MP Warns Against Interference with Youths and Women Loans in Chikwawa South Constituency

CHIKWAWA, Malawi-Political and traditional leaders in Chikwawa South constituency have been warned against interfering with youth and women's loans, as the law will take its course once reported, writes Cornelius Lupenga.

Member of Parliament for Chikwawa South, Illias Karim, issued the warning on Wednesday at Nkhwangwa Primary School during the launch of the youth and women's loans.

The government, through Parliament, authorized the allocation of ten percent of the Constituency Development Fund-CDF for loans for youths and women across the country.

Karim emphasized that transparency, accountability, and depoliticization are essential for the success of the loan program.

"I will not tolerate any traditional leader interfering with the youth loan program in my area," he stated.

The MP added that only those who deserve to benefit, regardless of their political affiliation, tribe, or religion, must benefit.

He warned that anyone involved in interfering with the youth and women loan beneficiaries would face legal action.

During the launch, Senior Group Village Headman Konzere urged the youth clubs to use the money for its intended purpose and refrain from engaging in immoral behaviours.

He reminded the youths that the loans are revolving and must be repaid to benefit others.

A beneficiary, Tinna Magawa, hailed the initiative, which she said would empower youths and women economically.

Magawa, who is also the Chair of Tikondane Youth Club, promised to repay the loan promptly to create chances for others. On the day, ten youth clubs received one million Kwacha (K1,000,000) each.

Each club comprised twenty members drawn from Traditional Authorities Masache, Ngabu, and Ngowe in Chikwawa.