Current Events in Malawi

Current Events in Malawi

Churches creating HIV/AIDS manual

The Malawi Council of Churches (MCC) has begun creating manuals that teach about HIV and AIDS awareness.  In the past, the church frequently discriminated against those with HIV and AIDS, often calling those infected “adulterous.”  This negative stigma is now being addressed by the OneBody program, who are researching “Malawian cultural and spiritual context” in order to create a training manual and guide on HIV and AIDS.  Once finished, the manual will be distributed by eleven countries across the world.  MCC’s general secretary, Rev. Dr. Joda-Mbewe expressed that “[i]f as the church we do not break the silence and yet our people are infected and affected, it will mean that we are condemning ourselves to the scourge. We should look at the HIV and AIDS pandemic which now seems not to take centre stage in daily issues, and yet it is killing more people, so that we serve humanity.”

Source: http://www.nyasatimes.com/malawi/2012/10/12/malawi-churches-developing-hiv-and-aids-manual/

Joyce Banda attracts investors at Dubai World Energy Forum

On Monday, Malawian President Joyce Banda traveled to Dubai to attend the World Energy Forum (WEF).  During her speech to the WEF, Banda exclaimed that Malawi is “open for business” and ready for its transformation into a green environment.  In order for Malawi to become a green environment, Banda as expressed the desire to create sustainable development, specifically through renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, thermal, and geothermal resources.  In order for these projects to commence, Malawi needs financial support from private investors.  Talking to the WEF and potential funders, Banda stated, “our need for sustainable energy is the fuel for our aspirations, and we are ready to seize the opportunities here for partnership and collaboration.”

Source: http://www.nyasatimes.com/malawi/2012/10/22/malawi-open-for-business-jb-makes-her-case-at-dubai-world-energy-forum/