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Check FAQAbout Brian
Brian Ligomeka is a journalist based in Blantyre, Malawi. Brian has worked for both local and international media outlets in his career spanning over 20 years. In Malawi, Brian Ligomeka worked as Editor for Times Group where he edited The Sunday Times, The Daily Times and was also the producer of some current affairs programmes for Times Television and Times Radio. He has also contributed to several international media outlets including Inter Press Service, BBC Monitoring Service, South Africa's News24, Africa Confidential and is the current stringer for Deutsche Presse Agentur (Germany News Agency) in Malawi. He currently leads a human rights media organisation, Centre for Solutions Journalism. Besides contributing to international media, Brian has also served as a fixer for journalists from such organisations as CNN and SkyNews. Brian holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree from Heriot-Watt University in Scotland, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mass Communication from Shareworld Open University. He also has qualifications in teaching, having been educated at Blantyre Teachers College.
Portfolio
Unsafe Abortions: A Looming Crisis in Malawi's Fight Against Maternal Mortality
The article by Brian Ligomeka discusses the critical issue of unsafe abortions in Malawi and their contribution to maternal mortality, which is at odds with the Sustainable Development Goal to reduce maternal deaths. It tells the story of Manesi Kamolo, whose daughter died from complications of an unsafe abortion after being raped. The article presents data from Ipas Malawi and research by the Guttmacher Institute and Malawi's College of Medicine, highlighting the high number of unsafe abortions and post-abortion treatments. It points out that restrictive abortion laws lead women to seek unsafe methods of terminating pregnancies. The article also mentions the drafted but not yet enacted Terminations of Pregnancy (T.O.P) Bill, which faces opposition from religious leaders and patriarchal forces. Emma Kaliya, a gender activist and chairperson of COPUA, is quoted advocating for the bill's enactment to prevent further maternal deaths due to unsafe abortions.
Tropical Cyclone Freddy, one of the strongest and longest storms, has killed 100 people in the southern African nation of Malawi through flash-floods, mudslides, collapsed houses and washed away bridges.
Malawi: Cyclone Freddy Kills 100 in Southern Malawi
Tropical Cyclone Freddy has caused significant devastation in southern Malawi, resulting in 100 deaths, 20 missing persons, and the displacement of over 4,000 people. Blantyre is the worst-hit city, with 85 bodies recovered. Rescue operations led by the Malawi Defense Force are hindered by a lack of proper equipment and accessibility issues. The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services warns of continued torrential rains and gusty winds. President Lazarus Chakwera has declared a state of disaster in the affected region.
Malawi Sovereign State, My Foot… stop the crap and face reality
Malawi's claim to sovereignty is questioned, highlighting the country's dependence on foreign aid and inability to self-sustain economically. The article criticizes the government for not effectively fighting corruption and relying on international institutions for financial support. It calls for a realistic assessment of Malawi's limitations and the need for genuine efforts to combat corruption.
Lawsuit Mitigators for Loudmouths
Social media influencers and anti-corruption crusaders in Malawi can avoid multi-million Kwacha lawsuits by using satire, where real names are not used, and by clearly labeling their social media posts as opinions rather than facts. This approach can mitigate the impact of lawsuits and reduce legal costs.
Slow path to gender equality as some pastors welcome LGBTI community
The article discusses the changing attitudes towards LGBTI individuals in Malawi, highlighting that 3.5 percent of adults identify as LGBTI. It focuses on the experiences of intersex people and the support from some faith leaders who preach inclusion and equality. The story of Baba Ngoza and his intersex child is used to illustrate the challenges faced by sexual and gender minorities. The article also references research by Afriscope and The Other Foundation, which shows a growing acceptance of LGBTI people in Malawi. It mentions the advocacy work of CEDEP for the rights of sexual and gender minorities and calls for the repeal of anti-homosexuality laws in the country. The author of the article is the executive director of Centre for Solutions Journalism, which suggests a vested interest in the topic.
Malawian pastors threaten government with court action to force arrest of 4,000 gays
The Young Pastors Coalition of Malawi (YPCM) has accused the government of promoting homosexuality by not arresting gays and lesbians, following a survey by the Centre for the Development of the People (Cedep) that found 4,000 homosexuals in Mzuzu. The pastors demand the arrest and prosecution of these individuals, while Malawi's Justice Minister Samuel Tembenu and Cedep's executive director Gift Trapence criticize the pastors' stance as retrogressive and emphasize the government's commitment to reviewing anti-homosexual laws. Despite the pastors' campaign, the government maintains it will not arrest or prosecute gay citizens until the laws are reviewed.
Malawi and Mozambique can't agree on refugee crisis
Malawi and Mozambique are at odds over the relocation of refugees, with Malawi favoring relocation to Luwani Refugee Camp and Mozambique advocating for repatriation. Malawian Home Affairs Minister Jean Kalilani highlighted the adequacy of Luwani Camp, while Mozambican Governor Paulo Awade denied the presence of refugees, attributing the displaced people to drought. The UNHCR praised Malawi's decision to reopen Luwani Camp, noting an increase in daily arrivals. The conflict in Mozambique, driven by Renamo leader Alfonso Dhlakama's power seizure threats, has led to escalating clashes.
Malawi druglords use coffins and ambulances to smuggle dagga
Malawian drug traffickers are using innovative methods such as coffins and ambulances to smuggle cannabis, complicating police efforts to combat the trade. Despite destroying thousands of kilograms of marijuana and uprooting large cannabis plantations, Malawi remains a major producer, with much of the drug destined for South Africa. A UN report noted that a significant acreage in Malawi is used for marijuana cultivation. Local debates are ongoing about the potential economic benefits of legalizing industrial hemp, with some advocates emphasizing its value as a cash crop and others warning against the risks of increased drug abuse.
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