Malawi Broadcasting Corporation Director General Brian Banda has died at Mwaiwathu Private Clinic in Blantyre following a short illness, according to MBC Public Relations and Customer Affairs Manager Chisomo Mwamadi.
His passing has sent shockwaves through Malawi’s media industry.
In a brief statement to MBC, Mwamadi said the corporation would release more details in due course.
Banda had only been in office for a few months. He was appointed by the MBC Board in March 2026 and officially assumed duties on March 16.
Before joining MBC, Banda built his career as a journalist and television presenter with the Times Group. He was known for his work in current affairs and TV broadcasting. He also previously co-hosted the popular TV programme Hot Current
At the time of his appointment, the MBC Board said Banda was expected to strengthen institutional management and help the corporation deliver credible, professional, and public-interest broadcasting to Malawians.
During his short tenure, Banda pushed for more discipline and accountability at MBC. In June, he made an unannounced inspection at the corporation’s Area 4 studios in Lilongwe, where he checked staff punctuality and urged employees to show greater commitment to their work.
Banda’s death is being mourned as a major loss to Malawi’s broadcasting and journalism fraternity. MBC has not yet announced funeral arrangements or shared further details about his illness. More information is expected from both the corporation and the family.
