On my way home from Limbe Bus station, I stopped by to sample some fruits. I came across Avocado pears and I thought I should take a look at them, well u know what that means touching them as well. I asked the woman how much they cost and she said MK80.00 each. So I told her I will buy her tomorrow, because I did not like the quality anyway, it was a polite way of declining to buy. Instead what I got was a harsh statement. “Koma zondisuntha zimenezo, tsopano mungangogwiragwira osagula, mutu wanu umagwira ,mukaziwa komwe zachoka zinthuzi….she went on and on . “ I am very sorry maam”, I said. she did not take my word until her fellow women came to my rescue . “Asiyeni apepesa”.
I was so deeply hurt and from that moment on I decided I am not going to buy anything from that place again. I used to buy the women some strawberries and bananas from the women.
I understand why that woman treated me thus. She wanted to make me buy her Avocado pears regardless the poor quality. She cannot be singled out, there are some business people who also expect us to take their goods, even if after purchasing it you have noted a dent, or fault. They do not have the welfare of customers at heart all they want is to make sales basi. There are some however who understand and tell you that you can return the item within 24 hours.
If only that woman and other entrepreneurs knew that good customer care also contributes to increase in sales and makes the business grow as well.
I forgive her, because I understand we all have different wounds: Unemployment, HIV fears of an uncertain future, marital problems eish…. the list is endless.
So next time don’t do what I did, we learn from mistakes every day though I learnt the hard way. I still have an infinite number of years ahead of me with many more lessons to learn.
Sep 11, 2008
Aug 13, 2008
On Mandatory testing of expectant women
A recent statement made by the Principal Secretary for Nutrition ,HIV and AIDS in the office of the President and Cabinet, Dr Mary Shawa that government policy is that people should go for voluntary counselling and should not be forced baffles me .
The statement was made in reaction to reports from Machinga, where a traditional leader and some people are accusing health workers of forcing expectant women and their husbands to be tested for HIV as a precondition for accessing maternal services at health centres.
Well the Machinga issue is not isolated, there has also been an outcry from one the communities we work with in T.A Malengachanzi, Nkhotakota, where expectant women were worried that they are being forced to get tested and as a result some women shun the hospital and health centre and instead go to Traditional Birth Attendants.
Maybe it is the way the HIV and AIDS Counsellors handle the clients that makes them feel they are being forced. Do we have people from the District Health Office who monitors the conduct of the HIV/AIDS counsellors? Because as Dr Shawa put it that it is an anomaly, then I see that there are gaps in monitoring the HIV counselling and testing services,
There are three types of testing namely: 1.Voluntary Counselling and Testing 2.Diagnostic Testing 3. Routine Testing.
Under Voluntary Counselling and Testing government undertakes to do the following
• Ensure that VCT shall only be carried out with informed consent of the person seeking testing who is prepared with adequate information about the nature of the HIV test, including the potential implications of a positive or a negative result in order to make an informed decision as to take the test or not.
• However a certain woman who went to Malosa Hospital, sad as for her she was not properly counselled, the counselling was done in a group. She said the health worker seemed to be in a hurry.
During a panel discussion organised by Story Workshop, Dr Kelita Kamoto said, as a country we are moving from voluntary counselling and testing to Provider Initiative Counselling and Testing where by it is the responsibility of the Doctor or health worker to do offer the HIV test to the client, however with the right for the patient to opt out.
Dr Kamoto says Malawi has not yet reached the mandatory testing stage yet. Because the patient has a right to decline to the HIV test. But she does not agree with people’s view that it is a violation of the right to freedom and choice for expectant mothers. She said rights should go with responsibilities; their intention is not violate the mother right but to protect the unborn child, if we want an HIV free nation.
Under Routine testing, the National HIV AIDS Policy statement 3.2.2.3.2 states Government shall undertake to do the following:
• Permit HIV Testing without consent in the following circumstances
Sample screening of pregnant women through anonymous unlinked testing for surveillance
• Ensure that HIV testing is routinely offered to all pregnant women attending antenatal clinics unless they decline.
However when I interviewed some pregnant women at Kamuzu Central Hospital, they all claimed that they had little or no choice.
On couple counselling
If the health workers at Ngokwe Health Centre are forcing the pregnant women and their spouses as a pre condition for access to the health services, then it is so sad and it’s uncalled for. Such things happen at post natal clinics in the rural areas when a mother forgets her child’s health passport book. She cannot have access to the services at that health centre.
It is however a good intention by the government to promote and encourage couple counselling and partner disclosure of HIV test results, so men should not be worried when they are told to come along with their expectant wives to antenatal clinics remember we are one body .
I think it is good to get the counselling and results together. I have heard that there are some men who will not go for HCT but will depend on the results of their wives after testing. If for example she tests negative they will celebrate and if she tests positive then you and I know the consequences, only those who have true love for their spouse will carry on their normal lives.
In a nutshell I would want the government to clarify to us on this issue. What’s your comment on this issue?
Listen to Tiombenkota every Thursday at Half past six in the evening (06:30 PM) on MBC Radio 1.
Tiombenkota aims to address HIV and AIDS issues with policymakers, civil society organisations and medical experts. The panellists commit themselves to do action on the problems raised from a community generated programme called Tigwirane Manja which is broadcast every Saturday at half past three in the afternoon.(15:00 hours on MBC Radio 1.
The statement was made in reaction to reports from Machinga, where a traditional leader and some people are accusing health workers of forcing expectant women and their husbands to be tested for HIV as a precondition for accessing maternal services at health centres.
Well the Machinga issue is not isolated, there has also been an outcry from one the communities we work with in T.A Malengachanzi, Nkhotakota, where expectant women were worried that they are being forced to get tested and as a result some women shun the hospital and health centre and instead go to Traditional Birth Attendants.
Maybe it is the way the HIV and AIDS Counsellors handle the clients that makes them feel they are being forced. Do we have people from the District Health Office who monitors the conduct of the HIV/AIDS counsellors? Because as Dr Shawa put it that it is an anomaly, then I see that there are gaps in monitoring the HIV counselling and testing services,
There are three types of testing namely: 1.Voluntary Counselling and Testing 2.Diagnostic Testing 3. Routine Testing.
Under Voluntary Counselling and Testing government undertakes to do the following
• Ensure that VCT shall only be carried out with informed consent of the person seeking testing who is prepared with adequate information about the nature of the HIV test, including the potential implications of a positive or a negative result in order to make an informed decision as to take the test or not.
• However a certain woman who went to Malosa Hospital, sad as for her she was not properly counselled, the counselling was done in a group. She said the health worker seemed to be in a hurry.
During a panel discussion organised by Story Workshop, Dr Kelita Kamoto said, as a country we are moving from voluntary counselling and testing to Provider Initiative Counselling and Testing where by it is the responsibility of the Doctor or health worker to do offer the HIV test to the client, however with the right for the patient to opt out.
Dr Kamoto says Malawi has not yet reached the mandatory testing stage yet. Because the patient has a right to decline to the HIV test. But she does not agree with people’s view that it is a violation of the right to freedom and choice for expectant mothers. She said rights should go with responsibilities; their intention is not violate the mother right but to protect the unborn child, if we want an HIV free nation.
Under Routine testing, the National HIV AIDS Policy statement 3.2.2.3.2 states Government shall undertake to do the following:
• Permit HIV Testing without consent in the following circumstances
Sample screening of pregnant women through anonymous unlinked testing for surveillance
• Ensure that HIV testing is routinely offered to all pregnant women attending antenatal clinics unless they decline.
However when I interviewed some pregnant women at Kamuzu Central Hospital, they all claimed that they had little or no choice.
On couple counselling
If the health workers at Ngokwe Health Centre are forcing the pregnant women and their spouses as a pre condition for access to the health services, then it is so sad and it’s uncalled for. Such things happen at post natal clinics in the rural areas when a mother forgets her child’s health passport book. She cannot have access to the services at that health centre.
It is however a good intention by the government to promote and encourage couple counselling and partner disclosure of HIV test results, so men should not be worried when they are told to come along with their expectant wives to antenatal clinics remember we are one body .
I think it is good to get the counselling and results together. I have heard that there are some men who will not go for HCT but will depend on the results of their wives after testing. If for example she tests negative they will celebrate and if she tests positive then you and I know the consequences, only those who have true love for their spouse will carry on their normal lives.
In a nutshell I would want the government to clarify to us on this issue. What’s your comment on this issue?
Listen to Tiombenkota every Thursday at Half past six in the evening (06:30 PM) on MBC Radio 1.
Tiombenkota aims to address HIV and AIDS issues with policymakers, civil society organisations and medical experts. The panellists commit themselves to do action on the problems raised from a community generated programme called Tigwirane Manja which is broadcast every Saturday at half past three in the afternoon.(15:00 hours on MBC Radio 1.
Aug 5, 2008
Male circumcision in HIV prevention information dissemination has to wait for 3 years
Malawi is one of the countries in the Southern Africa that is slow to act on the World Health Organisations recommendations of March 2007. WHO and UNAIDS gave green light for the use of male circumcision for HIV prevention, after study findings in Uganda, Kenya and South AFrica showed that it could reduce the risk of infection.
The Malawi government has yet to take its stand on circumcision.
The delay in coming in the open on circumcision according to one health expert, Dr Crissy Kaponda is that the government through Kamuzu College of Nursing and College of Medicine is doing research first in the districts where most initiation ceremonies take place to find out the potential impact. The research will take 3 years and right now they are in the second year of the study.
My worry now is not about the reseacrh but on the length of the study. There are some young people in Salima playing around with women, and even young girls, having unprotected sex. They tell girls and women that they cannot contract the virus.
Dr Kelita Kamoto, Head of HIV/AIDS Unit, said this whole idea of circumcision is only good for men what about women? She emphasizes that the men who are circumcized should also use a condom. Circumcision is not equal to no HIV. Dr Kaponda says some of the findinds so far in Mangochi, are that even the men who were circumcized are HIV postive so that just proves that circumcision is not an effective prevention measure.
So what about abale anga kumudziko omwe sakudziwa zeni zeni abadikirabe kuti research ya KCN ndi College of Medicine ithe? Does the government fear that people will be excited and mess with women?
Food for thought
The Malawi government has yet to take its stand on circumcision.
The delay in coming in the open on circumcision according to one health expert, Dr Crissy Kaponda is that the government through Kamuzu College of Nursing and College of Medicine is doing research first in the districts where most initiation ceremonies take place to find out the potential impact. The research will take 3 years and right now they are in the second year of the study.
My worry now is not about the reseacrh but on the length of the study. There are some young people in Salima playing around with women, and even young girls, having unprotected sex. They tell girls and women that they cannot contract the virus.
Dr Kelita Kamoto, Head of HIV/AIDS Unit, said this whole idea of circumcision is only good for men what about women? She emphasizes that the men who are circumcized should also use a condom. Circumcision is not equal to no HIV. Dr Kaponda says some of the findinds so far in Mangochi, are that even the men who were circumcized are HIV postive so that just proves that circumcision is not an effective prevention measure.
So what about abale anga kumudziko omwe sakudziwa zeni zeni abadikirabe kuti research ya KCN ndi College of Medicine ithe? Does the government fear that people will be excited and mess with women?
Food for thought
Jun 18, 2008
Everyone has a story to tell,it just takes the courage to share
Bhatupe So As I promised last time that I am going to tell you about a ladt that moved my heart so tada:
1. What is your name in full?
My name is Bhatupe Mhango. Bhatupe is a Nkhonde name and originally spelt as ``watupe``
2. When and where you born and raised up as a child
I was born in Lilongwe at Kamuzu Central hospital around 5 a.m. on 5th April, 1980. I was raised up in Lilongwe, in Area 3 until the age of 6. Between ages 6 and 17 I was raised up in other countries in southern Africa where my mother worked in the Malawian diplomatic service.
3. Where did you do your primary, secondary, tertiary education?
I started my primary school (till standard 29 at Chimutu FP School in Area 18, Lilongwe. Thereafter I attended the International (British) School of Maputo, Mozambique till 5th Grade and then completed my grades 5 to 7 at the American Embassy School of Maputo.
I did my secondary school in three different schools-first starting out at Lake Road Trust High School, a private Zambian Secondary school and then moving on to the American Embassy School of Lusaka (AESL) where I went up to 10th grade (or form 3). I completed my secondary school at the Lilongwe Private School in Malawi and attained the International General School Certificate of Education. Following this, I was one of only 3 Malawians in this class at Lilongwe Private that moved to University Education in Malawi (Most were of Asian descent and were able to move on to other International colleges or to begin family businesses).
4. What are you currently doing in the Geneva, Switzerland?
I currently work with UNAIDS, the Joint program on HIV and AIDS, as the UN Plus Global Coordinator. UN Plus is an advocacy initiative that brings together over 100 UN staff members from 37 countries and 25 different agencies and associated programs. We work towards policy change within the United Nations to enable it to best respond to the AIDS epidemic from a workplace point of view. In this regard, we are building the internal competencies of the UN to cope with the presence of HIV in the workplace. UN Plus has four main policy focal areas: (i) stigma and discrimination, (ii) confidentiality, (iii) travel and mobility issues and (iv) health insurance. Our work is supporting all of the concerned UN agencies to enforce and implement realistic and progressive workplace policies and initiatives to promote the GIPA (the Greater Involvement of People living with HIV and AIDS) principle. You may read more about our work on this site: www.unplus.org
5. Tell me in brief about your child hood and adulthood
I am one of those people that had one of the best childhoods ever! I grew up with a very educated and independent mother who allowed us freedom of thought and expression and home and enabled us to develop our artistic and academic interests. I was a tomboy (did not like girls) until the age of 13. I remember wanting to become ``a remarkable person when I grew up`` but not being sure exactly what career I wanted to pursue. That was until I met a friend of my mothers called Hawa Sinare, who was a lawyer. She worked with the PTA (preferential Trade Area). She had worked in Europe and owned a Mercedes Benz and had style. Last I heard she became a high court judge in Tanzania. So by the age of 13 I knew what I wanted to become- a lawyer- especially one for women- ``to defend the voiceless`` was my reason! I can say in my adulthood so far I have tried very much to meet the dreams of my childhood so far. I enrolled in law school but did not complete the degree program. Adulthood is an extension of one`s childhood, I think and if you enjoyed growing up as a child you can only enjoy more as an adult if you daily take steps to meet your goals.
6. When did you go for HIV testing?
I went for HIV testing in 2001 and again in 2002. I will always remember that both times it was at the same center-the Soche VCT Clinic.
7. What was your reaction after testing positive?
It was a mixture of feelings. I was partly in denial but partly determined to see myself through this ``confusing`` time. I refused the results actually and insisted that the counsellor does the test again- but she assured me that they had done the test already actually three times! After the initial shock came a calm resolve to get through it, no matter what. I do not remember feeling too bad about it- I acknowledged it as a medical condition. I knew though that the challenge would be to inform others in my world about it.
8. Who was the first person to know your sero- status?
It took me about 6 days to gain the resolve to tell someone about my positive diagnosis. And when I did it was to my partner (boyfriend) at the time.
9. What did your family, friends say?
I plucked up enough courage to tell my sister only about 3 months after my diagnosis. At the time, I had already begun treatment and had to travel to Blantyre ach month to get a re-fill of my drugs as at the time there was no provision for a positive person to get drug supplies for longer than 1 month at a time. Also, government had not yet come up with a subsidized fee for these anti-retrovirals and so I was having to pay heavily for the drugs. My mother had died and left me with a sizeable amount of money for my upkeep. This is what I tapped into quietly to pay for my medication without anyone in my family knowing. One day, overwhelmed by what this lifetime treatment plan would do to my body, I told my sister about the infection. She was very encouraging. I still remember those words she said to me: ``You silly girl, all this time you have been keeping it to yourself and suffering in silence! You should have told me earlier. How are you coping?`` I have never known compassion as I did on that day. That opened a flood gate of ``disclosures`` for me and I must say, to date, I have mostly been met only with very understanding responses. It is not correct to think that there is only negativity and stigma out there- there is hope, care and support as well! All of my family and friends have been extremely encouraging and helpful over the years and though some of them don`t know this-they give me hope to continue with the work that I do every day.
10. What drove you to go for the test?
At the time, I had two prevailing STIs going on! (sexually transmitted infections). I had a urinary tract infection (which can be transmitted sexually and or otherwise) but I also developed genital warts. The doctor that treated me for these two conditions recommended that I do a series of other tests, which I did. The tests included syphilis, gonorrhea and HIV…the first two tests all came back negative but the hiv was positively diagnosed.
11. Looking back what how do you compare life before testing positive and after testing positive?
That`s a hard question to answer! I have always been a busy person, consumed with my goals and activities and that hasn`t changed. But I think the major area in which I see a difference is I am now more focused. I want to see things through and do not just start and stop things. I am also very particular about what I spend my time on as I realise time is an investment. I am amazed that I have now lived 6 years knowingly hiv-positive and with the steady supply of anti-retroviral drugs have some many more years yet so I do not want to take this time for granted but instead to invest it in meaningful opportunities. I do not have time to sit and grieve and I do not suffer fools gladly. I also do not waste time trying to be liked by all-I realise that that may never happen so I just keep the ultimate goal in mind and the rest follows.
12. What is week day like for you?
My normal day begins with early morning devotion (am a Christian)
Next I go for a 15 to 20 minute jog around Lake Geneva-I live about 5 minutes away from the lake-right in the heart of Geneva
After my morning shower nowadays I make it a point to sit and have a proper breakfast. I have learned to do this as if I do not eat something proper I tend to snack on all sorts of junk throughout the day.
Work occupies me between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm. I enjoy my work a lot and enjoy the fact that I travel a lot and meet a lot of interesting people around the world. My evenings are spent either at different club meetings or at home in font of my computer as I am studying online. I am a member of the International Toastmasters Club of Geneva; and also go for Salsa and guitar classes. So I have to balance well between all of these interests as they all can be very engaging. Friday nights I unwind and usually do something fun with my girlfriends. There are so many great restaurants, cinemas and other places to visit in Geneva and am in a phase where am trying out new things. Saturday is a home day- I plan for the week, go grocery shopping and generally rest. Sundays I attend church before sitting back at the computer to work on my weekly assignments for my study program. Every night, the last thing I do before I sleep is take my daily dose of anti-retrovirals- I am currently on a combination of Truvada and Stockrin. They are both heavy drugs and that`s why they are recommended for night-time.
13. What challenges do you face?
I have just gotten over one challenge –that was getting used to the new drug combination, as I was on a different package altogether. Other than this there is nothing that is particular to me being a young women living with hiv. I experience the same challenges that other young women do. But the main challenge that I face every day is to not be defined by the virus in me. Living with hiv is only one aspect of my life-not all of it.
14. What makes you happy?
Giving back to my communities makes me happy-no matter where I am I want to get connected to what is central and give back of my energy, my time, my resources. These connections make me happy. Seeing people reach for their dreams also makes me happy. Over the years I have been involved at many levels as a peer educator for others-women and men-who are living with HIV. Seeing them bud as they go for the plans they have set for themselves makes me smile. It makes me feel am fulfilling my purpose.
15. What makes you sad?
Violence. Greed. Sickness. Anything that puts a burden on the normal flow of human existence.
16. What makes you go on in life?
My dreams. My hopes. My faith. I have an interesting relationship with God and I think often than not when I have run out of reasons to go on, the fact that I am his creation and that he created me for a purpose keeps me panting for more of life.
17. Do you have a boyfriend?
Yes, I do.
18. What is his sero status?
I will not answer this as I think the focus in a relationship should not be just about this-there are many other physical and other conditions that couples differ in that are never discussed. Yes, HIV is exceptional but in as far as it is up to us, we can normalise it. It is my contention that if people focused less on other people`s sero-status and instead learned to live better, healthier lives that stigma would be a thing of the past!
19. How do you guys lead your life together?
We lead a very normal relationship. He is aware of my status but that is not the central issue in our relationship, not does it occupy a huge amount of our time at the moment. We do not deny it but perhaps at this point it has not come up much. Perhaps he is still battling his own questions around the issues of HIV. Whatever the case, right now we are just enjoying each others` company and getting to know each other.
20. When do you plan to tie the knot?
The subject hasn`t come up yet! I think the relationship needs more time
21. What are your hobbies?
Playing the guitar (am at basic level)
Salsa dance
Entertaining (I love to cook for friends)
Reading and writing (get a copy of my first book, Positively Positive at African Collection Bookstore, Pacific Garden, Lilongwe). Am currently working on my first novel-watch this space!
Travel- Geneva is an hour away from many cities in Europe and whenever I can I get away
22. What do you plan to do in future?
I will not answer this. Quite happy with the present and living every day into the future.
23. Your piece of advice to Together Crew
Know your status then take measures to live a healthy and meaningful life either way. An hiv-positive diagnosis is not the end of your life-only the beginning of another. If every staff member of Together Crew went for an HIV think of how many lives this would affect? I would be happy to hear the stories if anyone is interested in sharing. Write to me at: watupe@yahoo.com
Thank you very much Bhatupe, may God bless you!
May 30, 2008
Celebrating a year with Development Brodcasting Unit (DBU)
I guess you are wondering why it took me long to update my blog. Well we now have full time access to the internet.
This month ( May ) I thank the almighy God that I have clocked a year with DBU. I have witnessed some results through Tiombenkota programme. Among them:
• The community through Tikolesyane Radio Listening Club (RLC), T.A Kaluluma in Kasungu were concerned with the unavailability of condoms, we lobbied government, Ministry of Health Reproductive Health Unit, UNFPA and PSI though Tiombenkota and the community now has access to the female condom, and at national level PSI launched the female condom, and is scaling up the availability.
• A 12 year old girl was raped in Mzimba by a 43 year old man we lobbied the government, Malawi Law Commission, Human Rights Organisations to formulate a specific HIV/AIDS policy because currently There is no specific law on deliberate HIV infection law that the affected can seek remedial action. A special law commission led by Father Joseph Mpinganjira has made final consultations and will submit the report to the Ministry of Justice . The National HIV/AIDS Legislation is due to be debated in parliament this year 2008. But I doubt if will be debated with all the developments going on in our country.
• On the need to support people living with HIV and AIDS with a good nutrition we lobbied government, Non Governmental Organisations and human rights organisation on the need to support the PLWAs, Government has started, giving civil servants who tested HIV positive a monthly allowance of K5,000.00 upon declaration of their HIV sero- status to meet their nutrition and travel expenses.
Government is also giving plumpy nuts (Chiponde) to the people living with HIV and AIDS in both the rural and urban areas to support their nutritional requirements, when they test HIV positive.
There is a lot that we have achieved in the professional arena, and I owe it all to DBU facilitators, the RLCs and the community who raised their concerns, the panelists from government, non governmental organisations who took action.
It has not been easy though, twice I was stricken by storms. There was a time I recorded three programs, but only one was audible, I don’t know what happened to the other programmes. On another trip I discovered that my machine could not record anything three minutes before the panel discussion and I had the professors and Doctors and Directors waiting for almost 30 Minutes and just postponed the discussion to a later date. I felt so embarrassed like and sorry could not be good enough to the panellists who came despite their busy schedules. But anyway I quote the words of Dell Crossword : “Success is not permanent, the same is also true of failure.
Some of the challenges that I continue to face is task shifting,that the senior officer delegating a junior to the panel discussion, we do understand their busy schedule, but sometimes I think they are not doing justice, because at the end of the day when we ask the panelists for action to the problem presented, the junior staff will always say let me go and consult.
Some of the people from the government side will actually ask how much lunch allowance they will get, nanji a parliamentarian amafuna zambiri: T and T, accomodation at the executive hotels, a fat per diem.
On the social aspect: I have had some good times with my friends and collegues. I am looking forward to more wonderful times ahead. Patrick Manja I am very sorry for forgeting you in the list of people who mean a lot to me. I had not intended to hurt you. I love you.
This week Saturday we have a fundraising braiii for our St Kizito mphakati. at Mr and Mrs Nagoli’s residence in Chiwembe (Pa Corner shop) You are invited.
DBU is in the process of becoming a local NGO, this year, so please pray for us that we should accomplish the mission.
My thoughts on some current issues
On the former president’s arrest
I give a benefit of doubt on the coup detait allegations against Muluzi. I feel its time for the former president to rest and concentrate in his family business, because I don’t see any chances of him winning the presidential elections. After ruling for 10 years what more does he want to contribute to the warm heart of Africa? A tcheya afuna kukhala ngati a Uncle Bob (Mugabe) bwanji. But he still has a huge fan, yesterday when he was appealing at the high court I saw some women clad in yellow wraps, and men carrying placards. Anthuwo amene akuwamenyerera akuyenda pa magalimoto iwowo achita kuyenda pansi from as far as kwa Bvumbwe, abale inu kumvetsa chisoni.
On knowledge gaps on HIV/AIDS
My sister was invited to a training of primary teachers on HIV/AIDS conducted by the Central Education Division. During one of the session on prevention, an Education personnel ‘Pair’ told the attentive partcipants that the female condom can be used twice, a woman can wash it and use it again.
Abale this is so sad, that this was coming from a learned person.Maybe he needed to be educated on the use of the condom prior to the training.
Next time I will share with you an interview with a young lady that moved my heart.
Good bye
This month ( May ) I thank the almighy God that I have clocked a year with DBU. I have witnessed some results through Tiombenkota programme. Among them:
• The community through Tikolesyane Radio Listening Club (RLC), T.A Kaluluma in Kasungu were concerned with the unavailability of condoms, we lobbied government, Ministry of Health Reproductive Health Unit, UNFPA and PSI though Tiombenkota and the community now has access to the female condom, and at national level PSI launched the female condom, and is scaling up the availability.
• A 12 year old girl was raped in Mzimba by a 43 year old man we lobbied the government, Malawi Law Commission, Human Rights Organisations to formulate a specific HIV/AIDS policy because currently There is no specific law on deliberate HIV infection law that the affected can seek remedial action. A special law commission led by Father Joseph Mpinganjira has made final consultations and will submit the report to the Ministry of Justice . The National HIV/AIDS Legislation is due to be debated in parliament this year 2008. But I doubt if will be debated with all the developments going on in our country.
• On the need to support people living with HIV and AIDS with a good nutrition we lobbied government, Non Governmental Organisations and human rights organisation on the need to support the PLWAs, Government has started, giving civil servants who tested HIV positive a monthly allowance of K5,000.00 upon declaration of their HIV sero- status to meet their nutrition and travel expenses.
Government is also giving plumpy nuts (Chiponde) to the people living with HIV and AIDS in both the rural and urban areas to support their nutritional requirements, when they test HIV positive.
There is a lot that we have achieved in the professional arena, and I owe it all to DBU facilitators, the RLCs and the community who raised their concerns, the panelists from government, non governmental organisations who took action.
It has not been easy though, twice I was stricken by storms. There was a time I recorded three programs, but only one was audible, I don’t know what happened to the other programmes. On another trip I discovered that my machine could not record anything three minutes before the panel discussion and I had the professors and Doctors and Directors waiting for almost 30 Minutes and just postponed the discussion to a later date. I felt so embarrassed like and sorry could not be good enough to the panellists who came despite their busy schedules. But anyway I quote the words of Dell Crossword : “Success is not permanent, the same is also true of failure.
Some of the challenges that I continue to face is task shifting,that the senior officer delegating a junior to the panel discussion, we do understand their busy schedule, but sometimes I think they are not doing justice, because at the end of the day when we ask the panelists for action to the problem presented, the junior staff will always say let me go and consult.
Some of the people from the government side will actually ask how much lunch allowance they will get, nanji a parliamentarian amafuna zambiri: T and T, accomodation at the executive hotels, a fat per diem.
On the social aspect: I have had some good times with my friends and collegues. I am looking forward to more wonderful times ahead. Patrick Manja I am very sorry for forgeting you in the list of people who mean a lot to me. I had not intended to hurt you. I love you.
This week Saturday we have a fundraising braiii for our St Kizito mphakati. at Mr and Mrs Nagoli’s residence in Chiwembe (Pa Corner shop) You are invited.
DBU is in the process of becoming a local NGO, this year, so please pray for us that we should accomplish the mission.
My thoughts on some current issues
On the former president’s arrest
I give a benefit of doubt on the coup detait allegations against Muluzi. I feel its time for the former president to rest and concentrate in his family business, because I don’t see any chances of him winning the presidential elections. After ruling for 10 years what more does he want to contribute to the warm heart of Africa? A tcheya afuna kukhala ngati a Uncle Bob (Mugabe) bwanji. But he still has a huge fan, yesterday when he was appealing at the high court I saw some women clad in yellow wraps, and men carrying placards. Anthuwo amene akuwamenyerera akuyenda pa magalimoto iwowo achita kuyenda pansi from as far as kwa Bvumbwe, abale inu kumvetsa chisoni.
On knowledge gaps on HIV/AIDS
My sister was invited to a training of primary teachers on HIV/AIDS conducted by the Central Education Division. During one of the session on prevention, an Education personnel ‘Pair’ told the attentive partcipants that the female condom can be used twice, a woman can wash it and use it again.
Abale this is so sad, that this was coming from a learned person.Maybe he needed to be educated on the use of the condom prior to the training.
Next time I will share with you an interview with a young lady that moved my heart.
Good bye
Mar 12, 2008
About me
My name is Pauline Kalumikiza, Pauline originates from Latin word meaning small, short, poor and no wonder I am short and plump but that does not worry me anymore because I am fearfully and wonderfully made by the creator.
I was born in Mchinji at Guillime Mission hospital around 9 p.m. on Thursday 23rd February, 1984. I was raised up in Mchinji, Mtukwa village T.A Mlonyeni until the age of 6. Between ages 6 to 23 I was raised up in Area 47, Lilongwe where my father has been operating as a business man. My father Geoffrey Kalumikiza and mother Flora Weluzani divorced when I was very young in 1989 so I have grown up in the loving hands of my father and sisters: Ruth, Charity and Doreen.
I started my primary school at Misale Primary School in Mchinji and later standard 2 at Chigoneka FP school and standard 3 and 4 at Ludzi Primary School. I later went to Walani Private School in Lilongwe for standard 5 till standard 6. Thereafter I did my secondary school in two different schools first beginning with the Eton of Africa Kamuzu Academy for form 1 till form 3.
Due to financial hardships, my father had to find an altenative school that offers similar syllabus of International General School Certificate of Education IGCSE O level and A level.
I then moved on to Roosevelt Girls High School, Harare, Zimbabwe and attained the Zimbabwe General School Certificate of Education ZGSCE. Following this I wrote the University entrance exams and I was successful.
I enrolled for a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism in October 2001. During my childhood I had a dream of becoming a lawyer and I did not stop so I applied for law, and in my second year I attempted the law exams, however things did not turn out well for me. I remember my father when he was ill then on his hospital bed saying “Do not lose heart; you can still do it after you complete your first degree.” I felt so ashamed going back to class, I gathered up strength with those few words my dad told me.
I am one of those people that had one of the interesting childhoods. I grew up with an educated and hardworking father who played the role of a mother then I had a step Mum who was kind of loving and is still loving, but you and I know it’s not the same as compared to your biological mother.
I had good times at the Polytechnic and I loved my course. I met new friends Sintha Mkuziwaduka, Julliette Chimwaga, Montfort Misunje Dziko Malunda, Lourine Phiri, Crensensia Kansale and James Harry Chitete.
I thank God for the people like Eunice Banda wife to Sam Banda of the Navigators ministry who gave me the spiritual and emotional support I needed especially during the times I was bitter with relationships in college.
My first employer after Unima was at Trans World Radio in June 2006. I worked as a producer for Climbing Higher, a programme that aims to biblically address youth issues and struggles that young people face. Apart from Climbing Higher I produced the Church Magazine, compiled news and reports, and was a continuity announcer. My life was transformed spiritually, TWR was a warm, caring and welcoming environment and the Director had a heart for his employees.
I grew up in my spiritual life and I took my colleagues as my family. When I was just confirmed as an employee in the 8th month, I began to apply for jobs elsewhere, because of my dissatisfaction with some of the conditions of services. I left TWR in May 2007, I served the station for only 11 months, I didn’t leave a mark but I will always treasure the good moments I had with youths from different backgrounds. It was hard to part with them some of whom had become my friends and could always call me when they have a burning issue.
I am currently working with the Development Broadcasting Unit (DBU), as a producer for Tiombenkota programme. DBU is a semi-autonomous unit based at the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) which is a state owned broadcaster. The DBU is now in the process of registering as a local NGO under the name Development Communications Trust (DCT).
Tiombenkota is a reflection programme from the community generated programme Tigwirane Manja,whereby a team of experts and policy makers discuss key issues from the community. The community identifies issues affecting their livelihood. We are working towards HIV AIDS prevention and behaviour change . Tiombenkota targets the Civil Society Organisations, decision makers, policy makers or implementors. My desire is to see some policy changes and right now I am longing to hear that the national HIV/AIDS legislation is passed in parliament, it makes me sad to hear that an HIV positive man raped a young girl in the hope of cleansing their HIV sero- status.
My normal day begins with a morning prayer. I then do some sit-ups and stretches. I sometimes I have breakfast, but I prefer having breakfast at 10 a.m.
Work occupies me between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm. I enjoy my work, I get to meet a lot of interesting people from the NGOs and Government. I travel at least once a month to Lilongwe to gather material for Tiombenkota programme. By the way it’s broadcast on Thursday evening at 06:30 P.M. My evenings are spent at home, either watching TVM or reading novels. On Tuedsday evenings I usually go for prayers with my fellow catholics.
Saturday I do general cleaning, do my laundry, go grocery shopping and generally rest. Sundays I attend church and I dedicate the whole day to listening to some inspiring spiritual music, and do open the door for friends. My friends mean a lot to me, I feel good when in their presence. And if there is gospel music show, I do attend if I find company.
My sisters are Ruth, Charity, Doreen, Zione, Wakissa and I have one brother Michael who is in form one at Marist Brothers in Dedza.
I have lots of friends-some of whom are so special and I will always treasure their support. These include Janet Kalampa, Eunice Banda, Julliette Chimwaga Victor Kaonga, Chikondi Hayaya, Rejoice Chikakuda, Jessie Banda, Davie Botie, Montfort Misunje, Chikondi Maguru, Alice Bwetu, Adam Gondwe, Judith Santhe, Wilmore Kasambara and Delvin Khongono.
My hobbies are reading novels, traveling, cooking for friends, and writing poems, though I am not so excited to publish them. I am an editorial member of Together Magazine so if you get a copy, you will sample some of my work. I am happy to see young people realise their dreams.
My next step is to study towards a Masters in Development, because of my keen interest in development work and have the passion to work with the grassroots, dealing with their critical human rights, social concerns and health conditions that negatively affect the marginalised community.
I would be happy if you share your story, pictures with me. Your comments, piece of advice and critique of my work are welcome. Listen to Tiombenkota, a programme that advocates for policy change and behaviour change which airs every Thursday at 6:30 P.M on MBC Radio 1.
I was born in Mchinji at Guillime Mission hospital around 9 p.m. on Thursday 23rd February, 1984. I was raised up in Mchinji, Mtukwa village T.A Mlonyeni until the age of 6. Between ages 6 to 23 I was raised up in Area 47, Lilongwe where my father has been operating as a business man. My father Geoffrey Kalumikiza and mother Flora Weluzani divorced when I was very young in 1989 so I have grown up in the loving hands of my father and sisters: Ruth, Charity and Doreen.
I started my primary school at Misale Primary School in Mchinji and later standard 2 at Chigoneka FP school and standard 3 and 4 at Ludzi Primary School. I later went to Walani Private School in Lilongwe for standard 5 till standard 6. Thereafter I did my secondary school in two different schools first beginning with the Eton of Africa Kamuzu Academy for form 1 till form 3.
Due to financial hardships, my father had to find an altenative school that offers similar syllabus of International General School Certificate of Education IGCSE O level and A level.
I then moved on to Roosevelt Girls High School, Harare, Zimbabwe and attained the Zimbabwe General School Certificate of Education ZGSCE. Following this I wrote the University entrance exams and I was successful.
I enrolled for a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism in October 2001. During my childhood I had a dream of becoming a lawyer and I did not stop so I applied for law, and in my second year I attempted the law exams, however things did not turn out well for me. I remember my father when he was ill then on his hospital bed saying “Do not lose heart; you can still do it after you complete your first degree.” I felt so ashamed going back to class, I gathered up strength with those few words my dad told me.
I am one of those people that had one of the interesting childhoods. I grew up with an educated and hardworking father who played the role of a mother then I had a step Mum who was kind of loving and is still loving, but you and I know it’s not the same as compared to your biological mother.
I had good times at the Polytechnic and I loved my course. I met new friends Sintha Mkuziwaduka, Julliette Chimwaga, Montfort Misunje Dziko Malunda, Lourine Phiri, Crensensia Kansale and James Harry Chitete.
I thank God for the people like Eunice Banda wife to Sam Banda of the Navigators ministry who gave me the spiritual and emotional support I needed especially during the times I was bitter with relationships in college.
My first employer after Unima was at Trans World Radio in June 2006. I worked as a producer for Climbing Higher, a programme that aims to biblically address youth issues and struggles that young people face. Apart from Climbing Higher I produced the Church Magazine, compiled news and reports, and was a continuity announcer. My life was transformed spiritually, TWR was a warm, caring and welcoming environment and the Director had a heart for his employees.
I grew up in my spiritual life and I took my colleagues as my family. When I was just confirmed as an employee in the 8th month, I began to apply for jobs elsewhere, because of my dissatisfaction with some of the conditions of services. I left TWR in May 2007, I served the station for only 11 months, I didn’t leave a mark but I will always treasure the good moments I had with youths from different backgrounds. It was hard to part with them some of whom had become my friends and could always call me when they have a burning issue.
I am currently working with the Development Broadcasting Unit (DBU), as a producer for Tiombenkota programme. DBU is a semi-autonomous unit based at the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) which is a state owned broadcaster. The DBU is now in the process of registering as a local NGO under the name Development Communications Trust (DCT).
Tiombenkota is a reflection programme from the community generated programme Tigwirane Manja,whereby a team of experts and policy makers discuss key issues from the community. The community identifies issues affecting their livelihood. We are working towards HIV AIDS prevention and behaviour change . Tiombenkota targets the Civil Society Organisations, decision makers, policy makers or implementors. My desire is to see some policy changes and right now I am longing to hear that the national HIV/AIDS legislation is passed in parliament, it makes me sad to hear that an HIV positive man raped a young girl in the hope of cleansing their HIV sero- status.
My normal day begins with a morning prayer. I then do some sit-ups and stretches. I sometimes I have breakfast, but I prefer having breakfast at 10 a.m.
Work occupies me between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm. I enjoy my work, I get to meet a lot of interesting people from the NGOs and Government. I travel at least once a month to Lilongwe to gather material for Tiombenkota programme. By the way it’s broadcast on Thursday evening at 06:30 P.M. My evenings are spent at home, either watching TVM or reading novels. On Tuedsday evenings I usually go for prayers with my fellow catholics.
Saturday I do general cleaning, do my laundry, go grocery shopping and generally rest. Sundays I attend church and I dedicate the whole day to listening to some inspiring spiritual music, and do open the door for friends. My friends mean a lot to me, I feel good when in their presence. And if there is gospel music show, I do attend if I find company.
My sisters are Ruth, Charity, Doreen, Zione, Wakissa and I have one brother Michael who is in form one at Marist Brothers in Dedza.
I have lots of friends-some of whom are so special and I will always treasure their support. These include Janet Kalampa, Eunice Banda, Julliette Chimwaga Victor Kaonga, Chikondi Hayaya, Rejoice Chikakuda, Jessie Banda, Davie Botie, Montfort Misunje, Chikondi Maguru, Alice Bwetu, Adam Gondwe, Judith Santhe, Wilmore Kasambara and Delvin Khongono.
My hobbies are reading novels, traveling, cooking for friends, and writing poems, though I am not so excited to publish them. I am an editorial member of Together Magazine so if you get a copy, you will sample some of my work. I am happy to see young people realise their dreams.
My next step is to study towards a Masters in Development, because of my keen interest in development work and have the passion to work with the grassroots, dealing with their critical human rights, social concerns and health conditions that negatively affect the marginalised community.
I would be happy if you share your story, pictures with me. Your comments, piece of advice and critique of my work are welcome. Listen to Tiombenkota, a programme that advocates for policy change and behaviour change which airs every Thursday at 6:30 P.M on MBC Radio 1.
Feb 28, 2008
Hey I am Blogging Now
I had created one last time but uh I forgot the log in details hence I created this new one. Now you will see me make more noise and keep you abreast with what I do and also what happens in my life. Most importantly, I will share with you my journey of helping Malawi develop through development communication.
I am passionate about sharing information that will help the average Malawian woman and man most of whom live in villages. As a development conscious broadcast journalist, I am keen to learn and grow in my knowledge of how to produce and deliver good radio programmes.
So if you can, encourage me in any way you can afford. I strongly believe that just like in broadcasting where life lessons come from team work, you are part of my online team where ever you are in the world and who ever you are.
Next time I will tell you more about myself and especially why I am a smilling Stella carrying the blog name Nambewe. Please when reading this aloud, pronounce it correctly as broadcasters always aim at getting pronunciations right!
I am passionate about sharing information that will help the average Malawian woman and man most of whom live in villages. As a development conscious broadcast journalist, I am keen to learn and grow in my knowledge of how to produce and deliver good radio programmes.
So if you can, encourage me in any way you can afford. I strongly believe that just like in broadcasting where life lessons come from team work, you are part of my online team where ever you are in the world and who ever you are.
Next time I will tell you more about myself and especially why I am a smilling Stella carrying the blog name Nambewe. Please when reading this aloud, pronounce it correctly as broadcasters always aim at getting pronunciations right!
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