Ministers urge patriotism from Diaspora Malawians
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation George Chaponda and Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development Allan Chiyembekeza at the weekend urged Malawians living in Zambia to be patriotic and unified.
The ministers made the remarks on Saturday at Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka in response to concerns from Limbani Davis Nsapato, a representative of Malawians living in Zambia, who said they were dismayed at the lack of fiscal discipline in Malawi Government’s expenditures.
He asked government to do more in reducing unemployment and improving security and inflation rate.
In his response, Chaponda called for unity and patriotism which he said was crucial.
Quoting the Malawi National Anthem, Chaponda said: “Maybe our National Anthem does not say enough since it outlines the negative aspects that Malawi as a nation has to desist from, one of which is envy.”
He said there was need for Malawians to change their mindsets and perception to that of developed countries such as United States of America in the way they face issues and support their leadership.
Chaponda said recently President Peter Mutharika was awarded with many accolades such as the champion of higher education in Africa, the He-for-She campaign champion, champion for the youth, champion for local drugs development in least development countries. He said these awards are a demonstration that Malawi is doing well.
Commenting on the same, Chiyembekeza echoed the President’s sentiments that some people are good at criticising, but fail to provide positive alternatives or ideas.
He called on people to bring their ideas forward saying those that just criticise have nothing to offer.
The ministers accompanied the President on his visit to Zambvia at the weekend where he undertook some official engagements. n
