1 EXHIBIT 23.1 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement of M&F Bancorp, Inc. on Form S-8 of our report dated January 19, 1999, incorporated by reference in the Annual Report on Form 10-KSB of Mechanics and Farmers Bank for the year ended December 31, 1998. /s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP - ---------------------------------- Raleigh, North Carolina January 31, 2000