49th Independence Day celebrations diluted
Malawi Government has announced that Malawi’s 49th Independence Celebrations slated for Civo Stadium in the capital, Lilongwe will not be marked with all the traditional activities as a cost-cutting measure.
Chairperson of the main organising committee Ken Lipenga in an interview on Wednesday said government has a working budget of K100 million (about $250 000), but was quick to point out that there will not be as many activities as in the past.
Last year, Malawi celebrated its birth marked with prayers in Blantyre and government spent K10 million (about $25 000). The decision to cancel traditional celebrations received lukewarm reception as President Joyce Banda coincidentally marked 100 days in office.
Previously, government spent at least K150 million (about $375 000) for similar events.
“A day will come when we will return to old days, to really dramatic celebrations, very expensive activities of State banquettes, special guests of honour from abroad.”
Other activities are international football and netball matches.
“There will be an event honouring some Malawian achievers, but names are not yet out,” he said.
The 49th Independence Celebrations are marked under the theme “2013 Peace, Prosperity and Breakthroughs”. The President is expected to make an address during the event.
On Tuesday, Lipenga announced that there will be national prayers service tomorrow [on Friday] at the Bingu International Conference Centre where the President will be in attendance.
