Salima, July 5 — The state visit of Botswana’s President, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, to Malawi has stirred not just diplomatic excitement but also heartfelt joy among Batswana nationals working on the Salima–Lilongwe Water Supply Project under Khato Civils — the company owned by Malawian-Botswana businessman, Simbi Phiri.
Speaking from the construction site in Salima, Khato Civils’ Finance Director Pride Phiri warmly welcomed President Boko’s visit, calling it a powerful symbol of the long-standing ties between Malawi and Botswana. Flanked by several Batswana employees, Phiri described the moment as a “homecoming” of sorts.
“Our Chairman, Simbi Phiri, is a child of both nations. His father was from Malawi, his mother from Botswana — so this visit resonates deeply with us,” he said. “It’s a reminder that in this SADC region, we are more than neighbours — we are family.”
He also noted that several Batswana nationals are currently working on the company’s flagship project in Malawi, which shows the kind of peaceful coexistence and cross-border collaboration that SADC was meant to foster. With a smile, Phiri even joked that perhaps some of the Batswana workers may find love in Malawi — adding, “We are building more than infrastructure here; we are building lives and relationships.”
Phiri further called on Southern African leaders to nurture this spirit of integration. “Let’s continue encouraging partnerships that promote mobility, cooperation, and regional prosperity,” he said. “This is how we grow stronger — together.”
President Boko’s visit, part of Malawi’s 61st Independence Anniversary celebrations, has already been hailed as a diplomatic success. President Lazarus Chakwera took to social media to reflect on their bilateral meeting held earlier at Kamuzu Palace.
“I have received as my special guest for the 61st Independence celebrations, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana,” President Chakwera wrote. “Our discussions centred on strengthening the bilateral relationship that dates back to 1966, and expanding our cooperation in trade, mining, education, tourism, and cultural exchange.”
The Malawian leader further announced that the Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation (JPCC) between the two countries would soon be revitalised to deepen collaboration.
For Khato Civils — whose operations span several SADC countries — the visit was an opportunity to celebrate the values of regional unity and economic integration. The company’s diverse workforce is a living example of what shared development can look like on the ground.
As Phiri aptly put it, “This visit is more than protocol. It’s a reflection of shared heritage, shared labour, and shared futures. Malawi is honoured to host President Boko — and so are we at Khato Civils.”
