By Burnett Munthali
KASUNGU, Malawi — Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah on Saturday visited Zikomo Farm in Chief Lukwa’s area in Kasungu District, where she combined a strong message of empowerment and inclusion with a sharp response to her critics during a community engagement event.
The visit highlighted the farm’s growing agricultural success and its contribution to the local economy, while also serving as a platform for the Vice President to reaffirm her political loyalty and commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities.
Speaking candidly about her political journey, Ansah said she joined the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) willingly because it was the party closest to her heart. She dismissed claims by individuals she described as “false prophets” alleging that she intends to form her own political party.
“I have always been quiet, but I am not stupid. I am not a coward. One day I will speak out and you will hear me,” Ansah declared, signaling growing frustration with her critics.
She also defended her political credentials against critics who question her background, noting that politics accommodates people from different professional paths, including the judiciary. Ansah stressed that her experience as a judge remains an important part of her leadership journey.
The Vice President criticized younger critics whom she accused of spreading falsehoods, saying many of them were nearly the age of her own children. At the same time, she praised the hospitality of the Kasungu community and commended local agricultural initiatives she observed during the visit.
Zikomo Farm, known for producing organic bananas, pawpaws, and sweet potatoes supplied to local hotels, has experienced rapid growth due in part to irrigation supported by a borehole donated by missionaries. Chief Lukwa said the farm had expanded from 200 banana plants to more than 2,000 and revealed plans to construct a dam to further boost production.
As part of the outreach program, the Dr. Jane Ansah Foundation distributed food items, bicycles, soap, and other essentials to vulnerable families. The initiative reflects the foundation’s broader mission of promoting self-reliance and dignity among disadvantaged groups.
Chief Lukwa welcomed the Vice President at Chidzenje Primary School and presented her with two goats and a cooler box filled with honey as a symbol of appreciation from the community. He also lamented the poor road network, which prevented the Vice President from touring the farm factory as initially planned.
Former legislator and opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) member Jailos Bonongwe also addressed the gathering, urging Ansah to remain focused on serving the nation despite criticism. He praised former President Peter Mutharika for appointing her to the position and commended Chief Lukwa for promoting development and unity in the area.
The event further highlighted the work of the Ufulu Girls Foundation, which supports girls returning to school after dropping out. Foundation representatives appealed to Ansah for support in constructing a hostel to accommodate more girls in a safe learning environment.
Representatives from the Dr. Jane Ansah Foundation emphasized that the organization prioritizes empowerment over dependency, focusing on vulnerable groups including people with albinism, persons with disabilities, individuals with dwarfism, and the elderly.
Ansah encouraged communities to reject discrimination and support inclusive development efforts, particularly for girls and people living with albinism. She stressed the importance of resilience and self-belief, reminding attendees that difficult circumstances should never define one’s future.
“We may help with handouts, but we want people to stand independently after being uplifted,” Ansah said as she concluded her visit with a message centered on empowerment, unity, and self-reliance.
