Some Malawians are voicing concerns that President Lazarus Chakwera has been globetrotting. But let’s shift the focus—shouldn’t the real question be what he’s bringing back for the country?
Take his recent visit to Mozambique, our neighbor, where he secured deals to enhance our petroleum supply and electricity infrastructure. Is that not a win for Malawi? In Germany, he inked a partnership for an 80-megawatt solar farm in Choma with Mzuzu University, and also sealed agreements to train our health professionals. How can anyone argue that this isn’t for the nation’s benefit?
And now, he’s in China for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Malawi’s Ambassador to China, Allan Chintedza, is optimistic about the summit’s outcomes, which could revitalize the China-Africa Cooperation framework that lapsed in 2021. Malawi aims to spotlight its ambitions in agriculture, mining, and tourism, seeking to diversify and propel our economy forward.
Chintedza emphasized the importance of President Chakwera’s presence at this summit, ensuring Malawi’s interests are not just heard but acted upon. Chakwera is slated to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other key industry leaders.
Is it wrong for him to aggressively chase the ATM—Agriculture, Tourism, and Mining—agenda? Criticize the president on other matters if you must, but to attack him for endeavors that stand to benefit all Malawians? That’s simply unfair.
