Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has set his sights on an ambitious transformation for Likoma Island, vowing to turn it into a vibrant hub comparable to Dubai. During an engaging discussion on Wednesday with chiefs from Likoma and Nkhata Bay at Mzuzu State Lodge, the President outlined his administration’s plans for modern infrastructure and development that would reshape the island’s future.
Speaking with optimism, Chakwera shared his dream of establishing Likoma as a center of excellence with upgraded social amenities. He emphasized the importance of collective effort, noting that Likoma could achieve greatness if people work together towards a common vision, much like Dubai.
“My dream is to make Likoma another ‘Dubai’. We have Dubai today because people came together and pooled their resources. Malawi can also do the same as long as we believe in the same vision. Ndizotheka ndi masomphenya a Malawi 2063,” said Chakwera.
In a key step towards this vision, the President revealed plans to soon commission a cutting-edge Likoma Jetty, designed to streamline the movement of goods and services to and from the island, further bolstering economic activities.
The President also urged chiefs, whom he referred to as part of the government’s executive branch, to steer clear of active politics and instead collaborate with the government to uplift the welfare of their people.
On the pressing issue of food security, President Chakwera acknowledged that while hunger continues to challenge Malawians, it is not due to a lack of effort but rather the result of climate-related adversities. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to addressing these issues with a more climate-resilient approach, one he has consistently championed on both national and global platforms.
The meeting was attended by Senior Chiefs, Traditional Authorities, and other local leaders, who expressed support for the President’s development agenda.
