Malawi Writers Union (Mawu) newly elected national executive committee on Friday finally endorsed a new board that includes Former First Lady, Callista Mutharika, during a meeting held in Liwonde.
Mawu’s Publicity Secretary, Pius Nyondo, said on Monday that the new executive is geared to improve things.
“It is a board that includes Dr Susuwele Banda, Emmanuel Chinunda, Marvin Hanke, and Callista Mutharika. All the names were endorsed except Jimmy Koreia Mpatsa because of his other engagements,” said Nyondo.
He hoped that the board will help them in fundraising to up their finances which he noted as of now are abysmal.
“Mawu runs on less than K15 million annually and we would like to raise at least K50 million in the next year,” said Nyondo.
Nyondo said that Mawu has had challenges in getting membership fees.
“The executive did not reach a consensus but suggestions have been made to set up deadlines at which membership fees must be paid. And also to bring in activities such as writing workshops and competitions that will lure more writers into the union,” said Nyondo.
He added that the membership fees will certainly rise to K5,000 for budding writers, K15,000 for affiliates and K20,000 for established writers and that the categories of silver, gold and platinum will apply.
“All this is to make Mawu vibrant but also generate enough funds but the membership fees increase will be after consultations with the board are made,” said the youthful writer.
He said that Mawu needs support from members and all Malawians and that they will soon be engaging various stakeholders to help them shape their strategic plan for the next five years.
The Mawu national executive was elected recently which saw Mike Sambalikagwa Mvona retaining the presidency.
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