By Evance Kapito

Copyright faceofmalawi

Born in October 1988 in Kachipeya Village, Traditional Authority Kachere in Dedza District, Alfred Ruwan Gangata has risen from humble beginnings to become one of Malawi’s youngest business moguls and now, a rising political leader.

Gangata began his entrepreneurial journey in the early 2010s when he founded Masters Security Services with only about K100,000 in start-up capital. What started as a small security firm has since grown into a diversified conglomerate the Masters Group of Companies encompassing Masters Borehole Drilling, Masters Concrete Construction, Fredlines General Dealers, among other ventures.

Through these enterprises, Gangata claims to have created thousands of jobs for Malawian youth, earning a reputation as a self-made businessman who leads from the front.

His influence soon extended into sports, where he established Masters Security Football Club, a team that competed in the TNM Super League and even represented Malawi in the CAF Confederation Cup. Gangata also sponsored the Southern Region Football League with a K10.5 million package, one of the largest private football sponsorships at the time a move that underscored his passion for youth empowerment and sports development.

Academically, Gangata holds a Degree in Business Administration from the University of Lilongwe and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration (Management Strategy) at the University of Malawi E-Campus. He believes his studies complement his entrepreneurial background, shaping his leadership style around accountability, efficiency, and results-oriented management.

In politics, Gangata joined the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), quickly climbing the ranks thanks to his youthful energy and proven business record. In February 2024, he was elected DPP Vice President for the Central Region, signaling the party’s renewed focus on attracting young, business-minded leaders.

His political rise reached a new milestone in October 2025, when President Arthur Peter Mutharika appointed him Minister of State in the Office of the President.

Speaking after his swearing-in, Gangata described his appointment as “a victory for the youth of Malawi” and pledged to bring business discipline and innovation to public administration.

“With my background in business, I will run this ministry like a business that delivers profit, not losses,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to efficiency, accountability, and youth empowerment.

Gangata has also called for unity and collective effort, stressing that his success will depend on teamwork and trust.

“I will serve with integrity, with commitment, and with the best interest of Malawians at heart,” he declared.

Beyond business and politics, Gangata is a family man, married with children.

Congratulations to Alfred Gangata on his appointment as Minister of State.

Compiled by Hastings Msosa