
* This Easter, let us rise above the forces that divide us. Let us reject the culture of greed, corruption, and kuthana, and instead choose a path of unity, integrity, and compassion
* The resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a living call to transformation. May this season inspire us, not only to celebrate, but to change
By Chifipa Mhango, Chief Economist & Executive Director-Don Consultancy Group
As we gather to commemorate the sacred season of Easter, we are reminded of the profound message embedded in the death and resurrection of Christ, a message of sacrifice, redemption, renewal, and hope.
For us Malawians, this is not merely a religious observance; it is an opportunity for deep national introspection. Easter calls upon us to pause and reflect on who we are as a people, where we are as a nation, and most importantly, who we ought to become.

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A nation at a moral crossroads
Malawi today faces not only economic and political challenges, but a deeper and more concerning crisis, a moral one. Across our communities, we are witnessing a troubling rise in greed, corruption, and self-interest. The pursuit of personal gain has, in many instances, overshadowed the collective good.
Nepotism has been an enemy of society for years and erodes meritocracy, while undermining institutions and breeding frustration among capable citizens.
Corruption has, regrettably, become normalized in certain spaces, weakening trust in leadership and governance. Socio-economic hardships such as unemployment, poverty, and inequality, have further strained the social fabric, often pushing individuals toward survival-driven decisions that compromise ethical standards.


Equally concerning is the growing spirit of division and hostility among us. The culture of kuthana — that is seeking to fight, undermine, or pull others down by all means — has taken root in our workplaces, politics, and even within communities.
Instead of celebrating each other’s progress, we sometimes find ourselves resisting it. This spirit is not only destructive to individuals; it is corrosive to national unity and development.
The political landscape and leadership responsibility
Our political environment reflects, and in some ways amplifies, these societal challenges. Politics, which should be a platform for service and nation-building, often becomes a battleground for power, influence, and personal advancement.
Easter reminds leaders, across all sectors, that true leadership is rooted in humility, sacrifice, and service. Christ’s journey, as told in The Bible, was not one of self-glorification, but of selflessness.
He chose the cross for the sake of others.

If Malawi is to move forward, leadership must shift from self-centered ambition to Genuine and Honest servant leadership, placing the needs of the nation above personal or political interests.
A path to renewal
At its core, Easter season is about transformation. It is about moving from death to life, from darkness to light, from brokenness to restoration.
This message holds powerful relevance for Malawi today;
* Against greed, Easter calls us to embrace generosity and contentment;
* Against corruption, it calls us to integrity and accountability;
* Against hate and division, it calls us to love, forgiveness, and unity;
* Against kuthana, it calls us to uplift one another, recognizing that progress for one is progress for all.
The resurrection of Christ symbolises the possibility of a new beginning. No matter how deep the moral decay, renewal is always within reach, if we are willing to change.

A collective responsibility
National transformation does not begin in government offices or boardrooms; it begins within each individual heart. Every Malawian has a role to play in rebuilding the moral and social fabric of our nation.
We must ask ourselves difficult questions:
* Am I contributing to unity or division?
* Do my actions build or destroy trust?
* Am I driven by integrity or by self-interest?
Easter challenges us to take personal responsibility for the state of our nation.
A message of hope
Despite the challenges we face, Easter is ultimately a message of hope. It reminds us that even in moments of despair, renewal is possible — Malawi is not beyond redemption.

If we, as a people, can embrace the true spirit of Easter, repentance, humility, love, and renewal, then we can begin to heal our nation. We can rebuild trust, restore integrity, and reignite a shared vision for a better Malawi.
Conclusion
This Easter, let us rise above the forces that divide us. Let us reject the culture of greed, corruption, and kuthana, and instead choose a path of unity, integrity, and compassion.
The resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a living call to transformation. May this season inspire us, not only to celebrate, but to change.
Happy Easter to all Malawians!

Chifipa Mhango
* Chifipa Mhango is the Chief Economist at Don Consultancy Group, specialising in macroeconomic analysis, public policy, and governance across emerging markets, particularly in Africa. He is known for providing data-driven insights on economic trends, fiscal policy, and institutional accountability, with a strong focus on strengthening economic and governance frameworks.

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