Malawi Roundup: Constitutional amendment, injectable HIV prevention drug, Starlink-powered rural connectivity

Parliament passes controversial CDF constitutional amendment

Malawi’s Parliament has approved Bill No. 2 of 2025, a constitutional amendment that embeds the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) into the supreme law without any changes. Out of 224 MPs, 199 voted in favour while 25 were absent, with no dissenting votes recorded. The amendment, introduced by Mzimba South MP Emmanuel Chambulanyina Jere, defines the purpose and management of the CDF and places it under the authority of Members of Parliament “as prescribed by an Act of Parliament.” A motion by Dedza Central MP Joshua Malango fast-tracked the vote, ending debate and limiting scrutiny. Critics warn that granting MPs constitutional control over the fund risks deepening patronage politics and weakening accountability. Supporters argue it ensures predictable development financing for constituencies. Parliament is now expected to draft accompanying legislation governing fund management and reporting.

Malawi becomes early adopter of injectable HIV prevention drug

Malawi has authorised the use of lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable HIV prevention drug, becoming the fourth African nation to approve the medicine. The Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority approved a 46-day expedited review. National AIDS Commission Executive Director Dr Beatrice Matanje described the approval as a major milestone in reducing new infections, noting that biannual injections ease the burden of adherence. PMRA Director General Mphatso Kawaye said the decision reflects efforts to accelerate access to life-saving innovations, supported by collaboration with the European Medicines Agency and the World Health Organisation. South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe have already approved the drug, with first consignments expected by year-end. Malawi continues to face high HIV prevalence, with an estimated 950,000 people living with the disease.

Preparations intensify for 2025 Africa Netball Cup

The Netball Association of Malawi has confirmed that preparations are well underway to host the 2025 Africa Netball Cup from December 8–14 at the Griffin Saenda Sports Complex in Lilongwe. Nine national teams—Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Namibia and Eswatini—will compete for the continental title. The Local Organising Committee is finalising upgrades to courts, training facilities and logistics ahead of the event. LOC chairperson Limbani Matola said hosting the tournament is an opportunity to showcase Malawi’s sporting talent and inspire young players. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting both women’s and men’s netball as Africa Netball continues its campaign for the sport’s inclusion in future Olympic Games.

Rural connectivity expands through Starlink-powered project

Fast Networks Malawi has delivered a major rural connectivity project using Starlink technology to provide affordable internet access in underserved areas. Over six months, the organisation and its partners—including the Internet Society, Unconnected.org, World Mobile, 48.org, the Ministry of Education, Xulendo and Inethi South Africa—developed a mesh network extending connectivity far beyond each Starlink terminal’s range. The project connected 67 schools and established 20 rural WiFi hotspots, enabling clinics, trading centres and additional schools to access online resources. Low-cost community vouchers help subsidise Starlink subscriptions for schools, supporting long-term sustainability. Co-founder Barros Atupele Mweso said communities previously without internet access are now digitally engaged, though challenges remain, including device shortages, low digital literacy and maintenance costs.

New $100 million cement plant inaugurated 

Malawi has commissioned a $100 million Portland Cement Manufacturing Plant in Balaka, a township in Southern Malawi, hailed as a catalyst for economic transformation. Finance Minister Joseph Mwanamveka presided over the commissioning, calling it a testament to Malawi’s commitment to strengthening its manufacturing base and boosting foreign exchange reserves. The project aligns with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which prioritises manufacturing-led growth and job creation. Mwanamveka said the plant represents resilience in overcoming long-standing challenges in the manufacturing sector and reaffirmed government support for both local and foreign investors contributing to national development.