The African Street Journal
East Africa · Capital Lilongwe

Malawi

5 briefs · updated 2026-08-21
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Politics · 2026-08-21

Malawi court to rule on Sylvester Namiwa bail

Judge Mzonde Mvula will deliver a ruling on the bail application for jailed rights activist Sylvester Namiwa at 10 a.m. today. The decision follows weeks of proceedings in a treason case.

Why it mattersThe ruling determines whether the activist will remain in detention or be released pending his trial.

Business · 2026-08-21

Escom warns of blackouts as generation shortfall hits 83MW

The national grid is facing a generation shortfall of 42MW, which increases to 83MW during evening peak hours. The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi reported that available capacity is currently 347MW.

Why it mattersThe deficit at the Nkula plant will lead to more frequent power outages for residential and business consumers.

Business · 2026-08-21

Malawi High Court releases K383m to Nema Farm Seeds

The High Court's Commercial Division lifted a preservation order on more than K383 million belonging to a local businessperson. The court ruled there were no grounds to suspect the funds were linked to criminal activity.

Why it mattersThe ruling allows Nema Farm Seeds to regain access to capital previously frozen by the Financial Intelligence Authority.

Business · 2026-08-21

Malawi to open gold buying centres in September

The government plans to establish legal gold markets in major mining areas starting in September. MAMICO CEO Leonard Kalindekafe estimated that more than US$700 million worth of gold leaves the country annually via smuggling.

Why it mattersThe new centers aim to reduce illegal smuggling and increase government revenue from the mining sector.

Sport · 2026-08-21

President Mutharika gives Scorchers players K5m each

President Peter Mutharika awarded K5 million to each player of the Scorchers national team. The reward follows the team's campaign at the Wafcon in Rabat, Morocco.

Why it mattersThe payment serves as a financial incentive for the athletes after they reached the final and qualified for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.