Several activists and analysts appointed to serve on boards of various parastatal organisations say their new roles will not compromise their activism, but will instead strengthen their ability to advocate for accountability and good governance.
Political and governance commentator Vincent Rangel, who has been appointed Vice Chairperson of the Malawi Council of Disability Affairs (MACODA), told Zodiak Online that his appointment reflects confidence in the oversight work he has consistently provided on political and governance matters.
Rangel said the new role will allow him to contribute directly to disability-related policy reforms while maintaining his independence as an analyst.
In a similar sentiment, Malawi Congress of Trade Unions (MCTU) Secretary General Charles Kumchenga—now a board member of the Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority—said his appointment is not unusual, noting that unionists have previously served on parastatal boards.
Kumchenga stressed that his activism in labour rights will continue uninterrupted, adding that his presence on the board gives workers a stronger voice in national regulatory institutions.
Educationist and policy expert Dr. Limbani Nsapato, who has been appointed to the University of Malawi board, said he intends to use his extensive experience in the education sector to offer meaningful advice and policy guidance.
He noted that the appointment is an opportunity to strengthen the governance and performance of one of Malawi’s premier public institutions.
Other notable appointments include Professor Maureen Chirwa, a respected health expert and analyst, and Maziko Matemba, a prominent health activist—both of whom have joined the board of the Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHES).
Human rights advocate Charles Kajoloweka has also been appointed to the Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TEVETA) board.
The appointees say their representation in key governance structures will enhance, rather than diminish, their advocacy roles as they continue pushing for transparency, reforms and improved service delivery across sectors.
