NDAGHA

Grace on my Journey to Success

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 00:56:00 +0000

My first appearance in a family photo, 1985.

At almost 17, my dad allowed me to choose between marriage and education. With my twin sister Mary, I had been repeating Standard 8 class already and some of my older classmates graduated into marriages by my third attempt. This was in the late 80s in Rumphi District, northern Malawi.

From the age of 13, during the long school break (August and September), I could do some piece works for money. But this particular year I did the piece work where my dad had already been working. I was to be there for about two months subject to when the end of primary school exam results would come.

Inspired by her good character and beauty, I admired her. So we started a relationship - yes with no clear path ahead. I did not know how old she was though! We were cheered on by a few others around - endorsing us as a right combination. Dad approved my interest in her. Being well-mannered as she was, he was convinced that she would make a great daughter-in-law. He even promised to meet my bridal price (malowolo) obligations if I so decided to go for her in marriage. He, however, told me that I had the choice between this girl and education, adding that he could go with either of my decision but certainly not both. After repeating standard 8 thrice, the challenge was well understood and appropriate.

So before me now was a tough choice that I had to make. I loved this girl and she was impressive. But now I had to decide between education and marriage. Education represented a sense of success and pride. Marriage represented a feeling of security and pleasure. Faced with that challenge from my dad, I opted for school, hence, I painfully parted ways with her. Almost two decades later, I still vividly remember the struggle I had to let go. I appreciated her understanding of my decision. I had clearly stated to her that while I found no fault with her, I chose to pursue education as the best option at the time.

In many respects, I grew up as a responsible and hardworking boy. I read using a paraffin-lamp commonly called Koloboyi. Occasionally, I even had to read in moonlight especially when we ran out of paraffin for the koloboyi that we could only buy 32 km away.

I had my first pair of shoes at age 15. With my young brother, we molded bricks and built a one-bedroom house (I was 16). I bought my first pair of trousers at age 17. The normal family routine was waking up very early first to go and take care of the family garden and then get ready for school.

Yes, listening to the Nzeru radio was entertainment and a great accompaniment to the garden. In those days, there was only one radio station being the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation, no mobile phones and only one newspaper (The Daily Times). I made the first phone call from a booth when I was almost 19.

Sometimes I think that dad was simply putting me to the test! But when I recall the resolve with which he handled it, he gave a strong impression to make me believe that he meant it. He had tested me also one time to take mutu of Kachasu alcohol (one of Malawi’s hottest/strongest spirit). This was on one Saturday afternoon as we were coming from our farm very tired and thirsty. He asked that we branch to a home where Kachasu was always brewed. He asked the brewery lady to give me a tort. When I resisted the offer, dad sternly warned me against refusing saying that as my father, he knew what was good for my life. I took some but could not finish the whole tort. I never tasted it again. And later he told me that he very was happy that I had learnt my lesson.

My green trousers!

While our family grew up in poverty and financial struggles, I liked dad's resolve to ensure that he still provided for school fees. My older sister had been at Livingstonia Secondary School in Rumphi District, and she was a great inspiration to the family. She was in fact the first in my family and her village community of girls to make it to Secondary school. So days before my sister could go back to school after holidays, dad asked me and my two sisters to carry a total of four tins of beans (I didn't know the weight) and take them to Phwezi Boys Secondary School. With dad himself leading the way, we walked for about 3 hours through the Mzungutwa Hill of Rumphi. We sold a tin at 15 Kwacha and hence we received 60 Kwacha which was the exact amount of school fees that my sister needed to get back to school. Our basic meal (both breakfast and lunch) on that return trip, was the fresh cooked maize and some wild fruits in season. This was in 1987.

Finally, in October 1989, I was selected to Rumphi Secondary School - an achievement that came after four years in Standard 8. As mentioned above, I was a good and hard-working student but selection to secondary school in northern Malawi was very competitive especially in those days. There were only two of us who were selected to secondary school that year from Mphompha Full Primary School.

With the excitement of being finally selected, I did not feel the pain of walking the 32 kilometers from Mphompha to Rumphi Boma. I could not believe that at last I was walking into my desired education path. I had bought a traveling bag at 49 Kwacha 50 Tambala using the salary made from my piece work during the school break. This bag carried among other things, my two pairs of trousers. One of which was a gift from my dad - it was his forestry green uniform. My groceries in the bag included a tablet of Lifebuoy soap, a bottle of body lotion and roasted maize. I never had access to regular toothpaste until when I was in Form 3. I liked short trousers to compliment long ones. Throughout most of my secondary school life, I had to borrow clothes whenever we went outside our school campus especially for visits to other schools. I was among the top ten in my class, and I maintained my Top of the Class representation in the MBC Quiz Competitions from Forms 1 to 4.

While in early primary school, my ambition was to work in radio but this was disturbed around 1988 by a family incident which built up rage in me. An uncle had mysteriously disappeared during the period of dictatorship. He had been an economist for the Government of Malawi at Capital Hill

The house we built (I was 16).

in Lilongwe. I, therefore, developed bitterness against the ruling regime of the time. My vengeful education drive was fully endorsed by my parents and grandfather. So I worked hard in Standard 8 so that I could get selected to Secondary school and eventually to University of Malawi for Social Science which was to lead me to become another economist. But my goal was “kuti adzaone (so that they see) that another of the same blood has come."

So in October 1993 when I was selected to the University of Malawi, it was social science studies that I opted for rather than courses that focused on communications. I felt high as I walked to Chancellor College (from Zomba Bus Depot (about 3km away) carrying my bag which had three trousers, a jacket that dad had recommended me to buy and a few other items. A new life started here.

In 1995, as I was doing my second year at university, I was faced with my identity crisis. I had to seriously deal with several questions about my life and choices including the following: Why did I take the economics class? What was the purpose of my life? Why did I belong to the church I went to? Why did I belong to the tribe I grew up in? Who would I marry?

By this time, several things in my life had also changed. I had received Christian discipleship lessons for five years and was part of senior leadership for the Christian movements on campus, known as the Student Christian Organization of Malawi (SCOM). Having learnt about forgiveness, I had to reflect deeply over why I was pursuing certain things including my economic studies. My view of the world was also getting bigger. The political landscape had also changed from the oppressive dictatorship that had my uncle disappear, to multi-party politics. I, therefore, needed to deal with my bitterness. So I did not graduate as an economist.

I have decided to share this life-story simply to encourage someone to be determined. A lot has happened since these foundational years including being a husband to Thembi and father to four, a holder of some post-graduate qualifications, being a key media practitioner in Malawi and author of three books. I also believe that in sharing such life-stories, I am not only being vulnerable but also accountable to others who have helped me on this journey.

As I look back at my life as a whole, including my educational path, I see God’s Grace! It was God’s unmerited favor that saved me from the early marriage temptation, to escape material poverty and bitterness, and find my identity and wholeness in God. To God be the glory!!

New Book - Kugonana Kopatulika

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 08:57:00 +0000

Kugonana Kopatulika (Holy Sexual Intercourse

Ngati mumapanga manyazi ndi nkhani yakugonana, ngati mumaona kuti kugonana ndi tchimo, ngati simumafuna kukambirana momasuka za kukhutitsana pakugonana, ngati simudziwa chifukwa chomwe mudayambira banja, ngati mukufuna kumakhala ndichiyamiko kwa Mulungu kapena kupemphera pomwe mukugonana; ndiye bukhuli ndi yankho lanu.

Ngati muli ndi mavuto m’banja mwanu, ngati ndinu mphunzitsi wa Mau a Mulungu, ngati ndinu wokhulupilira kuti banja ndi chinthu chabwino, ngati ndinu wokonda kapena kudana ndi banja, ngati mukukonzekera ukwati; ndiye kuti popeza bukhuli, mwapeza chinthu chabwino.

M’chingelezi bukhuli limadziwika kuti Holy Sexual Intercourse (2019) ndipo cholinga chake ndi kulimbikitsa chiyero m’banja. Bukhuli likuyankhanso mafunso opitilira 60 pa nkhani za m’banja komanso kukonzekera ukwati.

When politics decides which road to fix: A case of Mphompha in Rumphi.

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 07:28:00 +0000

This is the worst state of the road in 30 plus years I have used it.

The place broadly called Mphompha in Rumphi has many areas including Usowoya, Uzumara, Jintha Jembe and Khanga. It is only 18 km off Rumphi-Karonga Road as we branch at Thumbi.

Mphompha is a food basket for Mzuzu, Rumphi and Karonga as it produces great vegetables and fruits (including cabbage, bananas, apples, avocado etc.) as well as being hub for Irish potatoes, Beans and Coffee. In years gone, it produced lots of coffee and pine trees. While it produces great wild honey, it has huge potential for wheat farming too.

Electricity only reached the area about five years ago. Since homes are sparsely populated, it will take ages before families can have it in their houses. Electricity remains a facility of the trade centre, a few government institutions and one or two churches along the grid. Finally the place has TNM mobile phone signal beginning two days ago (13th March 2021) after installation of the equipment at Luwogza Hill that uniquely marks Mphompha.

As far as I know, the area has not produced any prominent politician in the 30 years or so but it has been served by Members of Parliament for the Rumphi Central who have included Chakufwa Chihana, Enock Chihana and now Chidumba Mkandawire. In Kamuzu time, there was Nthambazali Nyirenda.

Mphompha is fast losing its earth cover because its ever green hills are being turned into gardens. It has attracted large scale farmers in pineapples, trees, macadamia, bananas, etc. The area remains a beauty all through the plateau (Viphya North as it is climatically called). You can even spot (also adventurously) walk to) Lake Malawi from there through the eastern escarpment and reach places like Zunga, Tcharo, Salawe, Ruarwe even Usisya).

In my book From a Listener to a Broadcaster (2016), I mention it as the foundation for my life. The area is amazingly beautiful, inviting but the road is at its worst state. Yet it is just is small portions that really have gone bad. It was last attended to late 2018 as we were heading to the May 2019 elections. It should not wait for 2024.

From this area are the Msowoya, Mzumara, Khonje, Mhango, Munthali, Nyasulu, Ngwira, Nyirenda, Chavura, Chirambo, Mkandawire, Chibaka, Kapira, etc. In growing up there between 80s and 2000, I knew every home! It has produced some of these national and international children:

Dr. Clement Nyirenda, Counsel Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda, Dr. Makaiko Gonapanyanja Khonje, Dr. Spy Munthali, Dr. Thomas Chataghalala Munthali, Nations Msowoya, Wills Munthali, Grant (Taonga) Mhango of MBC, Kumbukani Msowoya, Israel Chavura, Golie Nyirenda, Ambere (Donald) Kaonga, Gomezgani Nyirenda, Eluwin Shawa, Chief Msowoya, Chelmsford Gondwe, Laston Khonje, Wilson Mkandawire, just to mention a few. Mphompha has nice people most of whom play low profile yet quite influential.

Holy Sexual Intercourse, my new book

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 11:51:00 +0000

Finally, the book Holy Sexual Intercourse is out, printed in Belarus (Eastern Europe). It will be available in Malawi early December 2019. Published by Pan African Publishers, I have focused on the sacredness of the marital bed with reference to Hebrews 13:4:

"Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral."

With 160 pages in 17 chapters, the book tackles issues that ordinarily are not discussed openly in Africa and Malawi.

The foreword is done by Dr. Fulata Mbano-Moyo, a reknown theologian and gender justice activist working with the World Council of Churches.

This is my second book after From a Listener to a Broadcaster (2016) which focuses on my radio journey from being a mere listener while I was in primary school to now when I am on this end of the assignment where I ensure that the broadcast system is available for others to listen.

Only if Chakwera was marketed like SKC

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Sat, 11 May 2019 04:35:00 +0000

Only if Chakwera was marketed like SKC

I thank God for Peter Mutharika for being my president and that of Malawi. I find him to be a very tolerant man whose heart has helped Malawi be stable over these years. Even when he raises something provocatively, you just know it is not really coming from his heart. In the five years gone, there has been less political tension and of course some of us found this status boring. He has allowed to let his vice president and his cabinet minister compete against him in the presidential elections. I have not heard him speak evil against these two. Bravo my president.

I feel that DPP is abusing him for letting him be its torch bearer. Yes I find it to be an abuse given his age and performance. He should have been encouraged and allowed to finish his term with honor and ensure continuity of the development agenda which in my view is one of the best in Malawi. I have never had one to one talk with him but if I am to vote for him, I will do so out of sympathy.

I thank God for Saulos Chilima for his energy and anger at the status quo of Malawi. One senses he is fuming inside and wants to change things. I thank God that in my assessment, I have never heard him speak ill of his boss. If there is anyone who would have made Peter Mutharika cry out daily, it is Saulos. Bravo Saulos for exercising restraint. I am hoping this restraint and respect are genuine and will continue.

I feel that Malawi has moved into a different era of unstoppable change because of Saulos Chilima and the formation of UTM. My concern is on his party which I think needs character growth and political maturity. While I have known him from Chancellor College where I was, I have never really interacted with him to claim knowledge of each other. If I am to vote for him, I will do so out of being impressed by his passion for change which I strongly share.

I thank God for Lazarus Chakwera for accepting to move from the pulpit to the podium. That move faced resistance and raised questions on the involvement of clergy in active politics. His choice and move into MCP has helped renew the party which many Malawians hated. I think he has helped reconcile people and the nation to one another and God. I think the party needed someone like a mature pastor to bring that change. I think Malawians and Christians in particular now do not have questions about a prominent Christian leader vying for the presidency.

My major concern on Chakwera is the resistance that I sense he gets from Malawians and I am sure he knows this. There is a certain feel of resistance or reluctance towards him but it is difficult for me to explain. I get the impression that if Malawians do not vote him as president, he will happily go to God and thank Him for the opportunity he had and for presenting himself to serve Malawians but that Malawians did not think so. I have known him largely in his pastoral work from 1990 when he led me to Christ in Rumphi. If I am to vote for him, I will do so out of conviction that he has the maturity and character of a servant for Malawi.

I thank God for Atupele Muluzi and the rest of the presidential aspirants for marketing themselves and starting to prepare for 2024 and beyond. I like their strategic moves. It is like if someone wants to be running mate in MCP, they have to plan to compete at the convention in 2023 or indeed 2028. In other parties, you can as well wait in the armpits or start your own movement now.

So if Chakwera was marketed like SKC, I think it would have been a much easier ride for him. Meanwhile, I see a real tough game between these three: Peter Mutharika, Saulos Chilima and Lazarus Chakwera though I get the impression that the main game is really between Saulos and Chakwera.

For me, whatever outcome, I will remain thankful to God because Malawi is set for change since the opposition will not only be strong but that the ruling party will want to do its best given the anger Malawians have. We have been cheated before by impressions, rhetoric and intentions and are therefore more careful than ever before. Malawi is already in flames. As someone alluded, the fire is there, the nsima can be cooked and the chicken is available.

Celebrating Menstruation

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Thu, 31 May 2018 05:33:00 +0000

Celebrating Menstruation

We giggled and curiously checked who this happened to in our class. I can't remember if that was in Standard Four or Five. But I liked what the other girls did to cover and lead her carefully out of class. As boys we did not fully understand.

Back at home, dad ensured that girls (my sisters) had their own bathroom. Since we could easily construct one, it was our duty as boys to build but expect girls bring grass for thatching.
My older sisters occasionally did not like us to use the same bathrooms. Those were times when we would be in new residences without two bathrooms.

I grew up with fear and curiosity of menstruation. When I childishly started dating, one girl did not hide, "Nili ku mwezi ine (I am in my monthly period)". We boys laughed but liked her courage.

I thank God for such lessons while a teenager. I celebrate those health moments with you girls and women. I have a wife and three daughters!

A girl who has resolved to be a journalist

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 06:07:00 +0000

Having failed to get a Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE), she abandoned her hopes of becoming a journalist. Encouraged by some family members including her parents, she accepted a marriage proposal. She was eloped but within two weeks of her marriage, the parents-in-law rejected her marriage to their son claiming she was too old for him. They stood their ground and she had no choice but quit the marriage.

Her father was infuriated and decided to disregard her. With no MSCE, no marriage and no parental support, she became hopeless. This is the story of Wongani (not her real name) in Rumphi where she now enrolled in Form 3 at Mphompha Community Day Secondary to pursue her life dream. At 22, she says she is determined to work hard in school and not consider marriage till at the appropriate time.

Wongani was found in a village near a small farm in the North Viphya Plateau of Mphompha in Rumphi. She had heard that at the farm, there was some tree-planting work going on. While the job was largely meant for men as it involved digging holes and moving through some grass and trees, she braved herself and approached the farm manager to ask for a piece work.

“I am looking for money to go and pay school fees. I was kicked out of school in second week of the second term because I had not paid the fees which is K8,500.00. Can I join your men please so that I do some digging for your trees and raise the money?”

The farm manager, Mr Mleya Panja was immediately moved by such a passionate request. He had never met any young lady wanting to do such a hard and dirty job on a farm to raise money for school fees. He reasoned with his working team and they decided to give her the task of moving seedlings to the sites where they were to be planted.

Before work could begin however, the farm manager wanted to be sure his engaging her has the endorsement of her ward. He asked who and where she actually stays. Her response cleared off any mistrust.

“I stay with my aunt, NyaMzembe and she has encouraged me to come and ask for ganyu (piece work). In fact she will also be coming if I tell her you have engaged me.”

The following day, NyaMzembe indeed turned up at the farm first to appreciate the farm manager for engaging Wongani. “Niza kuti nimuongani chomene pakumpasa ntchito Wongani. Naneso makopala nilije kuti nimpase mwana uyu kuti wakalipire fizi (I have to come say to thank you for engaging Wongani. I also do not have money for her school fees).

As if that was not enough, NyaMzembe came to the farm to find out if she could also work to supplement Wongani’s fees. She came ready with her hoe and working gear. Both needed money within three days so that Wongani could go back to school the following Monday.

“My aunt paid the fees during my first term. But now she has failed as she has many demands on her. She has four children three of whom are in secondary school and she is a subsistence farmer.” Explained Wongani.

Wongani comes from a family of six children among whom she is the first born and one of the four girls. While her biological parents are alive and working at someone’s estate in Rumphi West, she said that her father told her he is tired of paying school fees.

“My father paid the fees for me when I was in Forms 1 and 2 at Bolero Community Day Secondary School (in Rumphi) in and then he stopped. Now he says he is tired since he already paid for me earlier when I did up to Form 4 and wrote MSCE where I did not do well. But even he was paying, it was erratic. I could also do some piece works to supplement my school finances.”

Her aunt NyaMzembe said she decided to get Wongani from her biological family so that she could possibly create a better school family environment for her. “This is a daughter to my own brother and I know him very well. Apart from having financial problems, I know he drinks a lot, does not take care of his family and he feels frustrated that his daughter Wongani was kicked out of marriage. I thought she can come and stay with us here and pursue her life dreams.”

With her husband, NyaMzembe said they see that Wongani really wants to do well in school. While she was disturbed having not done well last time largely due to the financial challenges regarding her education, they think she has demonstrated resolve to be educated.

“I want to be a journalist. I get fascinated to follow global events especially as I listen to and watch BBC News. I admire Sophie Ikenye as she presents the news and I just wish I could do the same in time to come.” Explained Wongani with a smile having learnt this interviewer is a journalist.

Asked if there are any other challenges at the secondary school, she said that they learn well though she feels their class periods are short and that “sometimes teachers don’t turn up.”

For the work done in three days, Wongani and her aunt raised K13,000.00 for which the aunt was extremely grateful. By the time, this story was compiled, Wongani had paid the fees (K8,500.00) and was back in class.

&&&&

Update:
Wongani phoned me last week to thank the people that had sent her the money. Two people has sent (through me) K25,900.00 which she had received and she was to pay for her third term fees in advance. She was very appreciative.

After some inquiries on her identity, some of her relatives are organising themselves to help her. I got several requests on who real she is.

I had hoped this story was to be published in one of the newspapers last month.

My Reflections on the Livingstonia Synod and Rev Chimwemwe Mhango Saga

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 09:21:00 +0000

Rev Nyondo and Rev Mhango, Dec 2015.

The year 2017 will be remembered as a special year for the Livingstonia Synod of the CCAP not only because of the ruling over the property at Kanengo Congregation, but also because it is the same year when officially a new church was born out it-the Redeemed Presbyterian Church (RPC) led by Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango. Incidentally, the Supreme Court of Appeal made its ruling on 31^st October and on the same day in 1517, i.e. exactly 500 years ago, Martin Luther allegedly nailed his famous “95 Theses” to the door of the Castle Church. Since the Reformation began, there have been changes of the Church and its culture. The reformation protestants across the world celebrated this journey in various ways over the last ten years. I have been reflecting on the recent developments between the Livingstonia Synod of the CCAP and noted the following:

A congregation can challenge the Decision of the Synod

Contact and Dialogue failed within the church hence the issue was sent to the High Court in 2015 and Supreme Court of Appeal whose judgment concluded put to rest the matter between Kanengo CCAP Congregation and the Synod of Livingstonia. Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango and the Kanengo CCAP Congregation may not have been the first to challenge the decision of the Synod but for some reasons, this matter attracted a lot of attention. What is not clear is whether the congregation was simply challenging the decision of and not the Synod authorities or both. My assessment is that the Synod authorities felt challenged at both the decision and authority levels. Whatever the view, this has set an open precedent that a congregation can challenge the decision of the Synod.

The Livingstonia Synod is a fighter

Kanengo Congregation should have known better than it was starting a battle against its mother Synod which is a fighter and is “used” to handling conflicts. It fights against Government, other Churches, Culture, Systems and institutions. It was only a matter of time for the Congregants to experience the fighting spirit of its Synod. While this was running, the Synod had a case where the election of the incumbent General Secretary was being challenged in court. Also the villagers who have been “encroaching” on the Mission’s land at Ekwendeni have themselves seen how the Synod can use the law and the Police to deal with them. The consequences of the border dispute between Nkhoma and Livingstonia Synods are well known.

RPC is determined to move on

In the last week, I have seen pictures of the Redeemed Presbyterian Church members clearing a new place to be used for church services. The place is near the now-abandoned Kanengo CCAP house where they were. What they have done shows that these people resolved sometime ago to move on. They seem very certain of their way forward and were possibly just waiting for the Court’s guidance. I just have to learn to accept them as a new church in the land and still recognize them as brethren. If I don’t, I will just be wasting my time. As the learned man Gamaliel of the New Testament said once said, "I'm telling you to keep away from these men for now. Leave them alone, because if this plan or movement is of human origin, it will fail.”

A leader is to blame

Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango’s refusal of transfer from the Kanengo Congregation to Ekwendeni is presented to be the cause of the conflict. He is to blame for leading the congregation in a manner that has led to a newest church born out of CCAP. Things should not have not reached this stage. Of course we may not know the issues for his refusal-may be God had spoken to him about this desired direction. But as a leader, it makes sense that he is blamed for these developments. What I don’t know is whether it is justified for anyone to demonize him. It is also obvious that his camp would blame the leaders at the Synod including Rev. Levi Nyondo for these developments.

It is easy to go with the flow yet the battles are personal

As I have written before, the issue at the surface may have been Synod vs. Chimwemwe Mhango and Kanengo Congregation. We have to hope that over the years, there have been no unresolved personal issues between these men of the collar. Unfortunately followers join in and become the grass being trampled as the elephants fight. Nations, Churches suffer because their leaders at the top did not resolve the issues from the past.

We all need help

They may or may not admit that they have been injured. But it is obvious that deep within their hearts the Synod leaders, Rev. Mhango and the congregants know that this has left a wound which needs healing. All need help. They need wisdom, courage, peace, etc to deal with these matters. I imagined the pain they may have felt to see Rev. Mhango (whom they developed for 21 years) and Kanengo Congregation challenge them. I also imagine how much prayer and moral support Rev. Mhango and his team needs. I recalled Rev. Mhango’s 1993 song “Wandiitana Ambuye kudzaweta Nkhosazo” (The Lord has called me to shepherd his sheep) and wondered how he might be feeling-may be questioning if that call is still there or not.

Not sure what the Synod has won

In December 2015, I wrote an article stating that in fact the Synod had won the same case against itself. The recent ruling confirms that position still. The more I thought about that, the more I asked myself if the Synod would honestly say what exactly it is that it has won. I thought about its mission. I wondered if it wasn’t time for it to mourn over the lost souls which are rebellious. If a child rebels, would the parent rejoice if indeed the child moves far away from home?

Don’t forget it is a small world

Reading and hearing the comments attacking the Mhango Camp and his camp attacking the synod officials gives one the impression that people forget that the world (and Malawi) is quite small. For the sake of community peace and the higher calling of love, I would restrain myself from demonizing either camp because I may as well be throwing stones on my neighbor, daughter-in-law, lecturer, even pastor. I would not demonize Rev. Nyondo and the Synod leadership because these are our leaders called to serve and discipline us. Wisdom and restraint have to prevail. Even if I wanted to, would it be fair to attack your parents, friends, brothers in the Lord?

Nkhoma Synod vs. Livingstonia Synod issue in background

One wonders if the Kanengo CCAP Congregation saga would have arisen if Livingstonia and Nkhoma Synods moved on amicably and resolved not to move into each other’s historical territories. The Kanengo Congregation would not have been born neither would Rev. Mhango have come to Lilongwe because at the back of their mind, the Livingstonia Synod strategically sent Mhango to Lilongwe to fulfil a certain mission. Issues bear other issues.

Synod loyalists, not Christ’s

Since this issue arose (even that of the synod boundary), it has revealed who is loyal to Synod(s) while some have moved out or indeed decided just to laugh about it. However there are many Presbyterians who are bothered by these conflicts and feel embarrassed of their church and Synod leadership. What is surprising though is that some people seem to rejoice more and loyal to Synod than to Christ.

The devil has found space to hit on the Body of Christ

Conflicts within the church attract ridicule from all sorts of persons including those who don’t know Christ as personal Lord and Savior. Hearing some statements around the issues, a Christian would be wiser if they deciphered if what they were hearing from someone is from the Lord or not. History has shown that some people could only grow to maturity, responsibility and higher impact if they moved out of their current institutions. History will judge Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango if his ministry through CCAP was only a preparatory ground for something bigger.

While there are many other lessons, the key lesson (which is rather frustrating to me) out of all this is that many who know these issues well do not want to write and share in public. May be it is a characteristic of Presbyterians!

Why I risked the hills and forests in Chitipa

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 12:20:00 +0000

Nicholas is set to ride on.

We started off at 12 noon for the 120 km stretch to Nthalire north west of Chitipa. Nthalire is about 140 km north west of Rumphi accessed through a road that passes through Nyika National Park. So it is very much between Chitipa and Rumphi both of which lie in the national boundary with Zambia. Loaded with two boxes of Bibles (totaling 48); we strapped everything including our bags on the Yamaha Motorbike. Nicholas Mbughi made sure that everything was properly tied so that we could survive any fall-offs of the items.

There was no vehicle that was going in our direction for the entire three and half hours but we met five vehicles going in our opposite direction. This Chitipa-Nthalire is rough and therefore not ideal for any salon vehicle. Four by Four motor vehicles are the appropriate ones. While I initially planned to drive, two friends at Chitipa Boma advised me against that and instead said I use a motorbike.

Finally Nthalire was in sight after we passed through well-known centres of Chendo, Chisenga and Wenya. We arrived in full dust colors of the 120 km stretch passing through mostly a forest along which there are sparse populations.

My cousin Catherine kindly welcomed me with a warm bath before we could exchange any greetings. I must have looked in sorry state of dust. Her old daughter Chifundo (19) made me relaxed as we talked about the area and her academic studies.

Later that evening, she disclosed to her mother (Catherine) that in fact, I was not new to her. She said she had seen me at Chitipa Secondary School two years earlier when I spoke at the youth conference which she attended. She was in fact one of the recipients of the Bibles I had taken there. I was elated to know that here was someone who had already benefitted from the Bible distribution. While in that conference, I did not know she was there too as we had never met before.

Walking to Church with Bibles

Nthalire is being urbanized, supplied with electricity, a rural hospital (not clinic!), a small stadium, and a number of other new structures. There are at least two modern secondary schools and a community radio station-the first in the entire Chitipa District. The trading centre has a range of services for groceries but has no bank.

On Sunday morning, I decided to join the Presbyterians in a special church service-special in that it was to be followed by a fundraising activity to raise money for the Livingstonia Synod.

When I asked my cousin what the money was for, she had no idea really apart from recalling that the church leaders had told the congregants that the money to be raised was to help clear off debts incurred the Synod. Upon hearing that, I told her that I normally do not make any financial commitments to such fundraising events whose goal is simply to raise and pay off debts incurred by the Synod headquarters over 800 km away! She seemed to take my line!

Any way, it was fun to be in the service and I stayed on up to 12:00 in a service that had started at 8 am. Chitumbuka was used as that is the dominant language. I gather the service carried on till 3pm and they raised almost 1.1 million Kwacha (est. 1500 US Dollars).

What I liked though was that the service accommodated my visit whose aim was simply to share with them Bibles that I had carried with me all the way from Lilongwe. During time for announcements, the church minister in charge introduced me and invited 22 persons to the front on condition that they read and understand English. He told them that he had a gift for each of them. By the way, we had agreed just before the service began that the other 24 Bibles would be shared with other smaller congregations surrounding Nthalire.

Nthalire Community Radio, in former MTL House

The members reluctantly pulled off from their seats and walked upfront. I think they were not sure what was to follow them since the church minister had only asked them to come forward-a thing that rarely happens in some churches in Malawi. Well, the brave did. He then told the congregation that each of the 22 was going to get a copy of the Bible. There was joy. Of course he also told them that I would need a picture of the group that would have received the Bibles.

Crosbel, Shadrick, Washington and Jenala

Because of my other commitment with Nthalire Community Radio from 1pm that Sunday, I sneaked out a few minutes after 12. I wanted to interact with my radio friends and possibly train them in one or two areas. The radio station is the first in Chitipa district so it generates a lot of pride around there much as it does not have much content except for playing music and sharing greetings.

Most of Chitipa district has MBC (state broadcaster) signal with Tuntufye FM and ZBS Radios filling in some portions. Otherwise crossboarder radio stations entertain, educate and inspire the so-called International Malawians. Not long after we started interacting at the station, electricity went off thereby putting the station off air as no stand-by generator exists. The power failures-I got to learn-were too common such that the four-member volunteer team of this radio station said that they are used to such blackouts. This means they are only on air when there is electricity.

One of them, Shadrick said the women in the villages get to know if the electricity-run maize mills are working if the Nthalire Community Radio Station is on. This means that they leave their radio sets on (on their phones) and once power is back, they are alerted by the station being on air. I encouraged them by saying that the fact that the community knows the power problems, they should not worry as this is an issue beyond their control. Indeed during my three days there, power was actually off for 65 percent of the time.

Monday midday came. When everything was done, and it was time for me to leave back for Chitipa, I learnt from Nicholas that in fact he was not going to arrive in time to pick me back to Chitipa. He had returned to Chitipa on his motorbike and committed to get back to Nthalire on Monday morning to pick me. He was held at Chisenga Police Road block for using a motorbike whose insurance had expired. This day, traffic police from Chitipa Boma had come to Chisenga (about 45 km) to this Chisenga area to track vehicles that were ferrying people and stuff to a flea market that day.

In my quick thinking, I decided to hire another motorbike to take me from Nthalire to Chisenga where I could find Nicholas hoping that then I could help settle the spot fine and proceed to Chitipa. So within a few minutes, the motor bike was available and after saying farewell to my cousin, nephews and nieces, I was off on my way. It took us 90 minutes to get to Chisenga. The ride this time was much better for me as I had the road status already known to me.

Chisenga Police Road Block

By the time I arrived at Chisenga Police Road Block, around 4pm, a traffic police officer known by the name Manda had apparently left for Chitipa with the motorbike keys! Nicholas told them he had no money to pay on the spot but that he was willing to pay while at Chitipa Boma. He had used an official motorbike.

When I called Manda to negotiate that I pay on that spot, he argued that he could not have waited as the fine should have been paid on the spot but I asked him if by expecting us to pay at Chitipa boma (45 km away), it was still be a spot fine. He failed to answer my questions and I mentioned it to him that what he did was very unfair and not within the traffic regulations. In fact he made me mad.

Snapshot of Misuku Trading Centre

Finally after 4 hours of waiting for any lift to Chitipa, we got one on a 2-tonner pick-up that was coming from transferring someone to another health centre within Chitipa District. Nicholas and I found space right on top of the stuff being transferred. All we needed was to get to Chitipa Boma that evening. After an hour and half of a ride back, we arrived at Chitipa, dirty and dusty but safe.

I was glad to have visited Nthalire the home of a number of prominent Malawians including Chipimpha Mughogho who had founded Phwezi Secondary Schools (and instrumental in politics through AFORD), Legson Kayira (from neighboring Wenya) who wrote the book I will try, and Rodwell Munyenyembe who was speaker of Malawi's National Assembly and died on duty n 2005.

Foggy Hills of Misuku

On the following Tuesday, I drove 58 km to Misuku Hills to escort my parents where they were to see parents of their son-in-law. There is a tradition in Chitipa which demands that parents of the couple should visit each other at least within the first five years of marriage. My parents felt it was time to also visit their counterparts.

Misuku is very hilly with portions of the road so steep that government had to put cement concrete ensure safe passage on those slippery places. It is in the Makeye Village, Misuku that I found a team of people in need of Bibles too. The beauty is that generally there is high English literacy in the Misuku Hills so even the seemingly old persons do read and understand English. They beamed with joy at receiving the Bibles and promised to read with those who were not able to access one.

Makeye Village, Misuku, Chitipa

I had last passed through Nthalire about twenty-years ago but I had never been to Misuku Hills. Riding a bike to Nthalire and driving to Misuku gave me a unique experience and appreciation of the transportation problems in the district. Both places are beautiful, agriculture-based and are rich in languages. Being in the boarder areas with Zambia and Tanzania, Chitipa is fun to know the cross-boarder relationships. This visit made my glimpse of Chitipa complete.

I have been to a number of districts in Malawi including Mulanje, Phalombe, Dedza, Rumphi and Mzimba on these Bible missions. And this one was another special in my holiday.

For both of these recent trips, my heart was at ease because I was confident of God’s presence, protection, anointing and energy to meet the challenges. These four days were a real adventure and added spiritual value to my holiday. I think I came back safely to tell this story.

I saw a 2-week old baby on a bike

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Sat, 18 Mar 2017 06:10:00 +0000

When a 2-week old baby is on a bike.

It hit me immediately the moment I saw them standing their roadside between Chimbiya and Mtendere in Dedza. They had alighted off the bicycle and seeming wanting to take some rest when we arrived on the spot. This was around noon Friday 17^th March on our way to Malirana about 13 km from Chimbiya off the Lilongwe-Blantyre Road. I was with my colleague Janet to meet listeners to TWR.

At the sight of the baby in the young mother’s hands, my heart got angry-wondering what a torture this must be to the fresh mother and the baby too. Within me was anger at the man carrying them but also at the mother carrying the baby. I did not just expect they would be on a bike because it all did not seem right.

I stopped, asked to know where they were going and offered to carry the young mother to the hospital at Mtendere (belonging to the Roman Catholic about ten kilometres ahead). The man refused and she agreed, though they seemed not very sure they were really saying no. I asked, “Are you sure?” to which they responded, “Ayi, pitani, tiyenda…” (No, just go ahead, we will make it).

I said, “Are you afraid of us-afraid that we might go with the baby since this happens sometimes? For your information, we are from Trans World Radio and would really want to help…” At the mention of Trans World Radio, their faces brightened up. Within me, I recalled the many times people have refused a lift yet they are desperate. Honestly, I was not going to let this moment pass like that. NO. This team needed help.

The man asked, “Ah Trans World Radio? And you are…?” I responded, “I am Victor Kaonga… If you doubt, see my TWR-branded T-Shirt I am wearing”. But also here is a brochure for TWR…?

I joked that that they looked to be first time parents and that I could identify with the pride but also their struggle in taking a baby to the hospital. He explained that they were going to the hospital for medical check as she had delivered nine days earlier at Dedza District Hospital.

He asked who the lady is (in the vehicle on the passenger side). I advised him to come near and hear her response by himself. He told us that they are regular listeners to TWR and they were very blessed to have met some TWR people they had just been hearing about.

His wife happily walked towards the car and I promised to take her and the baby to the hospital. He was to come behind us, cycling his way up. I pitied the young mother and the baby-yes even her father. But I was proud of their courage and adventure.

As we drove on, we learnt that the baby had been born on 8^th March and is a boy, named Truth. She did confirm that this was her first born child. With her husband, they had done teacher training but at their home around Chimbiya, from where they were waiting for posting.

The young mother told us that while she had delivered at Dedza District Hospital which was about 20 km away from their home and more accessible by public transport, they were advised to get to the nearest hospital for post-delivery check up.

It was lunch-time at the time we arrived at the hospital. This meant that she was to wait for an hour and half before being attended to. I asked for her phone number so that we could call her on our way back and possibly pick her again should they be through by then. She had left her and her hubby’s phone at Chimbiya to have the batteries charged. I then wrote my number on a paper and we agreed that they could borrow a phone later and update us. Thankfully her hubby arrived and I gave the same instructions.

On our way back from Malirana, we decided to branch to the hospital to check if they had been assisted-after all we had received no call by this time (almost at 2:45 pm). As we approached the car park, we noticed they were just getting out of the hospital-just on time as they were now through. They, like us, were overjoyed to see each other again sensing the timeliness of our arrival.

The man escorted her into the car while he was carrying the baby. We told him that were going to drop her at their home at Chimbiya. He said he had no words with which to thank us. He gladly stayed behind to pedal off after us.

As we neared her home, she guided us on how to reach her village but also on which route to take back to the main road. At her home, she insisted we needed to alight off the vehicle so that she could give us some fresh maize.

Yes I was both angry and excited. Angry at the man thinking he was cruel to the wife and the baby. Angry at the young mother, feeling she was unfair to the baby. Yes angry at myself that I have not been angry enough, may be, to educate new parents on how to prepare for their children. I had told her that I have kids myself and even retired from having more!

But I was also excited that in spite of our hustles earlier on the other routes before Chimbiya, the best we could do was to assist this family of Philemon, Annie and Truth. These were my real listeners.

I believe in churches breaking up!

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Tue, 29 Nov 2016 02:47:00 +0000

I believe in churches breaking up!

When churches break up for whatever reasons, it becomes news and a point for heavy debate. Most people don’t like to hear and experience church break-up. What I just find fascinating is that majority of us are in fact beneficiaries of churches breaking up.

Rev Hamilton Y. Gama, Source: Brian Kamwendo

As I heard about Nkhoma Synod consecrating Mzuzu congregation this past weekend and the induction of Rev Hamilton Yassin Gamah as the first historic minister of the congregation and Northern Region, I had mixed feelings. By the way, what is the church called now-Mzuzu CCAP of Nkhoma Synod…?

Here is my brother in the Lord I have known and worked with for many years now getting into the “Livingstonia Synod territory” where my other brothers, uncles, parents, etc are church ministers. Do I rejoice or feel bad about the developments? Knowing the history of conflict of Livingstonia and Nkhoma Synods, I was not sure how to take the news! For a reminder, Livingstonia Synod set up a similar congregation in the heart of Lilongwe which is headquarters to Nkhoma Synod, almost ten years ago!

To my brother Rev. Hamilton Yassin Gamah and Nazulu, congratulations on such a bold move in the ministry of the Lord. The journey has been long. Rev Brian Kamwendo (of Nkhoma Synod) who shared this news on facebook is himself a long time friend and at one time a colleague at TWR. So, in addition to CCAP (Sinodi) and my church, this new Nkhoma Synod Congregation gives me more opportunities for fellowship in the regional town. I think it is just the names that will be confusing initially!

But yes the issue of churches developing this way got me thinking again. For a moment, my mind went back to history and remembered that in fact churches have always broken up from individual congregations, churches, synods, unions, assemblies, etc. Even the growth of the New Testament was based on the scattering of the apostles which eventually led to the growth of the church. These breakups have always extended the Kingdom of God and its influence.

The churches born out of break-ups have some needs which they meet. The older churches will always contest this because often they are too comfortable within them. They are like Hillary Clinton and Trump. The former camp thinks they are best placed to continue meeting the needs of the people forgetting they are few if not many others disgruntled ones that need some healing too.

A group enjoys the warmth and fellowship together and even when the numbers are huge, people enjoy belonging to that group even if no one knows them at the church. Parting ways is painful hence most churches are uncomfortable to breakup.

We forget that God in fact included the breaking-up as part of His Kingdom growth strategy. If children decided not to move away from parents, there would be no successive generations or indeed growth the family line. Breaking camp enabled growth of empires.

As people and churches break away to form new ones, they discover new and utilize their gifts to the maximum. They extend their area of influence thus populating many areas with the Gospel. Just thirty years ago, Malawi had much fewer churches than they are now. The revivals and the break-ups then led to a growth in the Pentecostal and charismatic movement which has subsequently revived the mainline churches too. Little did we know thirty years ago that Malawi would have churches like the Living Waters, Calvary Family Church, Presbyterian Church in Malawi, Charismatic Renewal Ministries International, etc. And then the coming in of Nigeria-founded churches has also in its own ways shaken and strengthened the earlier established ones.

While there is often confusion, anger and competition for and in resources and members during such break-ups, things tend to normalize after ten or so years. These break-ups disturb the status-quo and makes people wake up and adjust in ways that attract growth and maturity in them.

While I do not like the personal effects of any church break-up, I believe the developments are for the good of the church and God’s Kingdom.

Lastly, here is a warning; even this new congregation should be ready for a break-up soon or later if God’s Kingdom through Nkhoma Synod is to move on. You may not like this statement but if you are Kingdom-minded, you will welcome it. In fact, at this rate, we need more new churches, as long as they are Christ-centered, committed to thorough Bible-teaching and Kingdom led.

Disclaimer: I am not a church historian.

What this whole hullabaloo about Accreditation won’t tell us

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 19:15:00 +0000

The recent press releases from National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) indicating the accreditation stati for most of Malawi’s universities (public and private) has created a lot of debate. NCHE should be applauded for the work it is doing. Since most of us may not know much about it, it is also understandable why we ask many questions about its ratings.

The more I thought about the reactions and debates following the discrediting and accrediting of some universities, the more questions I had and also the more issues I recalled from the past. (I should declare that I am a direct beneficiary of four of Malawi's universities). I once belonged to a satelite council of a foreign-based private university.

I thought NCHE is very clever as it won’t tell us many things including:

That there is a difference between recognition and accreditation. Some of these institutions may have been recognized to be present in Malawi but not accredited.
The fact that one of its council members is a Vice Chancellor and Chancellor of two universities-not sure how objective he would be in this business of accrediting or discrediting.
That each university has its own conception and delivery period. Some of thes are only less than five years and you cannot compare with the mulitiple-decade old ones.
That some institutions like African Bible College had their own teething problems in the 1990’s when Ministry of Education gave it very tough standards to go by. At the time, yes ABC was a college offering one degree programme.
That offering university level education is also a business and the owners are making money.
That most if not university leaders are products of the University of Malawi which is a mother university. The same has produced many persons who have ventured in setting up these many private universities.
That some of the new private universities have a few courses/programmes that are more popular than the traditional public universities.
That there are governance battles in each of the Malawi’s universities-we are not just told what they really are!
That the poor state of tertiary education is reflection of the poverty of the country. If the economy is bad, the universities will barely make it to the minimum standards to survive.
There are petty jealousies as some people who were not selected into the University of Malawi want to prove to others that in fact they were also university material. A real problem captured in Malawi’s national anthem.
That universities will always want to outshine one another in all areas that concern them.

And finally, we will not be told as one professor said in 2012 that in fact, setting up a university in Malawi has been much easier than starting a primary school. May be this is what NCHE has come to address!

Why I have Written the book "From a Listener to a Broadcaster"

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 14:43:00 +0000

This Sunday 31st July 2016 will be the culmination of a 27 year-old journey from being a mere radio listener while in primary school to being one of the privileged few to now generating and providing content, in addition to managing some aspects of the radio organization.

As the book From a Listener to a Broadcaster will be officially launched, I look forward to both an exciting and emotional time with listeners, family members, friends, colleagues, partners, supporters, church leaders and their members as well as politicians among others.

As I sat down a few days ago, I reflected on why exactly I wrote the book. And I can pull out the following reasons, factors and influences:

To share my life story, made by God. I believe it is a story worth sharing.
To celebrate what God has done in my life and those around me.
To inspire and encourage others.
To add to the knowledge on the media in Malawi.
To document important milestones for TWR (where I work). It is a lead Christian broadcaster in Malawi.
To share my passion and therefore ask for support to fulfil it.
To make myself vulnerable. I need your support to be a broadcaster.

Highlights of the book

Chapter 3: How Trans World Radio was founded – Story by Pearson Chunga. It is a very moving description

Chapter 4: How difficult it was to start TWR on FM. I have in mind the role of MEMA Studios, the Baptist Media Centre, Radio ABC, etc.

Chapter 10: My roots in Radio-the chapter with our family photo when I was 12. This is the first ever photo I took (yes at 12).

Chapter 18: My chat with Mama Cecilia Tamanda Kadzamira

Chapter 20: A phone call that caused me great stress

Chapter 22: Personal renewal Chapter.

Chapter 25: How I met Thembi-A Chapter she has written.

Among many, my thanks to designer Paul Machewere for the great job on the book and my website. I am proud of Pan African Publishers Ltd for the job well done. My very special thanks to Trans World Radio for the support, space and encouragement to write the book.

Why No Independence Celebrations is Good News

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Fri, 01 Jul 2016 03:53:00 +0000

Someone said, "if you want to remember something, celebrate it". But the news from Malawi's Capital Hill that there won't be any 6th July Independence Celebrations this year is good news to me. It is good news because indeed there is nothing that we will need to remember about this and the last few years.

It is good news because there is nothing after all that is inspiring us to celebrate. The 30th June newspapers carried several pages of problems raised by the Public Affairs Committee (PAC) with deadlines for action. Reading through those pages, it is like we are a nation that is doomed because action is far from being made. In fact even the dialogue between government and PAC itself needs dialogue!

The government has made a wise decision because when indeed there is no money to organize something, you have to admit you don't have the money. So it is like the government is surprised July 6 is here again. It has wisely admitted that it could not call for special contributions or indeed still organize something small. The government has shown wisdom is suspecting people won't make any donations if it appealed to them to contribute towards the celebrations. In its wisdom, the government doesn't think people can actually celebrate in some style.

Not celebrating this time is good news because we have celebrated enough some of the same achievements from years past. We celebrated the achievements under Kamuzu for a full 30 years. We celebrated the same and more under Muluzi for 10 years. We added to the same list a few items during Bingu's time for almost 7 years. We have now run out of issues and items to celebrate for and about.

I like the wisdom by the government because this means that we will not be hearing so and so from that opposition political party ignored the national event. So it means we will be spared from those party colors which while so good but do not mean nationalism but simply party-ism.

That the celebrations won't be there will make me recall even more the days in primary school when at area or branch level, a cow could be slaughtered and people from the entire area could gather at a local primary school, eat and dance together because Malawi was independent.

Each 6th July was special because as boys we could wake up early and be at the school, ready to see the cow butchered so that we collect its blood and boil (luwende). That day we did not care yet about putting on best clothes as long as we were set to eat beef.

I like the idea of the no celebrations because the government is very honest about itself. It knows it is dependent so if someone does not give you money, how do you celebrate? What an admission of dependency. At 52, we are more dependent than when we were a toddler. That is Malawi.

Gospel Music DVDs Offer Great Entertainment

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 13:30:00 +0000

I watched the first gospel music when I was in my late teens. There was a video deck and a video which we had to rewind if we wanted a second view. It captured my imagination. Though I cannot remember much about it, what I do recall about it are two things-modesty and the message. The "performers" were modestly dressed and their message was about discipleship.

Gospel Sounds Africa, one of my special and exceptions.

In 1995, I watched Allan Ngumuya record his video from the Open Theatre grounds of Chancellor College. The process fascinated me as the items were pieced together at the Audio-Visual Centre (AVC). That was the nearest thrill I ever had to see Gospel music and the artist being captured for a video to be released later. By end 1990, Gospel music videos were very popular.

Then there developed a boom of music studios in Malawi from around 2002, when we saw an immediate rise in music on CDs and the phrase "burning the CDs" became fashionable. From around that time, the Copyright Society of Malawi seemed overtaken by the rise of music albums on the markets. DVDs too followed and it was a big story and achievement to hear if an artist had released a DVD. Yes the entertainment industry was growing big.

While all this was happening, I recall that soon, many Gospel artists and groups emerged and desired to produce an audio album and then by now most have produced several DVDs. Great developments indeed. When MBC TV was born in April 1999, we started glueing ourselves to the TV to watch Malawi's artists on screen. MBC TV recorded lots of artists for their programmes and artists and church groups even competed in booking to be recorded so that they can appear on TV.

Before other TV stations popped up in Malawi, I would say that most Gospel artists wanting to appear on that screen had a lot of modesty and seriousness to their messages and performances. Looking back now, I can speak without contradicting myself that most of the artists were back then singing and not dancing as is common these days. They also focused on the evangelistic and discipleship messages in their songs.

I wished I said the same for today 17 years after Malawi had its its first tv station. Earlier this April, I counted at least 13 TV stations on air in Malawi. What is common on almost each one of them is Gospel music that offers good entertainment. Sometimes there is so much dancing that you mistake for any other secular song. More than that, some songs are danced in a manner that make you switch to another station just because the dancing especially by younger artists are just too suggestive. All these happening at the watch and "discipleship" of the same churches that would not dare allow such "entertainment" a few Sunday years ago.

While watching one channel this afternoon, there was a ladies Church choir being featured. The ladies appeared in five different outfits for various settings on the same song. I imagined how much it would have costed them to produce entire DVD. The message in their song was all about them. The dancing gave me a good watch-yeah some were panting for breath. Were they any different when I hoped to another channel? NO!

Few seem keen to record on stage (by the way, I like watching stage music). May be the stage does not give much dancing space neither much producer/videographer creativity. May be the stage recordings limit one as the audience may be restrictive, may be-I know not. I also wonder how much money goes into the DVD production. Unfortunately, I gather that there is also some bargaining with TV stations to play their DVDs.

I like their commitment to recording and releasing DVDs. Gospel music has really changed a lot in Malawi and beyond. But I wonder why we hear very little in these DVDs about the call to a personal faith in Christ and the journey. Most of the music we watch these days is very appealing and I think it has its unique place in reaching out to the lost. Its dance-approach seems to be fashionable. It should be serving a certain need in the Church-may be.

I am happy that a good number of Gospel artists emphasize praise and worship in the DVDs. I am only hoping that the inner goal is not that they be seen to be good at praise and worship. Of course most of what I watch is offering good entertainment. I stand to be encouraged and corrected. I may just be myopic and insensitive or even too conservative. Yes, I am not sure if I understand why most Gospel artists are and want to be on DVD. It is an outbreak. May be this is why I am still wondering why I have to write about it now.

God Speaks chiLambya in Chitipa

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 12:27:00 +0000

A few months ago, I made a risky indication to the Bible Society of Malawi when they announced that there would be in April 2016 the launch of the much-awaited Bible (New Testament) in chiLambya called Ulufingo Ulupya. I had told the leadership that I would love to be there.

A few days before Saturday 23rd April, I got a call from Bible Society asking if I would be attending the approaching launch in Chitipa. Uh... They caught me in dilemma

On the same Saturday, I had other commitments in Lilongwe and that meant I would not make it to Chitipa for Saturday 700 km away. I asked for a few minutes so that I could give it a thought much as I had promised to attend.

I had expressed interest to attend the launch because chiLambya is my mother toungue though I have never lived in Chitipa-I have grown up elsewhere and in Rumphi where Chitumbuka is mostly spoken. I have had to learn chiLambya from my parents both of whom were born and grew up in Chitipa. The language was one of the smallest yet to have Scriptures in its language. ChiLambya has no less than 160,000 speakers from Chitipa, North-West Zambia and Southern Tanzania.

So I thought witnessing the launch of the Ulufingo Ulupya (New Testament) would be a special cultural event to me personally. But apart from that personal reason, I serve on the Board of Directors for the Bible Society of Malawi and being there, would be fulfilling one of our duties as directors. A launch of any translation is a milestone which the leadership is proud of. And then also being a broadcaster with TWR, the Bible is a major tool. Hence its being available in one more language is something worth celebrating. So yes, many hats but one presence. It was a special time and I will live to remember.

Senior Chief Mwaulambya said he was very happy that the Bible was translated into chiLambya language which he believed is an important tool for helping transform people’s lives from vices that his community struggles with. “The Holy Spirit has been poured into the community.” he declared. Mwaulambya appealed to the people to buy, use and obey the Bible as written in chiLambya. He took time to read a portion of the Scriptures in ChiLambya.

According to the Bible Society of Malawi, translation work into chiLambya started in 2004 but work on the Old Testament continues and is expected to be launched in 2018. The translation into chiLambya was in response to appeals by several Christians in Chitipa who wanted the Scriptures in chiLambya. ChiLambya is one of the 11 languages spoken in Chitipa but understood also by the Ndali, Banyika, BaMambwe, BaNamwanga, BaBandya tribes spread out in northern-most Malawi, Southern Tanzania and Western Zambia.

Speaking during the launch, Clapperton Mayuni, Executive Director of the Bible Society of Malawi said the Society was thankful to God that finally the project had come to fruition and to be used for evangelism and discipleship. “This time each person has an opportunity to hear God’s Word in their own language. God is speaking chiLambya today”. He said,

The translation team was drawn from various churches including CCAP and the Roman Catholic Church. Translation Consultant at United Bible Societies Gerrit van Steenbergen declared that the Ulufingo Ulupya of the Bible is a faithful translation of the original Scriptures in Greek.

I bought eleven copies-one for myself and Thembi, four for our children who are keen to learn their grandpa's language and the remainder for friends. The excitement and joy was obvious through the march, singing, Bible recitals and of course feasting.

Having left for Chitipa on Friday and arrived back in Lilongwe at 11pm on Saturday, I can only say "Chala, ughindikiwe, ndagha nkhani Chala pakutupa amazgu ghako" (Glory to God, thank you very much for giving us your Word).

I first heard my voice on MBC radio

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 05:02:00 +0000

The 11th and 12th March 1990 are eventful days for me as I remember two special things in my life. It was on Sunday 11th March 1990 that I first heard my voice on MBC radio. I had been selected to be my school and class’ representative in a national radio quiz competition highly popular at the time, known as Top of the Class Quiz competition.

In the competition, each school selected top performing students to compete against rival schools in a question and answer session which was recorded and aired on the sole radio station, MBC at a later date.

My first ever quiz competition was recorded in October 1989 and was broadcast on national radio in the evening of Sunday, March 11, 1990. Prior to hearing my voice on radio, the only other time my name was on radio was when results of Primary School Leaving Certificate were being announced.

Back then, opportunities for High School (secondary education) were very limited with very few secondary schools available against ever increasing numbers of pupils in the final class of primary school, ready to take the next step. Pupils would write examinations one year, not get selected, repeat the following year and year after with most eventually just dropping out.

For those that got selected they would have their names announced on a radio which represented a very proud moment. Then, there was only one radio station in Malawi.

I was selected in my fourth attempt from a rural school called Mphompha in Rumphi district, northern Malawi. Hearing my name on radio as one of the selected students was very delightful.

But hearing my actual voice – on the night of March 11, 1990 – was beyond words. The following day, March 12 was yet another special and memorable day for me. It was on this day that I made a conscious decision to follow Christ led by Pastor Lazarus Chakwera.

I think the rest of this story should be in a book!

What the Homosexuality Debate Reveals

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Wed, 13 Jan 2016 09:10:00 +0000

The debate on homosexuality reveals two things: Firstly, that most of us do not love. Secondly, the devil is distracting us from real issues.

Let love be the only block to progress

During an interview in 2013, a pastor (all identities withheld) told me she was not sure if she was male or female. She broke down in tears as she was to respond to my question on who influenced her the most in her life. I sensed her emotions.

We paused for a few minutes and she composed herself. She offered to share why she broke down off record after the interview. In fact, having heard that, I wondered if I was interviewing a male or female. I will never forget that interview and the situation as it opened my eyes to a number of things about the struggles people carry. It also challenged my approach to people who have various deep fears and secrets about their lives.

She was not practicing homosexuality but explained the struggle she had in her upbringing. Her grandmother and some family members as well as church members affirmed that she was a wonderful creation of God. It is that love she received that made her grow up as a person of value. Of course she still had questions about her sexuality even when she became a pastor.

Her breaking down during the interview was because my question reminded her of the person that had influenced her the most-the granny. The granny had passed on a few years earlier. She said she missed the acceptance and pride she received from her granny and many others who had known her struggle. She stated that it is such people of love that added a lot of value to her Christian life.

If we loved, we would not create space for many evils that show up in people. I believe that many who practise homosexuality are looking for love. They have not been loved. They have been condemned instead of condemning their acts. Yes they have an orientation to practise homosexuality just like most of us have an orientation to steal, practise sexual immorality, etc.

On another note, this debate is a mere distraction from real issues. No sane donor government will stop supporting Malawi because of stringent laws on homosexuality. No sane government will fear a donor because that donor demands release of a homosexual. No sane church will prioritise and waste time to preach and teach against homosexuality. Sane donor governments will always uphold the values that it stands for and respect the sovereignty of governments it supports. No sane government will waste the resources and time for its citizens and yield to a referendum on homosexuality. Homosexuality is not new-been there for thousands of years. No government collapsed because it said no to homosexuals.

There are many real issues, things that are critical to governments and the Church. Such need the attention and not homosexuality. These debates are a mere distraction. I wished the Church sensed that. The church is God's institution that moves on because people accept the love of God and practise it in full to all. A sane church will teach and preach the love of God through Christ. We have much more to gain in love.

When the CCAP won a Court Case Against Herself

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Fri, 18 Dec 2015 20:49:00 +0000

Enukweni CCAP. Structures like this can be source of tension in Churches.

The judgment by Honorable Justice Charles Ching’anya Mkandawire in a case involving the CCAP Synod of Livingstonia is most welcome. Honorable Mkandawire is a man of impeccable credentials, having served as the Chairperson of the Industrial Relations Court (1998-2001), Registrar of the SADC Tribunal (2006-2014) and Regional President of the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Association for East and Southern Africa (2012). No wonder his judgment was full of wisdom.

I fully agree with the Judge that Church matters need not to be taken to court but rather resolved within the church structures. Indeed the church needs to be exemplary by preaching love, peace and reconciliation.

The fact that the CCAP of the Livingstonia Synod is failing to resolve internal issues outside court is a clear testimony that it is not preaching love, peace, tolerance and reconciliation. I can add that the Synod falls short of transparency, fairness and does not act in good faith. Others have suggested that the church practices nepotism while others have gone to the extreme to suggest that the church is rotten and is being run by militants and dictators. All this, whether out of mudslinging or not, is coming because the church has not lived to the expectation of its followers who dearly need their guidance as they seek the Kingdom of Heaven through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The issue at Kanengo CCAP Congregation goes beyond that of land or who owns the church. It is well known that the Genesis of the whole saga started with the transfer of Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango. I agree with the learned Judge that Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango should have fully recognized that the transfer was duly sanctioned by his superiors and in any case he should have obeyed. Much as I agree, I also have serious reservations. My view is that any transfer should be made in good faith and not to be used a weapon to demonize, frustrate or victimize any individual whether is in or outside the church. No wonder these days we have seen even senior civil servants defying unjustifiable transfers. The question therefore is; was the transfer of Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango to Ekwendeni fair and justifiable? Yes the Synod wanted to put his talent in music to better use.

Following the posting to Ekwendeni, some of members of the Kanengo CCAP thought it was premature to let the pastor go and therefore approached the synod to consider rescinding this decision. They advanced the reason that the Synod entered into an agreement with the Kanengo CCAP that Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango would remain at Kanengo till March 2016, which in Tumbuka is referred to as “Kukwatiska”. The “Kukwatitsa” agreement is not legally binding as such the Synod has the prerogative to overturn this arrangement at any time deemed necessary. Much as the onus rests with the Synod to return or terminate the “Kukwatitsa” agreement, it does not preclude the followers from bringing forward their requests or indeed voice their desire in the event they feel they still need the services of a particular Pastor. There is precedence to this effect. For example, at the Lilongwe CCAP of Synod of Livingstonia, where most of the bourgeoisies or rich members of the Synod, who are believed to be the major financiers of the Livingstonia Synod in Lilongwe, go to worship the Almighty, at some point requested the Synod of Livingstonia to consider extending the tenure of office of their Minister and the Synod accepted. Now the question is “Are Members of Kanengo CCAP looked down upon by the Synod (or considered non entities in society by the Synod)? or the Synod urgently required the services of Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango? The answer is simple. The Synod did not urgently need the services of Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango to teach Music at Ekwendeni. This is true because the same Synod changed and reassigned Rev. Mhango to the remote area of Euthini. It is inconceivable that Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango was reassigned to Euthini to teach Music. This action therefore suggests that the transfer of Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango to Ekwendeni let alone Euthini was not in good faith. This fueled the anger of Members of the Kanengo CCAP Synod of Livingstonia who today are referred to as a breakaway group.

Aren’t the so called breakaway still members of the CCAP Synod of Livingstonia as they still use the Synod’s symbols and uniform? The truth is that they were angry with the conduct of the Synod, hence the ultimatum to breakaway. The hope was that the Synod would consider their request in a sober manner, taking into account that no church can afford to lose membership due to a reason that can easily be reversed. To them, what they were demanding from the Synod was simple and straight forward especially that there was a precedence set. However, for the reasons best known to the Synod, they went even to the extreme of expelling their Pastor of more than twenty years. Perhaps the Synod has other reasons to warrant an expulsion which they do not want to share with the followers. Of course, refusing a transfer is insubordination but certainly not warranting expulsion. This could have been resolved without much burden, unlike cases involving committing murder, committing adultery, stealing or drunkenness. As long as the real reasons for the dismissal are not well explained, the members that oppose the transfer of Rev Chimwemwe Mhango will always sympathize with him and will certainly remain disgruntled even when another Pastor takes over. In fact the successor who is already at Kanengo is seen by many as a hypocrite and traitor who is ready to crucify a fellow cleric because he wants a position.

The Synod must understand that most people did not choose to join CCAP of the Livingstonia Synod but by birth they are members of this church. In this regard, the Synod should respect the people who worship in church other than respecting the structures and material things. It is acknowledged that ownership of the church is vested in the Trustees. Actually, the Trustees are persons that hold or administer property or assets or position of trust for the benefit of another and do not gain income. With this definition in mind, it is understood that the property at Kanengo CCAP Synod of Livingstonia is registered under Trustees on behalf of the followers (owners of the church). This view takes cognizance of the fact that there can never be a church without followers. The church without people is not a church. In fact, Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango has more followers belonging to the CCAP Synod of Livingstonia than those that claim ownership of the church (TTC breakaway). Those that doubt can do their independent research or headcount.

Lastly, at Kanengo there are two camps; one that wants Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango to stay and the other that wants him to be removed. Those that favour the removal of Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango include those that occupied leadership positions in the old Executive under the same Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango. It is not a secret that those that held positions such as Session Clerk, Deputy Session Clerk and the Treasurer are some of the people in the forefront against Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango. The issue is crystal clear that it is about Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango and the Leadership of the Synod on one hand and the former Executive of the Church on the other. The former Executive Committee just like Synod Leadership has chosen to be economical with information to share with the congregation why they are against Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango. Unless, more information is provided, the Synod has very weak basis of dismissing their Pastor of more than twenty years on the grounds advanced so far. This is just bringing confusion in the church. One can imagine what Jesus Christ, the Lord of Church would say if the Leadership of Livingstonia Synod approached Him on this case. Obviously, the message of peace love and reconciliation would reign.

In conclusion, Judge Mkandawire will be remembered for schooling the Leadership of the Livingstonia Synod that church matters should not be taken to court but rather be resolved within the church structures. The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Livingstonia Synod should therefore know that it did not win a case against break-a-way faction of the Kanengo CCAP congregation. In fact, what the Livingstonia Synod of CCAP did was to take itself (Its own followers) to court to wash the dirty linen in public and later celebrate that it has won a case against itself. There is no rebellious faction but divided opinion in a domestic or in-house affair that should be resolved by the church structure. As said earlier on, the ancestors of most of the followers decided for them to be CCAP of the Synod of Livingstonia and no one has the authority to decide that they should either leave or remain members of the CCAP of the Livingstonia Synod, unless they commit offences, which are against Christian doctrines.

As for Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango, he should thank God that most people are demanding that he should stay while elsewhere Pastors have been chased by the followers. Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango should, however, also know that he has more enemies than friends. Most people say that he is arrogant and therefore deserves punishment from superiors. They say that he has a habit of resisting transfers. Apart these reasons, no real issue has been shared to warrant the treatment he is going through. Unless new information is shared, Rev Chimwemwe Mhango deserves to be unconditionally reinstated as Pastor. This is what the so called breakaway of Kanengo CCAP Congregation wants and are willing to reconcile with those that willingly left the church and opted to worship elsewhere outside the church. If the Synod wishes, let there be another congregation under another pastor. It is possible to have two congregations at Kanengo. Wouldn’t that be part of growing the church in the Nkhoma Synod territory after all?

The Livingstonia Synod should know that the era of the “Great Man” where leaders made decision without being questioned is no longer valid. We are in the period that encourages transformational, situational and charismatic leadership. We are in the period that respects participatory democracy whereby the followers expect to be consulted and respected. Leadership of the Synod should therefore seriously revisit their leadership style.

As for Justice Mkandawire, we thank him for providing sound advice to the leadership of the CCAP Synod of Livingstonia. We agree that they need to preach peace, justice, love, tolerance, forgiveness and reconciliation. Those on the side of Rev. Chimwemwe Mhango welcome the proposal for negotiations through the CCAP General Synod and being lay people in law, we believe the issue is still on the negotiating table and the Synod has not yet won a case against itself.

There are certain issues that are difficult to prove in the court of law. For example, can we prove whether or not the decisions by our Men in White Collar in both camps are inspired by the Holy Spirit or the devil is at the center of the whole saga? Your answer is as good as mine. Justice Mkandawire therefore has a very good point; church matters should be resolved using church structures.

Bravo Justice Charles Ching’anya Mkandawire

This Synod is always fighting

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 08:29:00 +0000

It seems it is always fighting. If not fighting government, it is raising issues with an NGO. If it is not criticizing a State President over qouta system, it is fighting over some land or property. It cannot stand homosexuality so it fights with its mother in some European country. If it is not fighting another synod over territorial boundary, it is questioning why a ruling political party is myopic. If it is not fighting its own minister, it is busy wondering why a cabinet is full of people from a certain tribe.

If it's not fighting a certain tribal grouping within its jurisdiction so that it gets the space to plant the mission, it is questioning why some polygamists and drunkards are elders. If it is not speaking for people over issues that government has to address, it is demanding that government recognizes its university.

It appears it inherited the fighting spirit from Ngoni Warriors. I like its fighting spirit. Unfortunately the fights become uglier as now they are amplified by the media and its more enlightened members who say enough is enough and can't keep sweeping the dust under the carpet.

This Synod is always fighting. Yes fighting evil within and without its ranks. Its stakes are high. It has lots of things to fight for and against. It also has to fight for its image and credibility. Most importantly it has to fight for its Godly testimony. This Synod is always fighting. At least it seems it is not fighting God!

Our Hypocrisy with Language

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Mon, 02 Nov 2015 14:00:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, I wrote these words on my Facebook page: “I long for a Service of Worship in Chitumbuka in Lilongwe City.” Amongst the reactions, what one person wrote stood out: “Any special contribution to mankind salvation? Mwina ndatsalira (May be I am left behind).”

Drums have own language to which we connect

As I thought over this, I felt the pain of being misunderstood on my longing. I realized how our tribal and political overtones make us forget our identities subsequently making us even judgmental.

Church services in English language are held in addition to the regular ones in Chichewa and Chitumbuka among others. The trend has been growing from the late 80’s. Even in a Capital City, Lilongwe, there were no services in English before around 1983. I remember attending the first English service in Rumphi in 1990! Malawians used their “natural” languages for services. The songs of worship too were in those languages.

What I have always found fascinating and surprising is that even when someone has does not understand English, they choose to attend the services. They can benefit more in a service in their natural language but they seem to associate English with progress, modernity and anointing. What makes matters worse is when even the officiating persons struggle in communicating in English to a group of Malawians who can fully understand other languages other than English.

There is something about South Africa that I like. Being rainbow nation, there is acceptance and pride of their natural languages. They are so proud of it that as a Malawian I even feel offended. Their pride and commitment to their languages is evident through the art and all manner of communication including songs and worship. As Malawi receives some of their media feeds, you notice lots of productions in their local languages.

The TV shows that Malawi is able to access equally show their programmes in their natural languages. Of course at one time I thought it is their failure to use English language that makes them settle for their local languages. But I have come to learn that they are proud of their heritage and utilize it when necessary. Not so with Malawi.

Today, most urban areas use English for church services, meetings, and other communication. Even when people have formed the so called tribal groupings like Mulhako wa Alomwe, Chewa Heritage, The Ngoni, The Chitumbuka Forum, Friends of Chitipa, etc., you wonder why such cannot use their natural languages. One would have expected more freedom in these groupings for patrons to use their mother tongues. But ah! They communicate in English. The political groupings too end up avoid any talk of use of local language so they settle for English yet they fully know that the best way to communicate to the masses is through their natural languages.

Using one’s natural language gives you a certain freedom to connect with oneself and others in the same medium in a manner that cannot be achieved otherwise. Those who grew up using their mother tongues will always by default want to connect in that tongue. God accepts worship from wherever we are through the art he created. Unfortunately if anyone emphasizes use of one’s natural language, people start labelling him or her as tribalistic. Such attitudes are so strong that those who want promote their natural languages even feel embarrassed to speak in their mother tongues in any public space. Our media have not adequately embraced and encouraged natural languages yet their audiences and viewers long for them. There is huge disconnect.

I like the way institutions like the Bible Society of Malawi, the three Synods of the CCAP and the Roman Catholic Church have encouraged use of the Malawi languages. Unfortunately their efforts seem to be not yielding much now in an environment where almost every form of communication thinks English language is the way to go. The people in the United Kingdom must be very happy to have colonized us this way!

Many countries are busy promoting and protecting their cultures and languages. Some countries are so small yet still bonded to their national language even when their population is dwindling. Haven’t Malawians been forced to learn their language as a condition to study in their countries and get the scholarships? And these countries have no apology about it.

There is space for English as a language in Malawi. And I like it. But the Malawians should feel arrested to utilize their natural languages because very soon most of our local languages will disappear even though the group’s names might say something about the language. It is us who will be losers as we cannot connect with ourselves and our Creator.

This post also appeared in Sunday Times of 1st November 2015 on the Cultural Page.

Why Churches Battle for Lilongwe

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Mon, 05 Oct 2015 10:50:00 +0000

The front of a Church in Seoul, South Korea.

Most of us did not know the implications of the move of the Parliament from Zomba to Lilongwe and the operational base of the state president from Blantyre’s Sanjika Palace to Lilongwe (from the days of Bingu). This eventually created positive pressure even for churches in Lilongwe.

Some of the churches and para-church organisations moved their headquarters to Lilongwe too. Gradually even business institutions moved their headquarters to Lilongwe. Later on, Lilongwe started seeing more media houses sprouting up.

Once upon a time, Zomba was called an educational town. I doubt if it still carries that status now that Lilongwe alone has more than ten universities in addition to many more nursery, primary and secondary schools.

What is happening in the physical realm may demand certain interpretations from the spiritual perspective. What are the spiritual implications of such positive developments?

There has been a visible increase in the number of church structures and places of worship in Lilongwe City over the last five to seven years. Their presence is felt in all residential and business areas. Of course I cannot state the the church density! On a rather sad note, there has been significant decrease in presence and influence of para-church organisations not only in Lilongwe but in the country as a whole. Most prominent para-church organisations have struggled financially and lost appeal to the churches hence their impact is not as it used to be fifteen plus years ago. These include Life Ministry of Malawi, Scripture Union of Malawi, SCOM, Evangelical Association of Malawi, New Life for All, African Evangelistic Enterprise, etc. Admittedly even Trans World Radio where I work has been affected by church-based media ministries.

The church structures being put up in Lilongwe City are telling a story. It is a story of affluence, quality, resolve and strategy. One spots well-designed church structures (most under construction) in Area 43, Area 49 and opposite Gulliver, Area 14, Area 47, Area 24, Area 36, Area 25, Kawale, Falls Estate, Area 50, 51, etc. They are multi-million investment structures. One can only imagine how these structures will look like once completed. They should be a great sight.

You see the commitment of the people supporting and working on such structures. The Church in Malawi is rising up to quality infrastructural development. I am so proud of churches that have built and are putting up quality structures for worship and kingdom building. I personally believe the Church should be the biggest property owner because that is linked to territorial dominion.

Lilongwe will see increase in number of sanctuaries of this type

Some of these are meant to be central places of worship while most probably serve specific residential areas. Some churches even limit their members to worship within their residential limits-a move that annoys some. Most of these new structures are much better in space, glamor and facilities than any of their original structures which were associated with the founding bishops, apostles, General Secretaries, etc.

If the congregations can manage to put up such nice structures in Lilongwe, their leaders are silently asking why they should continue operating from an old office built in the pre-independence and Kamuzu days out of Malawi’s Capital City? Lilongwe has an attraction for these leaders. Already they spend quite some time and are frequently in Lilongwe to lead worship at some of the key churches. You hardly hear they are visiting some rural areas! This is where I suspect that the headquarters for some of these churches are likely to move to Lilongwe City.

The City has all the conveniences, trappings and facilities-transport, communication, media presence, power-base (both political and otherwise), ease of administration, more qualified supportive personnel and most importantly the money to pay the senior church leadership. The city has the population to be reached by the church but also to sustain its work. Will the leaders resist the temptation of power, authority and influence which often attracts them to such places? Unfortunately at the rate things are going for a number of churches, it will be no surprise (and possible this should be viewed as good development) to hear the headquarters for … is moving to Lilongwe City.

Recently the Voice of Livingstonia of the Synod of Livingstonia started being heard in the Central and Southern Regions. I was personally very excited at this development because this is the first time on Malawi’s history when a radio based in the North sends a signal to the rest of the country. The North has always been a recipient. Bravo Voice of Livingstonia. May be this is one way of demystifying the prevailing thoughts and realities. Our children and grandchildren will grow up not caring about the limitedness that we grew up when it came to assigning Synods to the regions.

Will it be surprise even to hear Nkhoma University opening a college campus in Mzuzu and Blantyre? Aren’t we likely to see the University of Livingstonia opening a college campus in Lilongwe? Wouldn’t some Lilongwe-based professor want to lecture from his convenience in City other than moving up the Golodi bends to Khondowe for the Laws Campus building? I think the churches are becoming national. If that is true, they may be thinking of operating from a central point. The senior leaders will brush aside my observation! The “drama” is here for us to see as it unfolds.

What happened during My Appreciation Month?

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 04:44:00 +0000

I decided to use the entire month of August to appreciate certain people who inspire and impact me. This was to include most of those that had impacted me in the years gone whether they being alive or not.

To come with a list, it was both easy and challenging. Easy in the sense that there are many who directly impacted me and I know them and how they inspired and impacted-no doubt about it. Challenging because over the time, it was easy to forget many too. Yes it was not easy. So my good old diaries, albums and notes proved useful in recalling who and who. In addition, I asked my wife to tell me which people she knows to have impacted me. Of course her list was only limited to the people she has known me talk about since we got married. Otherwise and overall, it was not easy and I left out many not intentionally.

Early morning strolls made me recall my walks to School

I took a risk to say something about my life in public. A friend of mine told me last week that my profiles were revealing. To share something personal in public is certainly a risk as you have no idea what the people reading might use that information for. But hey, I risked for the greater good of appreciating the people in my life. Again they were those who I could not mention in public because of their status in this country. Mentioning them in public at this time is not wise.

I did not ask for permission from any of them except two. I had to ask for permission from the two for very personal family reasons. I did not post on FB about all who impacted me. Then there are those I had to contact by phone or sms for some good reasons.

The month was very inspiring to me. I thanked God and prayed for each of the persons that impacted me. In fact this was the first time I ever prayed (so passionately) for most of them. Yes tears flowed on a couple of prayer occasions for some. The exercise deepened my cause for prayer for them. The month was emotional. It gave me a unique moment to remember them before God for their impact on my life. At least for once, I had to remember and thank God for them.

I thanked God for those who had gone before us. The actual list was longer than published. Yeah the days leading to that last post were hard... Earlier, I had decided not to approach any their relatives to warn them about My Appreciation Month. My position was that you don't ask for permission to thank God for people that have inspired and impacted your life. So yes the posts may have been emotional to them too.

It was not easy to exclude family and relatives, colleagues, friends and direct current pastors. So I ended up mentioning a few of them. But I could not afford to say it all about everyone as I limited myself to 31 days of appreciation which was not adequate. Life is moving on and gratitude continues. May be the best is yet to come.

I had no idea how many people were and who was reading these profiles. Even up to now, I don't know but I must say I was greatly encouraged to know that some followed with interest. There were posts that attracted likes and comments. Then there were those that were literally quiet with few few few. Certain posts were tough to like or comment.

All in all, the month was about those who have produced me and not about me. I thank God for these lives. May God continue using you and raising up new ones. Thank you for blessing me.

My Appreciation Month

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 18:05:00 +0000

Day 7 of My Appreciation Month:

I had heard about and listened to them from the late 80's but it was only in 2001 when I first met them in person. Since then I have met them and interacted with them occasionally. They are a great inspiration to me through their devotion to God and passion for the things of God.

I thank God for Dada Pearson and Mama Anne Chunga for their inspiration to me. You have kept me encouraged to "hang on" in radio ministry-which I admit is very tough. Siyabonga kakhulu.

I had a unique privilege of a photo opportunity with them in 2011 in Blantyre.

Day 6 of My Appreciation Month:

I lived under their roof for almost a year and half in Zomba from 1998. But her impact on my life started way earlier in 1993. I thank God for Fulata L Moyo (PhD) through whom I have seen lessons on being real, being simple and being strong (in the Lord).

She is a mother, sister, "pastor" and a theologian who lives her Christian life. Thank you for impacting my life. Keep it up.

Note in the pic, Fulata testing a Thai head gear in Chiang Mai in Dec 2009.

Day 5-August 5 of My Appreciation Month:

One of the things that have "spoilt me" is my love for thorough Bible expository teaching/preaching. And since 1996, I have learnt lots through the Insight for Living-a radio Bible teaching ministry of Chuck Swindoll (correctly and officially Rev. Dr. Charles Swindoll). I have never met him but he has made the Bible alive in my understanding. I sincerely thank God for Chuck Swindoll. You deserve a medal in heaven.

Appreciation Day 4.

For the last 2 & half years, I have interacted closely and listened to him at least for 30 minutes each week. To a large extent, he has revolutionalized my understanding of business, leadership, politics, church and wealth. Thank you Mr. Henry Kachaje for your sacrifice and investment in me. While I have known you since 1994, the recent years have been and are more impactful. Keep hating mediocrity and pursuing excellence and patriotism.

Day 3 of My Appreciation Month.
He called us aside during that student conference and said something like, "Both of you are college material, there are certain changes along the way as you go on, such that the people you like now may not be the ones you will end up with... In any case this is too early for you."
I thank God for Mr. Bryer Mlowoka for those words on the sidelines of Mzuzu Government Secondary School in 1992. You enlightened me and encouraged me a lot. You made me learn to appreciate my sisters to this date. I thank God also for Mrs. Chimango Mlowoka for the hosting, encouragement and trust in me since 1989. God bless you and keep feeding this flock.

Day 2 August 2-of personal gratitude.
I thank God for Pastor Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera who in March 1990 was used by God to lead me to a confession of Christ as my personal Lord and Savior while in Form 1. He had travelled from Lilongwe and an improptu SCOM meeting was arranged by the SCOM's Senior Friend Chirowe Mkandawire that early evening at our school.

Fast forward, in April 2012, God used him again to dedicate me to God when I was officially starting my new leadership role at my place of work. Thank you abusa. Keep staying strong for integrity.

Note: This is my personal gratitude month-for all that have impacted my life in one way or the other. The list however excludes my immediate family and relatives, my direct pastors and colleagues.

August 1
Each day of this month of August, I recognize some people who have impacted my life in one way or another. I however exclude my family, immediate relatives, colleagues and my direct pastors. It is my personal appreciation month.

On 1st August I began with thanks to God for my Primary School teachers in particular Mr. Elton Mbiriyawaka Munthali who spoke words of great encouragement when I was struggling with school while in Standard 8 at Mphompha Primary School, Rumphi. He taught well and he was always proud of me.
It was great meeting him last year in April. His wife NyaMtete (May her soul rest in peace) taught me English in Standard 4 and she was the first teacher to speak highly about my English. Those humble beginnings produced your son who can now post even on Face book. I thank God for you.

It was difficult to avoid James Nyondo

noreply@blogger.com (ndagha) — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 21:34:00 +0000

Within 2 weeks of first hearing about him in February, 2009, I traced him and he agreed to be interviewed for TWR's Exclusive Our Guest Programme. He announced his candidature on the presidency and to do so without a party. He brought a new debate to the elections that time as he competed against 6 other candidates.

For some reason, he started calling me "mwanavuli Victor" (the man) whatever that meant to him. Due to my work and many other factors, I wanted to keep as much distance as possible from him. But the more I tried, the more he seemed to still manage to locate me.

One time he gave me a book Three Secular Reasons why America should be Under God written by William J. Federer but dedicated to him. I should admit I started taking him more seriously when I got that book. Around April 2009 when he was threatened by arrests, he called me simply to share the news and possibly needing some encouragement. During the entire election period, he remained calm but confident.

By January 2014 in preparation for the May 20 Tripartite Elections, he had National Salvation Front (NASAF). Now he was not ready to run as an independent candidate-one with no party. He again tried his best to pull through the establishment of a party in the year or two earlier. The Presidential debates gave him a national platform to be seen and share his vision. No one that watched him could forget his views on Malawi's future.

He shared his dreams and plans of turning Chitipa Boma into a boundary city. I saw the plans and was impressed by the intention. So when he said he was to contest as an MP for Chitipa Central, I understood his heart. In 2009, he contested in Lilongwe and lost.

He was a very humble and human. He talked about his own weaknesses and strengths, shared some of the challenges in politics. Most of all he shared his frustrations at how the government was ran. I just listened. One time around 2012 he wanted to buy airtime on TWR so that he could be preaching God's Word. He said that he was a Child of God and as his servant, he needed to share with others the love of God.

He surprised us one time when he asked for directions to our house-simply to visit us. We were honoured to have someone who had stood as an independent presidential candidate in 2009 under our roof. This was to be for a few minutes as he was to travel to Mzuzu that day. We feared the unknown. Little did we know that here was someone who liked clean politics and treasured Christian friends who also followed electoral events.

I interviewed James a couple of times in light of his political, servant-hood and personal life. I am hoping someone will rise up to carry on the dreams of James Nyondo. I last interviewed on his birthday 14 May 2014. So far I can boldly say Malawians failed him because of regionalism and tribalism.

He was a family man. My heart especially goes out to Brenda and children including Mulisya. May God of all comfort be there for you.

He talked about his book titled Absolute Integrity: The Bridge to Destiny available on Amazon and other bookshops.

I will miss James not because he was the first presidential candidate from Fort Hill or because of his political philosophy, no. But because of his personality based on Christ. No wonder that party has the term Salvation! Yes I know your soul is resting in peace because you knew Christ.