Zodiak's Towera Katswiri takes Vice Chair's role at Nyika Media club in Mzuzu

By Chisomo Sezi

Zodiak's Towera Katswiri has emerged the winner in the Vice Chair's role at Nyika Media Club beating Isaac Chawinga by 87 votes to 16.

Katswiri (Left) being congratulated by a Nyika Media Club member PIC Chisomo Sezi

The elections were held on the sidelines of an Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday in Mzuzu City, bringing together journalists and media professionals from across the Northern Region.

During the AGM, members of the club elected Towera Katswiri, a Zodiak Broadcasting Station reporter, as the new vice chairperson beating Isaac Chawinga by 87 votes to 16.

Katswiri replaces Alepher Kasongo, who stepped down earlier this year.

Head of Journalism and Development Studies at the University of Livingstonia who was also the guest of honor, Dr Innocent Muyanga Ziba, stressed the need for serious professionalism in reporting.

“With misinformation on the rise, journalists have a duty to be accurate, balanced, and accountable. The credibility of the media is at stake, and so is the peace of the nation,” Ziba said.

Mzuzu University Registrar, Cliff Kawanga, voiced concern over the erosion of public trust due to fake news, calling it a threat to the professional of journalism in the country.

"Misinformation has the power to incite fear and division. As journalists, your work should unite and enlighten, especially in times of national decision-making,” said Kwanga.

Freency Mapanga from the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust reminded journalists of their responsibility to inform the public with verified and educational content.

"Journalists must be proactive in fact-checking, objective reporting, and investigative work. These practices are crucial if we want to maintain peaceful and informed electoral processes in 2025,” Mapanga said

Nyika Media Club Chairperson Feston Malekezo emphasized the importance of distinguishing trained journalists from content creators on social media.

"As professionals, we must commit to stories that build the country and avoid narratives that damage reputations or mislead the masses,” he said.

In her remarks,Katswiri aligned herself with this vision, vowing to promote high standards of journalism in the region.

“This leadership role is not about me — it’s about us as journalists rising together to defend truth and professionalism,” she said.