Ed
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Your world will change and your heart will rejoice with hopeful fulfillment as you read this book and discover the richness of all that is yet within you.
Published January 1, 2006
Understanding Your Potential
by Dr. Myles Munroe
This is a motivating, provocative look at the awesome potential trapped within you, waiting to be realized. This book will cause you to be uncomfortable with your present state of accomplishment and dissatisfied with resting on your past success.
Published May 20, 1992
Single, Married, Separated Study Guide
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Take a 40-Day Personal Journey with Myles Munroe based upon his best-selling book, Single, Married, Separated & Life After Divorce.
Published July 1, 2004

Single, Married, Separated and Life after Divorce
by Dr. Myles Munroe
This best-selling author examines the states of singleness, marriage, separation, and divorce, providing insights to minister to everyone, regardless of their situation.
Published November 1, 2003

Releasing Your Potential Expanded
by Dr. Myles Munroe
This expanded edition of the popular original book gives you the tools to start today to release and fulfill your potential!
Published February 1, 2007

Releasing Your Potential
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Releasing Your Potential is a complete, integrated, principle-centered approach to unleashing the awesome potential trapped within you. With penetrating insights and pointed anecdotes, this book reveals a step-by-step pathway to releasing your potential.
Published July 23, 1992

Rediscovering the Kingdom 40 Day Devotional
by Dr. Myles Munroe
This devotional is the perfect way to fortify the principles of Kingdom living. Published August 1, 2005

In Pursuit of Purpose
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published November 16, 1992

Purpose and Power of Praise Study Guide
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published July 5, 2001

The Purpose and Power of Praise and Worship
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Every manufactured product was made to function within the context of specified guidelines and an ideal environment in order to achieve its maximum performance. The presence of God is the established ideal atmosphere in which mankind was designed to function.
Published July 17, 2000

The Purpose and Power of Love and Marriage
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Dr Myles Munroe provides the answers to questions surrounding the true nature of love as he exposes the false images created in our culture. He illuminates the many facets of love while tackling the tough subjects of separation and divorce.
Published January 1, 2005

Potential For Every Day
by Dr. Myles Munroe
You can become your best!
One step at a time. One moment at a time. One day at a time.

Myles Munroe keeps you focused on releasing your God-given potential. This awesome daily devotional will help keep you on track to becoming all that God has made you to be.
Published June 1, 2008

Myles Munroe 365-Day Devotional & Journal
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published July 1, 2007

Maximizing Your Potential Expanded Edition
by Dr. Myles Munroe
You can make a difference in your world-now!

Learning how to maximize your potential gives you the confidence to release the God-given gifts and talents trapped within you.
Published July 1, 2008

Maximizing Your Potential
by Dr. Myles Munroe
This book will refire your passion for living! Learn to maximize the God-given potential lying dormant inside you through the practical, integrated, and penetrating concepts shared in this book. Go for the max--die empty!
Published June 14, 1996

The Glory of Living
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Are You Ready to Take Your Spiritual Life to the Next Level? Dr. Munroe will lead you from the furnace of life--where glory is refined--to the mountain of His presence--where glory is revealed.
Published September 1, 2005

by Dr. Myles Munroe
God wants to make the earth a Kingdom of harmony and peace--beginning with you! You can be directly involved by helping plant and multiply His garden communities where all God's children live fruitful and abundant lives.
Published August 1, 2008

Unleash Your Purpose
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Unleash your purpose-Change your world-Today! Do you know your purpose in life? Are you living up to your full potential? You can do both successfully and powerfully by learning how to unleash the plan your Creator designed especially for you!
Published March 1, 2009

Overcoming Crisis
by Dr. Myles Munroe
You can thrive in crisis!

Myles Munroe teaches how to overcome any crisis by applying the sure wisdom and the time-tested principles of the Kingdom of God.
Published May 1, 2009

Rediscovering Faith
by Dr. Myles Munroe
What is "true faith?" In Rediscovering Faith, Dr. Myles Munroe strips away misconceptions surrounding faith and reveals the nature, character, and power of true faith.
Published August 1, 2009

Single, Married, Separated and Life after Divorce Expanded Edition
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Peace and wholeness is yours.
Enjoy the life you're living by understanding God's plan and His ultimate blessings for you-no matter if you are single, married, separated, or divorced.
Published February 1, 2010

Overcoming Crisis Video Book
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published May 1, 2009

Potential for Every Day Trade Paper
by Dr. Myles Munroe
You can become your best!

One step at a time. One moment at a time. One day at a time.
Myles Munroe keeps you focused on releasing your God-given potential. This awesome daily devotional will help keep you on track to becoming all that God has made you to be.
Published January 1, 2009

Purpose for Living
by Dr. Myles Munroe
365 DAYS TO REALIZE YOUR POTENTIAL!

Combining Scripture and best-selling books Understanding Your Potential, Releasing Your Potential, and Maximizing Your Potential, gives you a powerful jolt of encouragement to become the best you can be!
Published January 1, 2009

Releasing Your Potential Spanish
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Published September 1, 2008

Rediscovering the Kingdom Expanded Edition
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Tap into spiritual reality. Rediscover the greatest idea in human history-God's Kingdom. Understanding kingdom concepts opens the palace gates for your entrance and acceptance. Step in!
Published April 1, 2010

Wisdom from Myles Munroe
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Wisdom for Life Words of wisdom from Myles Munroe wash away all your troubles and trials and present you as a shining masterpiece of God's glory.
Published June 1, 2010

Rediscovering Kingdom Worship
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Worship - the essential key! One reason you may be suffering from a chronic lack of the presence and power of God in your life and church is the lack of purpose and power in your praise and worship.
Published December 1, 2010

Understanding Your Place in God's Kingdom
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Find your true purpose for existence!
This book is about your original purpose for existence and the source of meaning behind your life. In these pages you will discover the Creator's divine motivation, design, and mandate for His creation and your role in that creation.
Published November 1, 2011

Uncover Your Potential
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Break Through!
There is more in you than you realize!
Uncover Your Potential will help you understand why you are uncomfortable with your present state of accomplishment and dissatisfied with only resting on your past success.
Published February 1, 2012

Reclaiming God's Original Purpose for Your Life
by Dr. Myles Munroe
Why are you here?
Have you ever wondered why you are living here and now in this particular place and time in history?
Published June 1, 2012

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