The Catholic Development Commission (CADECOM) has called for a sustainable and comprehensive response to Malawi’s escalating hunger crisis, which has left millions in dire need of food and basic resources.

The call was made through a statement released on 18^th September, 2024 CADECOM’s National Office in Lilongwe. according to the statement, a report by the Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC) released in July 2024 indicates that 4.2 million Malawians currently face acute food insecurity, with projections indicating that the figure could rise to 5.7 million during the lean period of October 2024 and March 2025.

The hunger crisis in Malawi has been exacerbated by natural disasters, including Tropical Cyclone Freddy, ANA, Gombe and Idai which destroyed vast tracts of farmland and livestock. Recurrent flooding and droughts also worsened the situation by severely affecting agricultural productivity and inflating food prices, pushing vulnerable communities into extreme poverty.

CADECOM laments that the government’s policies in response to the disasters have been disjointed, particularly in handling the El Niño weather phenomenon.

“For example, the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services forecasted El-nino weather phenomenon way before the rainy season particularly in the Southern region of Malawi. Yet, the same Government proceeded to distribute maize seed and fertilizers for maize production instead of distributing seeds for drought tolerant crops like sorghum, millet, cowpeas and sweet potatoes. These kinds of mismatch decisions also exacerbate the status quo and have in this case contributed to the current food crisis in the country.” Reads part of the statement

While emergency responses, such as food distributions, cash vouchers, nutritional support programs, especially for children under five, and efforts to stabilize food prices are underway in some parts of the country, CADECOM emphasizes that these short-term measures are insufficient hence the call for deeper, long-term solutions which will address the root causes of food insecurity in Malawi.

The commission therefore, urges the government, development partners, and the international community to invest in resilient agricultural practices, water management systems, support for smallholder farmers and enhanced social safety nets and economic opportunities to build a more food-secure Malawi.

CADECOM has further encouraged the Catholic community and the general public to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, support local resource mobilization efforts, and share resources with those in need, underscoring the importance of solidarity and shared responsibility in overcoming the crisis.

On Sunday, July 14th, 2024, the Young Christian Workers (YCW) of Maula Denary in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe welcomed 39 new members during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at St. Patrick’s Parish. The ceremony was presided over by Rev. Fr. John Kessy, MAfr, the Archdiocesan Youth Chaplain, who delivered an inspiring message to the YCW community.

A Call to Be the Light

In his homily, Fr. Kessy urged the new members and the existing YCW community to embody the motto “See, Judge, and Act” by viewing the world through a spiritual lens. “You will face challenges, but be strong in faith, do not be afraid, be true disciples of Jesus Christ and courageous ambassadors of the Church,” he encouraged. His words resonated deeply, emphasizing the importance of being a light in the world and standing firm in faith despite adversities.

A Diverse and Committed Group

The archdiocesan YCW president, John Namalenga Jnr, highlighted the diversity and commitment of the group, which includes both single and married individuals aged between 18 and 40. The new members hail from several parishes, including St. Francis, St. Patrick’s, St. Andrea Kaggwa, St. Anthony of Padua, St. Denis (Chinsapo), St. Matthias, St. Mark, and Padre Pio.

About Young Christian Workers (YCW)

The Young Christian Workers (YCW) is an international Catholic youth movement dedicated to recognizing the dignity and worth of each young person. It empowers its members to challenge social exclusion and take proactive steps to bring about positive change in their homes, workplaces, and social environments. By fostering a sense of community and shared purpose, YCW nurtures young individuals to become leaders who drive meaningful social transformation.

The enrollment of 39 new members into the YCW is a testament to the vibrant and growing Catholic youth community in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe. As these young Christians embark on their journey, they are called to be steadfast in their faith and proactive in their mission to illuminate the world with the light of Christ.

In a remarkable gathering that underscores the unity and collaborative spirit of the Catholic Church in Southern Africa, His Excellency the Most Rev. Gian Luca Perici, Apostolic Nuncio to Malawi and Zambia, is among the distinguished delegates attending the sub-regional conference of bishops from Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This significant event is currently taking place at the Inspector General’s ground in Area 30, Lilongwe.

The conference marks a pivotal moment for the Catholic communities in these three countries, bringing together church leaders to discuss pressing issues, share insights, and forge a common path forward. The presence of the Apostolic Nuncio, the Pope’s representative in the region, highlights the importance of this assembly and reaffirms the Vatican’s commitment to supporting the Church’s mission in Africa.

The opening ceremony, filled with prayer, song, and a spirit of fellowship, is being led by Archbishop George Desmond Tambala, President of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi. As the main celebrant, Archbishop Tambala set a tone of reflection and unity, calling on the bishops to work together in addressing the challenges faced by their congregations and communities.

In his opening remarks, Archbishop Tambala emphasized the importance of solidarity among the Church leaders, noting, “Our gathering here is a testament to our shared faith and our commitment to serving our people with humility and love. Let us use this time to listen, learn, and support one another as we strive to bring hope and healing to our nations.”

The conference agenda includes a series of discussions on pastoral care, social justice, and the role of the Church in fostering peace and development. Special attention will be given to the Church’s response to issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare, which are critical concerns for the region.

Rev. Gian Luca Perici, in his address, expressed his admiration for the bishops’ dedication and the resilience of the Catholic communities they serve. “The Church in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe stands as a beacon of hope in challenging times. Your efforts to bring the light of Christ to every corner of your nations are truly inspiring,” he said.

As the conference progresses, the bishops will engage in workshops and plenary sessions aimed at developing concrete strategies to enhance their pastoral work and community outreach. There is a shared understanding that the outcomes of this conference will have a profound impact on the future direction of the Church in the sub-region.

The sub-regional conference of bishops is not just an event; it is a celebration of faith, a reaffirmation of commitment, and a beacon of hope for the Catholic Church in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. As the delegates gather in Lilongwe, they carry with them the prayers and aspirations of millions of faithful, united in their mission to build a more just and compassionate world.

FRIENDS OF CHIKWAWA DIOCESE INSPIRE MAJOR SEMINARIANS

Seminarians from the diocese of Chikwawa at St Anthony (Kachebere) Major Seminary were on June 8 over the moon when Friends of Chikwawa Diocese, Lilongwe Chapter, paid them a visit as part of inspiring them in their priestly formation and training.

The group which was led by Very Reverend Fr Valerian Mtseka the Patron of the group who is also Episcopal Conference of Malawi ECM Secretary General besides verbal encouragement, provided assorted items to the six Seminarians including a laptop for each, writing materials and cash.

“It was a promise we made few years ago when we visited them and this was fulfilment of that promise. They requested for computers (laptops) as one of their needs”, highlighted Fr. Mtseka when asked the purpose of their visit.

Loyd Luciano, a second year Seminarian from Nkhate (Holy Spirit) parish in the diocese of Chikwawa expressed joy with the visit by friends from his diocese saying the presents they had brought with them, particularly the laptops, will ease some challenges affecting their academic work. “We are very glad to have the parents around and their presence meant a lot to us. In addition, we very much appreciate the gifts they have given us, this is a big boost to our priesthood journey”, he said.

Seminarians to the diocesan priesthood in Malawi undergo nine years of formation as they discern their vocation to priesthood.

They spend a year at either Kasina Spiritual formation in Dedza or St. Patrick’s in Rumphi before proceeding to St. Anthony’s (Kachebere) Major Seminary for rigorous Philosophy and other social disciplines for three years before proceeding to St. Peter’s Major Seminary in Zomba for theological studies which covers four years. In between the time at the St. Peter’s Major Seminary, they spend a year in parishes and institutions for pastoral experience in their respective dioceses.

Kachebere Major Seminary has currently 92 seminarians from all the dioceses in the country out of which six are from the diocese of Chikwawa.