LILONGWE, MALAWI – In a momentous evening filled with camaraderie and shared aspirations, His Excellency Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi, extended a heartfelt welcome to Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana, during a state banquet held at Kamuzu Palace on Saturday, 5th July 2025. This event not only marked a warm-up to the Sunday’s celebration of Malawi’s 61st independence anniversary but also highlighted the deep, enduring ties between the two southern African nations.
As guests gathered in the ornate halls of Kamuzu Palace, President Chakwera seized the opportunity to acknowledge President Boko’s role as a symbol of progressive leadership on the continent. “Mr. President,” Chakwera praised, “we honour you because you are a true son of Botswana, a great nation that has been a true friend of Malawi ever since we became a Republic.”
Chakwera emphasized Boko’s pan-Africanist spirit, linking the fortunes of nations to a broader continental identity. “You understand how inextricably linked we Africans are beyond the borders that were imposed on us,” he said, encapsulating the essence of their unity in diversity.
The atmosphere in the palace turned festive as Chakwera light-heartedly acknowledged Botswana’s men’s national football team, which accompanied President Boko for the celebrations. “We’ll have to wait and see which one of us is the happier President at the end of 90 minutes,” he quipped, underscoring not only the whimsical spirit of friendly competition but also the significance of shared cultural experiences.
President Chakwera also took a moment to commend Boko for his democratic values and progressive vision. “You are a true democrat, holding office only by the will of the people of Botswana expressed through a free and fair election,” he declared, contrasting Boko’s administration with the many leaders who have resorted to undemocratic means to maintain power.
The evening was a celebration of mutual respect and shared goals, particularly regarding development and progress on the African continent. Chakwera lauded Boko’s swift action to launch Botswana’s first satellite in less than six months of taking office. “You are a man of action, who is in a hurry to get things done,” he affirmed, highlighting the urgency needed to foster change in the lives of the people.
In closing, President Chakwera encapsulated the essence of their alliance, saying, “Even though we are honouring you tonight, it is really we who are truly honoured.” He rallied the attendees, raising his glass in a toast: “To the personal good health of Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, to the continued success of his Government, and to the fruitful friendship between our two Republics.”
As laughter and cheers filled the palace, the camaraderie between Malawi and Botswana shone brightly, reinforcing the belief that genuine leadership knows no borders and that together, African nations can rise to meet the challenges of tomorrow. The warmth of the evening underscored a joint commitment to a collaborative future, a vision shared by both leaders standing at the helm of their respective nations.
