Gotani Hara Advocates for Fairness in Social Protection Programs

Malawi Congress Party (MCP) First Deputy Vice President Catherine Gotani Hara has expressed concerns over the selection process of beneficiaries in government Social Protection Programs.

Speaking at a rally in Karonga, Hara emphasized the need for fairness in identifying beneficiaries for programs like the Cash Transfer Programme and Affordable Input Program (AIP).

She noted that the same individuals are often selected for multiple programs, leaving other deserving citizens out.

Hara highlighted the importance of government programs like Social Cash Transfer and AIP in reducing poverty and improving food security among the most disadvantaged.

“It’s disappointing to see the same people benefiting from multiple programs while others are left out. We must ensure every eligible person has an equal chance,” she said.

Richard Chimwendo Banda, MCP Secretary General and Minister of Local Government, outlined significant development projects initiated by President Lazarus Chakwera’s administration in Karonga, including the Karonga Water Supply Project and rehabilitation of rice irrigation scheme.

Senior Chief Karonga thanked MCP for donating 240 bags of cement to aid construction of additional classroom blocks at Baka Primary School, which currently accommodates over 3,600 pupils with only 15 classrooms.

The rally saw over 100 members from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and People’s Party (PP) defect to the ruling party.