In recognising the important role the servicemen and women play in protecting the citizenry and the country, The Bank of the Nation, National Bank of Malawi (NBM) Plc has donated K8.8 million to the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) for the 2024 military drill competition to take place at the start of May.
The donation is NBM Plc’s benevolent response to MDF’s financial need towards a competition organised for the soilders scheduled for next month, which will be held at the Malawi Armed Forces College (MAFCO) in the lake district of Salima.
Handing over the donation during a symbolic cheque presentation ceremony, NBM’s Lilongwe Service Centre manager Mrs. Maureen Gwembere said as a bank of the nation, NBM recognize the significant role the MDF plays as far as security of the citizens is concerned in the country.
Said Gwembere: “We gather here to mark a significant moment in our ongoing partnership with the Malawi Defence Force.
“It is with great honour and pride that we, the Bank of the Nation, stand here to demonstrate our unwavering support for MDF by presenting a symbolic cheque in sponsorship of the upcoming 2024 drill competition.”
Gwembere said NBM’s commitment to the armed forces goes beyond just appreciating the critical role the MDF plays to the country and her people.
“At NBM, our commitment to our armed forces runs deep. We recognise the sacrifices made by the men and women in uniform and it is our privilege to stand by them in their pursuit in their pursuit of excellence,” said Gwembere.
She added: “Our contribution of K8.8 million towards sponsoring trophies and awards for the competition reflects not only our dedication to supporting military talent but also our belief in the importance of fostering a culture of excellence within the MDF.”
Gwembere explained that the presentation of the symbolic cheque represents more than just financial support saying it symbolises NBM’s commitment to empowering the servicemen and women of the Malawi Defence Force.
Said Gwembere: “We believe that by providing them with the resources and recognition they deserve, we are investing in the future of our armed forcesand ensuring that they continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism.”
Receiving the donation, Malawi Defence Force, Chief Training Officer Brigadier Luke Yetala said he was excited for the donation, saying it would add to the required budget of over K100 million.
“We at MDF are so grateful to National Bank for the timely donation. This will go a long way in helping us with the budget, which is over K100 million. We are grateful for the solid partnership with National Bank,” said Brigadier Yetala.
A military drill is a preparation of soldiers for performance of their duties in peace and war through the practice and rehearsal of prescribed movements.
In a practical sense, drill consolidates soldiers into battle formations and familiarizes them with their weapons.
Psychologically, a military drill develops a sense of teamwork, discipline, self-control and promotes automatic performance of duties under disturbing circumstances and instinctive response to the control and stimulus of leaders.
Malawi is a pioneer among African countries with regards to the integration of women into its modern armed forces.
Since 1999, women have been empowered as special forces (5% of the Force Intervention Brigade are female), paratroopers, pilots but also as medical staff.
The Malawi Defence Force drill, which takes place on May 1st, 2024 promises stiff competition from both servicemen and women.
“At NBM, our commitment to our armed forces runs deep.”
Maureen Gwembere
National Bank of Malawi Lilongwe Service Centre Manager
