JBF meets Princess Chitsulo’s shortfall
Joyce Banda Foundation (JBF) International on Wednesday met gospel artist Princess Chitsulo’s K1.5 million (about $3 750) shortfall for her trip to South Africa for a heart ailment treatment.
The foundation’s managing director Edith Akridge made the presentation at the artist’s Chilobwe Township home.
Her voice straining with emotion, the cheery gospel singer—who is scheduled to depart for the rainbow nation today [Thursday]— described the donation as a surprise.
“I am short of words, it’s something I never expected. It has come as a surprise, but then the Bible says in everything, thank God. I have a message for Joyce Banda—may God bless you abundantly,” said Chitsulo.
She said the donation came at a right time when she needed it most to cover the shortfall.
“My appeal to you is that you should extend the gesture to other needy people as well,” said Chitsulo, who has difficulties to speak and hear.
Despite her condition, the gospel princess was able to joke and, at some point, she asked her colleague Lloyd Phiri to say something to the press and when Phiri said he had nothing to add, she said: “Maybe you are afraid to talk in English.”
Akridge said when she heard about Chitsulo’s ailment, she and her mother President Joyce Banda discussed on how best they could assist.
“We had planned to meet her travel costs, but we heard that it had already been sorted out, but we offered to meet the shortfall which was more than the cost of the air ticket.
“I have had a chat with her and I have realised she’s quite a strong lady and I offered her a word of encouragement that with God, everything is possible and we wish her a speedy recovery,” said Akridge.
She said the foundation came in to assist because it is a charitable organisation which also assists needy students, orphans and the elderly.
“We pay for over 3 000 students at primary and secondary level as well as 500 at the University of Malawi including all their needs,” she said.
Former First Lady Callista Mutharika, who was the guest of honour at a concert oganised to raise funds for the singer at Comesa Hall at the weekend, donated return air ticket. About K1.9 million (about $4 523) was realised from the concert. Businessperson Mike Mlombwa also pledged K500 000 (about $1 190).
