President Arthur Peter Mutharika (APM) yesterday officially appointed and promoted Lieutenant General George Jaffu as Chief of the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) and General during a ceremony held at his Page House residence in Mangochi District.
Speaking before decorating Jaffu with his new rank insignia, Mutharika—who is the Commander-in-Chief of the MDF—described the new military head as a distinguished, well-experienced, and professional officer capable of strengthening national security.
“I have been following Jaffu, and he is a man with a clear career path. His appointment is a testimony of his credentials, and I am proud of him,” said Mutharika, adding that he has high expectations that Jaffu will perform exceptionally well.
“I wish him well and good health,” said a visibly excited Mutharika.
In an interview after being decorated, General Jaffu expressed gratitude for the appointment, pledging to transform the MDF by improving the welfare of its personnel, particularly in areas such as housing, uniforms, and other essential accessories.
“Yes, today I have been promoted to the rank of full General. There are many issues I have discussed with the President regarding national security, including housing, uniforms, and accessories. I will ensure that the MDF is improved and well-equipped,” he said.
The appointment signifies the formal grant of authority and legal mandate for General Jaffu to command, lead troops, and oversee military operations on behalf of the President.
It also marks his official authorisation to serve as Chief of the Malawi Defence Force.
President Mutharika appointed Lieutenant General George Jaffu to the position on October 5.
Before his appointment as MDF Chief, Jaffu served as Deputy Commander, a role he assumed in May 2024, after previously holding the rank of Major General.
He joined the MDF in 1988 and has since served in various positions, including Inspector General, Chief of Staff at Joint Headquarters, and Military Adviser to Malawi’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.
Jaffu holds a Master’s Degree in Strategic Management from Derby University in the United Kingdom and has undertaken several professional military courses, including Joint Operations Planning and United Nations Military Observers Training.
Born on November 19, 1962, General Jaffu hails from Mpondasi Village, Traditional Authority (T/A) Mponda, in Mangochi District.
During the ceremony, Jaffu presented MDF uniform and a briefcase to Mutharika as a commander-in-chief of MDF.
