By Malawi News Agency

Copyright mwnation

Sub-Traditional Authority (ST/A) Mwang’onga of Rumphi has warned tobacco farmers against employing children, saying the tendency denies them access to education.

The chief, who is a retired primary education adviser, said education transforms people’s lives and is even important for those engaged in farming and business.

“Education opens many doors for people and is key to doing well in farming or any other business,” he said.

Mwang’onga was speaking on Sunday during celebrations marking his elevation to ST/A and urged parents working on tobacco farms to ensure their children attend school.

On his part, Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe, who graced the occasion, urged traditional leaders under his jurisdiction to focus on advancing their subjects’ interests rather than collecting bribes.

Speaking on behalf of Rumphi District Council, principal human resource officer Allan Nyirenda, reminded communities to resolve chieftaincy disputes through senior traditional leaders, stressing that the district commissioner’s office has no mandate to appoint chiefs.

He also called for unity and collaboration among communities, chiefs and government for the area to achieve meaningful development.

Jonas Themba, a community member from T/A Chikulamayembe, urged traditional leaders to encourage parents to send their children to school instead of estates or farms to work.

“There is need to formulate by-laws to fine parents or guardians who allow children to work in tobacco farms,” he said.