Usi meets Kilimanjaro hikers

Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture Michael Usi has wished well 19 hikers who leave the country this afternoon for Tanzania to hike to the highest point in Africa, Uhuru Peak on Mount Kilimanjaro.

The hikers bade farewell to Usi at his office, before proceeding to Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) for their flight to Dar es Salaam which is scheduled to depart at 4pm.

“You are carrying the Malawi flag for the noble cause of promoting tourism. I wish companies, individuals and organisations will support you in this cause. And as you go, learn as much as you can how tourism is being promoted elsewhere,” said Usi, adding it was in tandem with several of the ministry’s policies and strategies.

Kondwani Chamwala, one of the leaders for the group under the Outdoor Adventure banner, said they were excited with the minister’s encouragement.

“It’s a morale booster for us. The ministry did well to endorse the trek and for the minister to encourage us this way pushes us further,” said Chamwala.

The 19 hikers will be on the trek until 18 September. Each of them has been asking for sponsorship from individuals and organisations for the funds that will be used in the establishment of the clubs in the secondary schools.