dmatekenya/chichewa-machine-translation huggingface dataset:
English: On the contrary, many would choose city or urban life where houses are decent and big, and access to social services like healthcare is easy
Chichewa: Mbali ina, ambiri akanasakha mzinda kapena moyo wakutawuni kumene nyumba ndizabwino komanso zazikulu, kupeza zinthu zofunikila monga chisamaliro cha umoyo ndichosavuta
English: However, there is one tangible reason most people love and want to associate themselves with the village life. It is a celebration of their cultural activities and childhood experiences
Chichewa: Komabe, pali chifukwa chimodzi chogwilika anthu ambiri amakonda komanso kuziika ndi moyo wakumudzi, ndizikondwelero za chikhalidwe chawo ndi chikumbukilo chaubwana wawo
English: Oh yes, there is no beautiful feeling to cherish than one’s social and cultural activities that made their childhood terrific and memorable
Chichewa: Inde, palibe choposa chosangalatsa mtima ngati kukumbikila kuposa zochita ndi chikhalidwe zimene zinapangitsa umwana kukhala wabwino ndiwosaiwalika
English: Visiting one’s old school and village, chatting with old childhood friends or enjoying local food such as mice (mbewa), ziwala/zitete (grasshoppers) and social activities are some of the things that made our childhood exciting and memorable
Chichewa: Kuyendela sukulu yako yakale ndi kumudzi, kucheza ndi anzako akuumwana kapena kudya zakudya zachikhalidwe monga mbewa, ziwala/zitete ndi zochitika zamakhalidwe ndi zinthu zina zimene zinapangitsa umwana wathu kukhala wosangalatsa komanso osaiwalika
English: Food has a powerful cultural value which connects us to our childhood back in the days as well as village life
Chichewa: Chakudya chili ndi mphamvu muchikhalidwe chathu zimene zimatilumikizitsa ndi umwana wathu masiku amanewo komanso umuyo wathu wakumudzi
English: “In ancient history, our forefathers were preserving local food in anticipation of a looming hunger,” recounted Gogo Nansani of Mvera in Dowa
Chichewa: Mu mbili yakale, makolo anthu amasunga chakudya poyembekezela njala,” akakumbukila gogo nansani aku mvera boma la dowa
English: Unlike in the village where food stuffs like meat and vegetables are dried up to be preserved, people in urban areas use refrigerators today to preserve food for future use
Chichewa: Kusiyana ndi kumudzi kumene zakudya ngati nyama ndi masamba zimaumitsidwa kuti zisungike, anthu ku madela akutawuni amagwilitsa ntchito ma filiji lero kuti asunge chakudya kuti azagwilitse ntchito mtsogolo
English: Again, memories are still fresh how I used to drink cold water and thobwa (sweet brew) kept in beautifully moulded mtsuko (pot) in my village. Of course, I had also enjoyed masese (local opaque beer) kept in mbiya (big pot) at Chimphale’s local drinking spot in Lavu village
Chichewa: Mobweleza, chikumbutso chikalipo m’mene ndimkamwera madzi ozizila komanso thobwa losungidwa mtsuko wowumbidwa bwino ku mudzi kwathu. Ndamwapo masese wosungidwa mu mbiya pa malo omwela mowa achimphale mu mudzi wa lavu
English: Chimanga chokazinga (roasted maize), which we used to carry to school in plastic bottles, particularly those of cooking oil such as Covo and Kazinga, was also popular back in the days
Chichewa: Chimanga chokazinga chimene timatengela mu botolo la pulasitiki, makamaka amafuta ophikila monga covo ndi kazinga amene anali wotchuka nthawi imeneyo
English: Unlike today where children are given snacks, juices and soft drinks to take with them to school, the old generation of 1990s and 1980s used to eat and brag with roasted maize during break time
Chichewa: Kusiyana ndi lero pamene ana amapatsidwa zakudya zotolatola, zakumwa ndi zakumwa zosaledzeletsa kuti atenge kusukulu, m’badwo wa 1990 ndi 1980 amadya ndikupanga matama akamadya chimanga chokazinga pa nthawi yopuma
English: Whereas, those who were privileged to have been given or stolen some coins from their parents would buy zitumbuwa and mbajira (local pan cakes). However, those who were affording mandasi (doughnuts) and mpisu (chips) were regarded a real dons
Chichewa: Pamene, amene anali ndikuthekela kuti apatsidwa kapena kuba ndalama za ma siliva kwa makolo amatha kugula zitumbuwa ndi mbajira. Komabe, amene amakwanitsa mandasi ndi mpisu amatengedwa ngati madolo
English: During our time, wearing shoes at school during our time was not an easy feat for everyone. Majority were walking barefooted, but cladding those popular shorts with a buckle was a complete swag on its own
Chichewa: Mu nthawi yathu, kuvala nsapato ku sukulu sizanali zapafupi kwa aliyense. Gulu limayenda opanda nsapato koma kuvala makabudula otchuka okhala ndi zomangira zachitsulo kunali kutchena pakokha
English: Old school and local swag can be incomplete without the mention of the popular traditional games and dances like chibisalirano (hide and seek) among others
Chichewa: Sukulu yakale ndi zamba zakumudzi sizokwanila tikapanda kutchula masewera otchuka akumudzi ndi kuvina monga chibisalirano ndi zina
English: There were also other popular activities like see-saw, relay race and arranged fights which were organised at the end of the school terms between rival groups
Chichewa: Kunali masewela ena otchuka monga nyende, kuthamanga komanso ndewu zochita kukhonza zimene zimakhozedwa tikamatsekela sukulu pakati pamagulu opikisana
English: However, many years down the line after many people had enjoyed a blissful lifestyle packed with unique and exciting traditional activities and food, it seems most of these things are on the verge of collapsing due to rapid lifestyle changes
Chichewa: Komabe, zaka zapita pamene anthu ambiri akhala atakondwela ndi moyo wodzadza ndi zochitika zosowa ndi zosangalatsa komanso chakudya, zikuwoneka kuti zinthu zimenezi zatsala pan’gono kutha chifukwa chakusitha kwa makhalidwe
English: Today, children and families are greatly influenced by technology and foreign cultures that are fast eroding their true Malawian identity
Chichewa: Masiku ano, ana ndi mabanja akukhudzidwa kwambiri ndi zamakono komanso chikhalidwe cha maiko ena zimene zikuwononga umalawi wawo
English: For example, these days children are exposed to lifestyles they watch on TV. For example, they play video games and imitate popular cartoons like Spider Man and, Tom and Jerry
Chichewa: Mwachitsanzo, masiku ano ana akukhudzidwa ndi makhalidwe amene amaonela pa kanema. Mwachitsanzo, amaselewa masewela apakanema ndikuyesela ziboliboli monga spiderman ndi tomu ndi jeli
English: Unfortunately, when they visit their village, be it in Molele in Thyolo, Dowa’s Mbedza or Enukweni in Mzimba, they appear more Western than their fellow Malawian children in the village
Chichewa: Mwatsoka, akapita kumudzi kwawo, kaya kwa molele ku thyolo, kwa mbedza ku dowa kapena ku enukweni ku mzimba amawoneka wachizungu kuposa ana achimalawi anzawo akumudzi
English: In terms of food, our society, particularly in urban settings, is consuming more of fast processed foods. Unless it is for health grounds, a small percentage enjoy local foods
Chichewa: In terms of food, our society, particularly in urban settings, is consuming more of fast processed foods. Unless it is for health grounds, a small percentage enjoy local foods
 Kumbali ya chakudya, mumadera m’mene timakhalira, makamaka kumadela akutawini, akudya zakudya zambiri zokonzedwa mwachangu. pokhapokha ndichifukwa cha zaumoyo, gawo lochepa kwambiri limadya zakudya zopezeka zachikhalidwe
English: However, not all is lost as some individuals are dedicating their efforts towards promoting local activities and foods
Chichewa: Komabe, sikuti chilichonse chataika anthu ena akupeleka mphamvu zawo kupititsa patsogolo zochitika za lokolo ndi zakudya
English: A grouping of creatives called Kuwala has also embraced an initiative called Malawi Night to promote traditional activities like games
Chichewa: Gulu la anthu aluso lotchedwa kuwala layambitsa zochitika zotchedwa malawi night kuti apititse patsogolo zochitika za chikhalidwe monga masewela
English: When I think of a great drama performance, what quickly comes to my mind are natural abilities in actors who are able to dramatize things and draw people’s attention
Chichewa: Ndikaganiza za masewelo abwino, zimene zimabwela m’mutu mwanga ndi maluso achilengedwe awochita zisudzo amene amapangitsa sewero ndikupangitsa chidwi anthu
English: I mean the alluring power of using body language such as gestures, facial expressions and significant devices that depict elements of life or characters, bring conflicts and emotions to life
Chichewa: Ndikutathauza mphamvu yokopa anthu kugwilitsa ntchito thupi monga manja, kumaso ndi zida zimene zimaonetsa umoyo kapena umunthu, kubwelets mikangano ndi maganizo
English: However, deficit of this charming creativity in the Chichewa drama world brings into picture the gap which one John Nyanga and Eric Mabedi, Malawi’s finest drama duo of Izeki ndi Jakobo
Chichewa: koambe , kusowa kwa luso lokopa mu chichewa mu mamasewelo zimabweletsa chithuzithuzi cha kupelewela kumene john nyanga ndi eric mabedi, opanga sewelo abwino kwambiri kumalawi kuno izeki ndi jakobo
English: We must accept the fact that some people were simply born with incomparable gifts which appeal to the audience naturally. Their natural gifts such as composure and facial expression are just a wow factor in their art
Chichewa: Tikuyenela kuvomeleza kuti anthu ena anabadwa ndi maluso osiyana ndi ena amene amasangalatsa anthu mwachilengedwe. Maluso awo achilengedwe monga kuima komanso maonekedwe akhope zimakhala zodabwitsa anthu mu zaluso zawo
English: It dawned on me one day at Chichiri Shopping Mall, Blantyre, when I met the late drama legend Izeki and left me in dilemma whether he was in dramatic or serious mood. I greeted him and introduced myself as a journalist before asking for his phone number
Chichewa: Zinandidzidzimutsa tsiku lina pa malo amalonda pa chichiri ku blantyre, pamene ndinakumana ndi katswiri wopanga masewelo ndipo ndinali ndikuganiza kuti m’maganizo asewelo kapena anali akupanga zabwinobwino. Ndinampatsa moni ndi kumufotokozera kuti ndi mtolankhani ndisanafunse nambala yake ya lamya
English: However, in a flash of a moment amidst our conversation, Izeki’s gestures made me burst into laughter. And quickly he reacted: “Akulu, sizamaseratu izi.”
Chichewa: However, in a flash of a moment amidst our conversation, Izeki’s gestures made me burst into laughter. And quickly he reacted: “Komabe, pakathawi kochepa chabe tikucheza, m’mene amapangila manja izeki zinandipangitsa kuseka. Ndipo nthawi yomweyo anayakha “akulu, sizamasewelatu izi”
English: I read from his facial expression that he was serious and I had to treat our conversation as such. From this day I got to realise that there is untold power in natural abilities that can never be stopped. Izeki ndi Jakobo were a marvel to watch
Chichewa: Ndimaona m’mene kumaso kwake kukuwonekela kuti akupanga zowona ndipo kucheza kwathu kunali kwachoncho. Kuchokela tsiku limeneli ndipamene ndinadziwa kuti muli mphamvu mu maluso obadwa nawo zimene sizingaletsedwe. Izeki ndi jakobo anali wosangalatsa kuwaonelera
English: In his own image, Izeki was created as drama. The way he walked, talked or looked, he was a complete artist. One could easily burst into laughter upon seeing him
Chichewa: Maonekedwe ake, izeki anapangidwa ngati sewelo. M’mene amayendela, kuyakhula kapena maonekedwe, anali waluso wachikwanekwane. Sikumakhala kovuta munthu kuseka akamuona
English: Mazunda said: “The two were simply natural actors. During rehearsals they could display a plot, but when shooting the actual video began they will have spiced it more than expected and producers could just let them flow
Chichewa: Mazunda anati: “ awiriwa anali azisudzo woselewera mwachilengedwe. Nthawi yoyeselera amangowonetsa m’mene zikakhalire koma pojambuka kanema weniweniyo amaonjezela zina zosayembezeleka ndipo ojambula amangowasiya kuti apitilize
English: “They picked at anyone and any topic with ease; their delivery was always top-notch. The duo was a marvel to work with, extraordinary to watch, pure geniuses at what they did, and the best comic duo this country has ever produced.”
Chichewa: Amsakha wina aliyense komanso nkhani ina iliyonse mosavuta: m’mene amapangila zinthu zinali zapamwamba. Awiriwa anali osangalatsa kugwira nawo tchito, wodabwitsa kuwonelera, anzeru pazimene amachita komanso gulu labwino kambiri limene dziko lino latulutsa
English: Well, to cut the story short, it has been seven solid years and two years since the country’s arts fraternity paid its last respect to the fallen commanding drama officers of Izeki and Jakobo, respectively
Chichewa: Kufipikitsa nkhani, zakwana zaka zisanu ndi ziwiri komanso ziwiri pamene anthu aluso m’dziko muno anapeleka ulemu wawo omaliza kwa atsogoleri a zamasewelo a izeki ndi jakobo
English: Izeki died on May 22 in 2016 at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital after a long illness. Whereas Jakobo succumbed to Covid-19 related complications on August 2 2021 at Mwaiwathu Private Hospital in same commercial city of Blantyre
Chichewa: Izeki anamwalira pa 22 may mu chaka cha 2016 ku chipatala cha Queens Elizabeth central hospital atadwala nthawi yayitali. Pamene jakobo anamwalira chifukwa cha zopinga zobwela ndi covid-19 pa 2 august chaka cha 2021 ku chipatala cha mwaiwathu mzinda wamalonda omwewu wa blantyre
English: Izeki was buried at Henry Henderson Institute (HHI) Cemetery and Jakobo at Catholic Institute (CI) Cemetery in Blantyre, the city where they practiced and nurtured their comic talents
Chichewa: Izeki anaikidwa ku manda a henry henderson institute ndipo jakobo anaikidwa ku manda a catholic insititue ku blanytre, mzinda umene anapangila ndi kuphunzira maluso awo amasewelo
English: But many years since their demise, memories are still fresh about the duo’s humble beginnings and exploits at the then French Cultural Centre (FCC), where they used to organize drama performances and fill the venue for family entertainment. Indeed, people from all walks of life marveled at their ingenuity
Chichewa: Koma zaka zambiri zapita chimwalilireni koma tikukumbukilabe m’mene gululi linayambila ndi zimene anachita ku malo kumene nthawi imeneyo kumatchedwa french cultural centre kumene amapangitsa masewelo ndipo amadzadzitsa malowo kusangalatsa mabanja, inde, anthu ambiri amadabwitsika ndi maluso awo
English: There is no denying that Izeki ndi Jakobo were exceptionally good and a force of reckon if their astonishing legacy is anything to go by
Chichewa: Palibe kutsutsa kuti izeki ndi jakobo anali abwino kwambiri komanso mphamvu yoyenela kuti mbiri yodabwitsa ndiyoyenela kuti kukhala paliponse
English: Today, many years after their death, the social media is still awash with video clips of the fallen drama kings to confirm their unwavering legacy
Chichewa: Lero, zaka zambiri zatha atamwalira, tsamba la mchezo imadabwitsabe ndi kanema wa mafumu asewelowa kutsimikiza mbiri yawo
English: Frankly speaking, the duo of Izeki ndi Jakobo will indisputably go down the memory lane as one of drama powerhouses which had left an indelible gap in Malawi’s theatrical circles as far as its stage magic and popularity are concerned
Chichewa: Kuyakhula mowona mtima, gulu la izeki ndi jakobo azakambukilidwa ngati opanga masewelo amphamvu zimene zisiye mpata waukulu ku malawi pa nkhani ya masewelo komanso kutchuka kwake
English: Many drama enthusiasts in the country attest to this, describing the fallen drama legends as irreplaceable due to its profound talent
Chichewa: Ambiri okonda masewelo mu dziko muno akuvomeleza za izi,kufotokoza kuti akatswiriwa omwaliwawa sangabwezletsedwe chfukwa cha luso lawo
English: “I haven’t attended any of Izeki’s stage performances. But I can tell from the video clips that I watch on social media that he was a rare character,” says Innocent Golowa, a resident of Biwi
Chichewa: Sinawonelelepo masewelo ena aliowonsw a izeki. Koma ndikhoza kunena kuti anali wosiyana ndi ena onse powona kanema amen ndimawonela tsamba la mchezo,”akuteri innocent golowa amene amakhala kwa biwi
English: Before his death, Izeki opened a prophetic ministry called Synagogue for Hope Church in Ndirande Township, Blantyre, where he was aswering to a new title as Prophet Z
Chichewa: Asanamwalire, izeki anatsegula tchalitchi chotchedwa synagogue for hope church ku dera ndilande ku blantyre, kumene amaykha dzina latsopano lakuti pulofeti z
English: They were the first duo to adapt my book Madzi Akataika into a performance. Since then they have been entertaining the country. So, his death marked a sad chapter of comedy and drama in the country,” once said Zingani
Chichewa: Anali anthu awiri oyamba kutenga buku langa madzi akataika ndikupanga sewelo. Kuchoka pamenepo akhala akusangalatsa dziko. Ndiye, imfa yake ikutathauza gawo lomvetsa chisoni la msangulutso ndi masewelo mudziko uno,” anayakhulapo zingani
English: The duo of Izeki ndi Jakobo, which also performed alongside Kwathu Drama Group, will remain in historical books as one of the country’s flag carriers of Chichewa drama
Chichewa: Uwiri wa izeki ndi jakobo, amene amapangaso zinthu ndi gulu la masewelo la kwathu, azakhala mu mabuku kuwakumbikila ngati amene ananyamula mbendela ya dziko pa masewelo achichewa
English: “I greatly miss Izeki ndi Jakobo because their acting was funny and extraordinary. How I wish God could bring them back to continue from where they left. May their souls continue to rest in peace,” said Deliweh Mpaka, a drama
Chichewa: Ndimasowa kwambiri izeki ndi jakobo chfukwa masewelo awo anali osangalatsa komanso apamwamba. Nkanakonda mulungu akanawabweletsanso kuti azapitilize pamene anasiyila. Mizimu yawo ipitilize kuwusa ndi mtendere,” deliweh mpaka wamasewelo
English: Izeki and Jakobo had several things in common, which cemented their duo and personal relationship. They were born in the same month and year. Izeki was born on June 13 1963, whereas Jakobo was born eight days later on June 21 1963
Chichewa: Izeki ndi jakobo anali nd zinthu zambiri zofanana, zimene zinalimbitsa uwiri wawo komanso ubwenzi. Anabadwa mwezi ndi chaka chofanana. Izeki anabadwa pa 3 june 1963, pamene jakobo anabadwa masiku asanu ndi atatu otsatila pa 21 june 1963
English: It is not in my nature to bring issues so personal to me on such platforms. But at times you reach a level where one plus one does not add to two
Chichewa: Sindine munthu womabweletsa zinthu zaanthu ena ngati zimenezi pa malo ngati awa. Koma nthawi zina umafika pa mlingo pamene kuphatikiza chimodzi ndi chimodzi sikupanga ziwiri
English: Firstly, I have to admit my flaws before you appreciate. Like a majority of we men (not women), I am adventurous in other ways. When opportunities arise and when interest is insurmountable, I veer off the course and seek the goods elsewhere
Chichewa: Choyamba, ndikuyenela kuvomeleza zolakwa zanga musanandiyamikile. Ngati amuna ambiri, ndine oyendayenda mu njira zina. Pamene mwayi wapezeka ndipo kufuna ndikosaletseka, ndimasiya ndikusaka katundu kwina
English: That is not to say I don’t appreciate the dish I have at home. Neither can I say the value of the quality is diminishing
Chichewa: Sindikunena kuti sindimayamikila chakudya chomwe ndili nacho kunyumba. Komanso sindinganene kuti ubwino wake ukutsika
English: Far from it. I am still a committed and loving husband. And when it comes to the bedroom service, I have never been questioned during our 13-year-old marital union
Chichewa: Kutali kwa za izi, ndine bambo odzipeleka komanso okonda. Ndipo ikafika ku ntchito yakuchipinda, sindinafunsidwepo mu zaka khumi ndi zitatu zimene ndakhalamu banja
English: But as all manly beings sometimes behave, I have recently found myself in the arms of some respectable beautiful damsel
Chichewa: Koma m’mene amachitila anthu amuna, posachedwapa ndazipeza ndekha m’manja mwa mtsikana wolemekeza wokongola
English: I must confess the three-week romantic ride that we have gone through has been dizzying. This lady has given me the kind of services and treatment any man would dream of
Chichewa: Ndilape kuti masabata atatu achikondi chimene tadutsamo akhala abwino. Mkazi ameneyu wandipatsa chisamaliro ndi kundithandiza m’mene mwamuna aliyense angaganizile
English: Now you may be wondering why I am writing you with all the superlatives I am heaping on my new catch
Chichewa: Tsopano mwina mukudabwa chifukwa chani ndikukulembelani ndi zapamwamba ndikukuwunjikilani za zonwe ndapeza tsopanoli
English: A few days ago, my wife was celebrating her birthday. Somehow I found myself checking the WhatsApp status of my secret dish
Chichewa: Masiku angapo apitawo, mkazi wanga amasangalira tsiku lake lakubadwa. Mwina ndinapezeka kuti ndikuwona pa sitetasi ya pa tsamba la mchezo la chakudya changa chamchibisilachi
English: What my eyes met there was appalling. There she was; my wife in her unmistakable form. The accompanying caption showed the two have a tight connection for sure. I resisted the temptation to ask any question
Chichewa: Zimene maso anga anawona zinali zodabwitsa. Awa, akazi anga m’mene alili. Mawu olembedwa motsatana chinthuzicho zimaonetsa kutu awiriwa pali kugwilizana ndithu. Ndinazibweza kuyesa kufunsa funso
English: I now come before your widely revered counsel. Should I ask her about their relationship? Should I just silently walk away? Should I stick here and continue enjoying this grace?
Chichewa: Tsopano ndikubwera kwainu pauphungu wolemekezeka kwambiri. Ndikuyenela kumufunsa za ubwezni wawo? Kodi ndikuyenela kuchoka mwakachetechete? Kodi ndiyenela kukhalabe ndikupitiliza kusangalala ndi chisomochi?
English: You could be harder than this! You mean, for 13 solid years you don’t know your wife’s friends? That is being naïve!
Chichewa: Ukuyenela kukhala olimba kuposa apa! Ukutathauza kuti kwa zaka khumi ndi zitatu sukudziwa azinzako a mkazi wako?kumeneko ndikupanda pake!
English: And then, are you sure this side chick of yours doesn’t know who her friend’s husband is?
Chichewa: Komanso, ukutsimikiza kuti mkazi wako wanseliyu sakudziwa kuti mwamuna wanzakeyu ndi ndani?
English: It never gets curioser! This side chick knows you. I will tell you just one thing: You are just delaying her chances of finding a proper man for her to marry
Chichewa: Chidwi sichingapose apa. Mkazi wachibwenziyu amakudziwani. Ndikuwuzani chithu chimodzi. Mukungomuchedwetsa mwayi opeza mwamuna wabwino wakuti amukwatire
English: I just don’t know what men look for. The other day, you can imagine, these other two men were pestering some lady that she should share contacts of her friend so that she can become their girlfriend! Imagine. For that matter, the woman they wanted for girlfriend was married to another man!
Chichewa: Sindimadziwa kuti amuna amafuna chani. Tsiku lina, ukhoza kungoganiza, abambo ena awiri amavutitsa mkazi wina kuti awapatse nambala ya lamya ya nzake wamzimayiyo kuti akhale chibwezi chawo! Tangoganizani. Komanso, mzimayi amafuna kuti akhale chibwenziyo anali pabanja ndi mwamuna wina
English: What do men really want apart from courting disaster? Now you are in this circle and you have the nerve to ask me if you have to leave!
Chichewa: Kodi amuna amafuna chani kupatula tsoka pachibwenzi? Tsopano uli mu gulu ndipo ukundifunsa ngati ukuyenela kuchoka!
English: You are in a trap and you will be caught. By putting the photos on her status, she obviously knew you were one of the people who would see them
Chichewa: Uli mu gonga ndi ugwidwa. Poika zinthuzi zimenezo pa tsamba la mchezo yake, amadziwa kuti ukhala m’modzi mwa anthu amene awone
English: To leave both would be foolhardy. Last time I checked, the only reason a marriage should end is adultery. So, it can only be your wife who can move the courts for you to let her go
Chichewa: Kuti uchoke kukhla kupusa. Mukudziwa kwanga, chifukwa chokhacho banja likuyenela kutha ndichifukwa cha chigololo. Ndiye, zikhoza kukhala mkazi wanu amene akhoza kupita ku bwalo lamilandu kuti inu mumusiye
English: The dawn of technology, which has given birth to several digital innovations such as the popular Internet and social media, has brought about a significant impact on our society
Chichewa: Kubwela kwa zaluso, kwabweletsa zinthu zimbiri zaluso la za digito monga makina a inteneti wodziwika komanso tsamba la mchezo. Zakhudza kwakukulu m’mene timakhalira
English: Of particular interest is the effect which the use of these technologies is having on certain cultural values and customs that have been practiced for a long time in our societies
Chichewa: Chopatsa chidwi ndi zotsatira zakugwilitsa ntchito zaluso zikukhala nazo pa zimene timaziika pamtima zachikhalidwe ndi miyambo zimene zakhala zikuchitika kwa nthawi yayitali mu magulu athu
English: For example, the use of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tik-Tok have tremendously changed the way families and relationships operate
Chichewa: Mwachitsanzo, kugwilitsa ntchito masamba a mchenzo monga whatsapp, facebook, twitter, instagram ndi tiktok zasitha kwambiri m’mene mabanja ndi maubwenzi amayendela
English: Today, our society has witnessed a significant shift on the way people used to interact. Perhaps, people, especially the youth, these days are more into Internet and social media-supported tête-à-têtes than physical ones
Chichewa: Masiku, magulu a anthu awona kusitha kwakukulu m’mene anthu amachezela. Mwina chifukwa, anthu makamaka achinyamata masiku ano akumakonda makina a inteneti ndi kucheza kwa pamasamba a mchezo osati kukamana
English: New way of life: Young people sit together but ignoring each other while interacting with others via smartphones
Chichewa: Umoyo wina watsopano: anthu ambiri achichepele amakhala limodzi koma osalabadilana pamene akucheza ndi ena pa lamya
English: Apart from helping people to get news and information on what is trending in our society, social media is supporting people to cultivate and raise friendships online than in physical realm
Chichewa: Kupatula kuthandizi ena kupeza nkhani ndi mauthenga azimene zikuchitika m’madela, tsamba la mchezo likuthsandiza anthu kupanga chinzake pa makina a intaneti kuposa kukumana
English: Today, people in public spaces, including minibuses, are always glued to their smartphones chatting with friends, ignoring those sitting next to them
Chichewa: Masiku anu, anthu mu malo agulu kuphatikiza mu minibasi, amakhala ali pa lamya yawo kucheza ndi anzawo, kusalabadila amene akhala nawo chifupi
English: Indeed, fast-disappearing are the old habits and days where people could meet a stranger on the street and ignite a fruitful conversation as social media has hijacked all those perfect moments
Chichewa: Inde, zimene zikupita mwasanga ndi makwalidwe akale ndi masiku kumene anthu amatha kukumana ndi munthu wachilendo mu nsewu ndikuyamba kukambilana zinthu zakupsya chifukwa tsamba la mchezo latenga nthawi yabwino imene ija
English: There is no denying that today it is proving extremely hard to initiate a conversation with a person, especially women, in public spaces because people are always busy talking to someone on their WhatsApp or simply browsing exciting content on the Instagram, Tik Tok or YouTube
Chichewa: Palibe kukana kuti lero ndizovuta kwambiri kuyambitsa macheza ndi munthu, makamaka nzimayi, m’malo a gulu chfukwa nthawi zonse amakhala otanganidwa kuyakhula ndi munthu wina pa whatsapp kapena kuona zinthu zosangalatsa pa instagram, tiktok kapena youtube
English: Dare to speak to a nice-looking guy or beautiful woman in public today and see if they are going to give you full attention
Chichewa: Yesela kuyakhula ndi mwamuna wooneka bwino kapena mkazi wokongola pa gulu masiku ano ndipo uwone ngati akulabadile konse
English: Unless it is your godsend day where you have been charmed by your ancestors to meet your promised friend whose phone is off due to the popular national wide electricity blackout or load-shedding, you are likely going to see them turning to their phones now and again
Chichewa: Pokhapokha likhale tsiku lako la mwayi pamene wayendeledwa ndi makolo kuti ukumane ndi nzako olonjedwa amene lamya yake yazima chifukwa cha kuthima magetsi kwa dziko lonse, zikhoza kuchitika kuti ukhoza kuwaona akuyan’gana lamya yawo patalipatali
English: If truth be told, the coming of digital technology, particularly the social media, has brought about a significant change in the way people interact
Chichewa: Chilungamo chinenedwe, kubwera ka zaluso, makamaka tsamba la mchezo, kwabweletsa kusitha kwakukulu m’mene anthu amachezela
English: For example, people are not giving full attention to physical conversations with their counterparts as they are always obsessed with their smartphones
Chichewa: Mwachitszanzo, anthu salabadila kwambiri kucheza kwa pamaso ndi maso ndi anzawo chifukwa amakhala kuti ndiwokonda lamya yawo
English: However, for someone with serious intentions like proposing, this tendency has proved to be a total turnoff. There is nothing that is boring as talking to someone whose attention is on their phones. Let alone approach someone who is putting on earpieces!
Chichewa: Koambe, kwa amene ali ndi zolinga monga kufunsila, khalidwe ili limakhala lochotsa chidwi. Palibe chinthu chosasangalatsa ngati kuyakhulana ndi munthu amene chidwi chake chili pa lamya. Nde akhaleso kuti waika zovelera m’makutu
English: Unlike in the past, where people could bump into a woman in public and propose right away or schedule a follow-up meeting to get to know them better, today what people are asking are WhatsApp numbers and handles of their social media accounts
Chichewa: Kusiyana ndi kale, pamene anthu amakumana ndi mkazi pa gulu ndikufunsira pompo kapena kugwilizana kuti akumanenso kuti adziwane bwinobwino, masiku ano chimene anthu akufunsa ndi nambala ya whatsapp kapena maina apa tsamba la mchezo
English: While some sections of society commended the coming of technology which has simplified communication, some believe that it has culturally weakened relationships and bonds, particularly among family members
Chichewa: Pamene magawo ena anthu anayamikila kubwela kwa tekinoloje kumene kuphweketsa kulumikizana, ena amakhalupilira kuti kunafowoketsa maubwenzi pachikhalidwe ndi umodzi, makamaka anthu abanja limodzi
English: “Social media has diluted our cultural customs which provided strong foundations for our existence
Chichewa: “Masamba a mchezo asungunula chikhalidwe ndi miyambo zimene zinali msanamila yolimba yakupezeka kwathu
English: For example, in the past, before social media, family members could easily visit each other to spend quality time together and share old stories of sweet childhood
Chichewa: Mwachitsanzo, kalekale, kusanabwele masamba a mchenzo, anthu pabanja amayendelana ndikukhala ndi nthawi yabwino limodzi ndikugawana nkhani zakalekale za umwana wawo
English: Sometimes, you could even visit some of the historic places like your old primary school where you used to enjoy certain things to enrich your memories
Chichewa: Nthawi zina, umatha kuyendela malo okumbila zinthu monga ku sukulu yako yapulayimale kumene umasangala ndi zinthu zina kuti ukumbukile bwino
English: But today, some simply dial a WhatsApp video call to chat with their relations in the village. Of course, this has provided an instant mode of communication, but nothing can beat the value of physical interaction,” said Prisca Golowa, a resident of Biw, Lilongwe
Chichewa: Koma masiku ano, umangoimba lamya wa kanema kuti uyakhulane ndi achibale kumudzi. Inde, izi zabweletsa njira yolumukizilana yachangu, koma palibe chimene chipose kufunika kwa kucheza maso ndi maso,” anatero prisca golowa, okahala kwa biwi ku lilongwe
English: She said physical interaction among family members brings about rife and lively interface, which does not only create delightful moments but also cements relationships
Chichewa: Ananena kuti kucheza maso ndi maso pakati pa abale kumabweletsa moyo ndi malo osangalatsa, zimene sizibweletsa chisangalalo chokha komanso kulimbitsa maubwenzi
English: She advised: “Social media should not make people lose their cultural values. They should still visit each other physically to interact and enjoy moments together
Chichewa: Analangiza kuti:” tsamba la mchezo silikuyenela kuwapangitsa anthu kuyiwala kufunika kwa chikhalidwe chawo. Akuyenelabe kumayendelana ndi kumacheza maso ndi maso ndikusangalala limodzi
English: For example, people should go to the village to visit their old friends and enjoy the local foods they used to eat when they were young
Chichewa: Mwachitsanzo, anthu azipita kumudzi kukaona anzawo akalekale ndilkusangalala ndi chakudya chachikhalidwe chimene amadya ali achichepele
English: They should visit their grandmothers and ask them to re-count those interesting stories and tales they used to tell them
Chichewa: Akuyenela kukawona agogo awo akazi ndikuwafunsa kuti afotokozenso nkhani zosangalatsa ndi thano zimeen amkawafotokozera
English: When it comes to courtship or managing relationships people in the past were on record to have been writing funny and exciting love letters and sending each other still photos either by hand or post office
Chichewa: Zikafika podziwana ndi maubwenzi, anthu kalekale zimanenedwa kuti amakhala akulemba makalata oseketsa ndi makalata osangalatsa achikondi komanso kutumizilana zinthuzi pamanja kapena kotumizila zinthu
English: Letters with such powerful disclaimer or opening taglines like “Kiss to Kiss” or “Open with smiles (mwetumwetu)” were the order of the day
Chichewa: Makalata amakhala ndi uthenga wamphamvu kapena mawu oyambila “kiss to kiss” kapena mwetumwetu zinali m’chimake nthawi imeneyo
English: However, the modern generation has different school of thought on handling things such as relationships
Chichewa: koma , m’badwo uno uli maganizo osiyana m’mene angapangile zinthu monga maubwenzi
English: They argue social media has simplified the way of life. With a simple click on the phone, then boom! You are able to stalk a woman or man and get to know them fully, including their relationship status, on social media
Chichewa: Amanena kuti masamba a mchezo anaphweketsa m’mene timakhalira m’moyomu. Ndikudina pa lamya, kena basi! Umatha kumuona mkazi kapena mwamuna ndikuwadziwa bwinobwino kuphatikiza ngati ali paubwenzi kapena ayi, pa masamba a mchezo
English: The advent of online dating sites has also made life easier for some love seekers. “We are living in the modern times and we must accept that because things will not always be the same
Chichewa: Kubwela kwa malo masamba opezera abwenzi pa internet kwapangitsa moyo kukhala wosavuta kwa amene akusaka chikondi.” tiikukhala mu nyengo yamakono ndipo tikuyenela kuvomeleza kuti zinthu sizidzakhalanso chimodzimodzi
English: For example, internet is helping us to get in touch with our loved ones, including girlfriends and boyfriends, instantly
Chichewa: Mwachitsanzo, makina a intaneti akutithandzia kulumikizana ndi okondedwa athu, kuphatikiza zibwenzi mwachangu
English: These days, you do not have to wait for two or three weeks to hear from your loved one who is far away through a mail, but right away on WhatsApp or Facebook
Chichewa: Masiku ano, sukuyenela kudikila masabata awiri kapena atatu kuti umve kuchokela kwa okondedwa amene sali pafupi ndi kotengela kalata, koma pompo pa whatsapp ndi facebook
English: However, some commentators warned that the Internet boom has birthed online scammers who are taking advantage to swindle unsuspecting people and bring about mental health issues
Chichewa: Koma, oyakhula ena achenjeza kuti kubwera kwa makina a intaneti kwabweletsa anthu okuba pa makina a intaneti amene akutengelapo mwayi kubela anthu osalakwa ndikubweletsa matenda a m’maganizo
English: There is always a thin line between comedy and reality. It is even more difficult to separate the two when the name NyaUyu pops up. The female comedian is known for various social media stunts that leave her fans with divided opinions
Chichewa: Pali kusiyana kwa sewelo ndi zenizeni. Ndizovuta kwambiri kusiyanitsa zinthu ziwirizi pamen mawu oti nyauyu abwela.
English: She wrote on her Facebook page: “…some quarters were appreciating what I was offering on the professional and business level, others whom I approached saw it as a chance to take advantage and disrespect me as a woman by asking for sex just so they be of help
Chichewa: Analemba tsamba la mchezo la facebook:”.... Anthu ena amayamikila zimene ndimapeleka pa ukadaulo komanso zamalonda, ena amene anandifikila anawona kuti ndi mwayi kutengelapo mwayi kundichotsa ulemu ngati mzimayi pondifunsa zogonana kuti athandizike
English: “I remember someone saying he can give me K10 million if I went to his room to have sex with him. I looked at this man and said so the idea doesn’t matter all you want is sex? And without shame, he said yes
Chichewa: Ndikukumbikila munthu wina akunena akhoza kundipatsa 10 miliyoni kwacha ngati ndingapite kuchipinda ndikugonana ndi iye, ndinamuyan’gana mwamuna ameneyu ndipo ndinamuuza kuti maganizowa sakuwaona ofunika koma chimene akufuna ndi kugonana? Ndipo mopanda manyazi anati eya
English: The post has since attracted mixed reactions. Some of the fans sympathised with her while others doubted the validity of her claims
Chichewa: Zimene anaikazi zabweletsa maganizo osiyanasiyana. Omutsatila ena akugwilizana naye pomwe ena akukaikila ngati zomwe akunena ndizowona
English: “From the time I won this competition, I have had stints with three managements. Two of them tied sponsorship to sex,” she tells Society
Chichewa: Kuchokera pamene ndinapambana mpikisanowi, ndakhala ndi oyendetsa atatu. Awiri aiwo amafuna kundithandizaku kukhalepo chifukwa chakugonana,” anawuza anthu
English: “One of them made numerous promises, such as sponsorship for record deals, music production and music performances. I refused. And they bolted with the deals,” she adds. The musician claims that this experience has affected her psychologically
Chichewa: M’modzi mwa iwo analonjeza zambiri monga chithandizo cha chonjambula nyimbo, kupanga nyimbo komanso kuimba nyimbo, ndinakana. Ndipo analepheletsa izi,” anawonjezela. Woyimbayu akunena kuti zimene zinamusokoneza m’maganizidwe
English: “That is the reason why I wrote on my Facebook page as a way of letting out something that has been eating me up for a long time. Why should I offer sex just for someone to help record my music?” she wonders
Chichewa: Ichi ndi chifukwa ndinalemba pa tsamba langa la mchezo la facebook ngati njira imodzi yotulutsila chimene chakhala kundisautsa kwa nthawi yayitali. Ndichifukwa chani munthu akundiuza kuti tigonane kuti andithandize kujambula nyimbo?” akudabwa
English: She, however, says most female artists do not officially report such offences to the union for proper redress
Chichewa: Komabe, akuti oimba ambiri achikazi samanena zinthu ngati zimenezi ku bungwe kuti awathandize
English: “As a union, we have platforms for musicians to report such exploitation. But at the moment, we don’t have any reported cases. We hear of such cases as rumours,” she says. Manong’a says most female artists remain in hiding for fear of victimization
Chichewa: Ngati bungwe, tili ndi malo a woimba kofotokozera kupezeleledwa kumeneku. Koma pakali pano, palibe nkhani ili yonse imene tinafotokozeledwa. Timamva nkhani zimenezi ngati mphekesela chabe,” akutero. Maonga akuti oimba ambiri amakhala ndi mantha kuwopa kukhala okhuzidwa
English: “But it is advisable to report to us as a union. We are their voice on various violations, including sexual abuse. They don’t need to fight such battles alone because it may expose them to further abuse,” she says
Chichewa: Koma ndi zoyenela kukafotoza kwa ife ngati bungwe. Ndife liwu ku zophwanya lamulo zambiri kuphatika nkhaza zogonana. Zakuyenela kulimbana nazo okha chifukwa zikhoza kuwaika chachiopsezo chozunzidwaso,” akutero
English: “I have come to realise why most people don’t come out when they face such, it’s because people fight the victims. It’s also sad that for me it’s fellow women who have come out so negative about it,” she says
Chichewa: Ndafika podziwa chifukwa anthu ambiri samabwela poyela akakumana ndi zimenezi, ndichifukwa anthu amalimbana ndi okhudzidwawo. Ndizomvetsa chisoniso kuti amayiso amene amakhala ndi maganizo olakwika pa izi,” akutero
English: Sexual Harassment, if tolerated for the sake of fame, may entrap women in a cycle of abuse, and give birth to degraded self-esteem and self-worth, from which they may never heal
Chichewa: Kuchitidwa chipongwe zogonana, kuzivomeleza izi chifukwa chakutchuka, zikhoza kuwasiya amayi ndi kuzunzidwa, komanso kubweletsa kudziwonela pansi ndi kuzichepetsa zimene sangachile.
English: Women may be at risk of negative coping mechanisms such as self-destructive behaviour, substance abuse or even suicidal ideations,” he says
Chichewa: Amayi akhoza kukhala pachiwopsezo kukhala ndi njila zolakwika za zothanilana nazo monga khalidwe loziwononga, kugwilitsa ntchito makhwala molakwika kapena kukhala ndi maganizo ozipha,” akutero
English: “In 2019 or thereabouts, there were two judgements of the High Court of Malawi to the effect that there is no need for corroboration in sexual offences to have a conviction
Chichewa: Mu chaka cha 2019 kapena nthawi imeneyi, panali zigamulo ziwiri ku bwalo la milandu lalikulu kuzotsatira kuti palibe kugwilizana pa milandu yogonana popeleka chigamulo
English: The learned Justices opined that historically women were disadvantaged by the rule on corroboration because they were not believed…. In short, the lady had all the rules at her disposal
Chichewa: Kuphunzila zigamulo m’mbuyomu zimaganizila kuti amayi kalekale zimawaipila by lamulo lokhudza kugwirizana chifukwa samakhulupildwa….mwachidule, amayi anali ndi malamulo onse kuti akhoza kugwilitsa ntchito
English: She says, as such, the ministry is in the process of developing a Sexual Harassment Policy to establish reporting structures and mechanisms of dealing with the vice
Chichewa: Akuti, chifukwa cha izi, unduna ukupanga lamilo lokhuzidwa kuzunzidwa zokhudza zogonana kuti akhazikitse njira zonenela kuthana ndi khalidwe loipali
English: She said: “Despite awareness campaigns on sexual harassment, there seem to be some cases that go unreported
Chichewa: Ananena kuti:” ngakhale kuti kwachita ma kampeni ozindilitsa za kuchitidwa chipongwe pa nkhani zokhudza kugonana, pali nkhani zina zimene sizifotokozedwa
English: There is a morbid and yet fascinating joke about coffin makers that goes around on social media and in other gatherings, where people have intercourse
Chichewa: Pali thabwala yosakhala bwino koma yodabwitsa yokhudza anthu opanga mabokosi imene imazungulila pa tsamba la mchezo ndi muzochitika zina, kumene anthu amagonana
English: The line often goes: Imagine the prayers of a coffin maker each night when they go to sleep. Indeed, it is not easy to stand in the shoes of someone who makes a living out of death
Chichewa: Mawuwa ndi otere: ganizilani pemphero la opanga mabokosi usiku wina uliwonse akamagona. Inde, sichinthu chapafupi kuganizila m’mapazi amunthu amene amadalira imfa kuti tithandizike
English: A coffin maker sees death besides its callousness and brutality. To them, death is something that puts food on their table and they cannot live without it
Chichewa: Opanga mabokosi amaoa imfa pambali kuti ilibe chisoni ndi nkhanza. Kwa iwo, imfa ndichithu chimene chimabweletsa chakudya pa tebulo lawo ndipo sangakhale opanda iyo
English: The point I am trying to make here is that, in order to understand certain things, we must try and imagine ourselves in the shoes of those who are on the other side
Chichewa: Zimene ndikufuna kufotokoza ndi zakuti, ndicholinga kuti timvetsetse zinthu zina, tikuyenela kuyesela ndi kuziganizila ife m’malo mwa amene zikuwachitikila
English: For most of us, the Covid pandemic, for example, was something that should have never happened. It was the worst experience in recent human history, where we saw hundreds of people losing their lives every day to the pandemic
Chichewa: Kwa ambiri a ife, mlili wa covid, mwachitsanzo sichinthu chimene chiyamayenela kuchitika. Inali nthawi yowawa ndi mbili ya anthu, pamene anthu amamwalira tsiku ndi tsiku chifukwa cha mliliwu
English: But for a coffin maker, they may also recall that time as the period in which they made a fortune. Some finished their building projects and others were able to boost their businesses because death was plenty and they made profits
Chichewa: Koma kwawopanga mabokosi, azakumbukila kuti inali nthawi imene anapanga ndalama zambiri. Ene anamaliza zitukuko zawo zomanga nyumba ndipo ena anapititsa patali malonda awo chifukwa cha kuchuluka kwa imfa ndipo anapindula
English: Defining something as good or bad directly depends on which side of the table you are sitting
Chichewa: Kufotokoza chinthu kuti ndichabwino kapena choipa zimatengela kuti uli mbali iti
English: Now think about the business of selling coffins as a metaphor for the dirty game we call African politics
Chichewa: Tsopano ganizilani kuti malonda ogulitsa mabokosi kufananiza masewela woipa a ndale za ku afilika
English: In a country like ours, it is only wise for the powerless to regard politicians in power as coffin makers
Chichewa: Dziko ngati lathuli, ndizanzeru kwa anthu opanda mphamvu kuganizila andale olamula ngati opanga mabokosi
English: These are people who thrive on the suffering of the masses. What are problems to most of us are actually opportunities to these people
Chichewa: Awa ndi anthu amene amachita bwino chifukwa cha kuvutika kwa anthu. Amene ndi mavuto kwa ife ndi mwayi kwa anthu amenewa
English: If we lived in a country where everything was in order, politicians would not be relevant, and they know it
Chichewa: Tinakakhala mu dziko limene chilichonse chinali m’malo ake, andale sakanakhala ofunika, ndipo amadziwa izi
English: Our politicians benefit from our suffering, and that is why they do not want to see an end to most of the problems that we could have dealt away with by now
Chichewa: Andalewa amapindula ndi kuvutika kwathu, ndipo ndichifukwa samafuna kuona mavuto akutha amene tikanathana nawo kufika pano
English: If you remember correctly, politicians made a lot of money during the Covid pandemic in allowances and other means. There are some who even stole billions of kwacha and they were never taken to task
Chichewa: Ngati mukumbukila bwino, andale anapanga ndalama zambiri nthawi ya mlili wa covid polandila malipilo ndi zinja zina. Pali ena amene anabaso mabiliyoni a ndalama ndipo sanayimbidwe mlandu
English: Believe me that even cyclones Anna and Freddy were payoff points for some of our leaders and they made fortunes out of our deaths
Chichewa: Ndikhulupileni kuti ngakhale chimphepo cha anna ndi freddy anali malo olandilira a atsogoleri athu ndipo anapeza chuma chifukwa cha imfa
English: Even the hunger that we fail to address in this country is something that benefits politicians, and we must not dream of achieving food security anytime soon
Chichewa: Ngakhale njala imene timakanika kuthana nayo mu dziko muno ndi chithu chimene chimapindulila andalem ndipo tisalote kuti zitakwanitsa kukhala ndi chakudya chokwanila chapompano
English: As we speak, Admarc is said to be out of stock as it sold most of its maize to private traders just some months ago
Chichewa: Pamene tikuyakhula pano, admarc ikuti chimanga chatha chifukwa inagulitsa chimanga chake chambiri kwa anthu amalonda miyezi ingapo yapitayo
English: Some investigators have speculated that the sales were deliberate and that the company will soon buy the same maize from these traders at a high price using our taxes
Chichewa: Wofufuza ena akuti kugulitsidwa kwa chimangaku kunali kwa dala ndikuti kampaniyi izagula pompano chimanga chomwecho kwa wogulitsa pamtengo wokwela kugwilitsa ntchito misokho yathu
English: And as you may rightly guess, most of these traders are politically connected (to be politically correct), or they are politicians (to be blunt)
Chichewa: Ndipo m’mene mungaganizile molondola, ambiri ogulitsa ndi kugulawa ndiwolumikizana ndi andale kapana ndi andale
English: They know that the only way to make money is to create a situation where some Malawians have to die. History has it that most of those who have made supernormal fortunes did that in times of crises
Chichewa: Amadziwa kuti njira yokhayo yopangila ndalama ndikupanga mchitidwe umene amalawi ena akuyenela kufa. Mbili yawonetsa kuti ambiri mwa ena amene analemela kwambiri analemela nthawi ya zovuta
English: For years, most naïve Malawians have asked why a country like ours – blessed with myriad natural resources – fails to feed itself
Chichewa: Kwa zaka, amalawi ambiri osazindikila amfusa kuti ndichifukwa chani dziko ngati lathuli- lodalitsika ndi zinthu zambiri za chilengedwe- limakanika kudzidyetsa lokha