By Chisomo Phiri
Malawi’s Governance and human rights activist Undule Mwakasungula has urged the public to avoid politicizing presidential international trips but rather reflect on the impact of the visits to various countries.
Mwakasungula’s remarks come as President Lazarus Chakwera has left to Saudi Arabia today despite the cancellation of the Africa-Arab summit.
Saudi Arabia authorities have cancelled the meeting in view of the ongoing war in Israel.
But according Undule joins Kunkuyu saying that such presidential trips are necessary as they bring potential benefits.
The activist says Chakwera’s engagement with wealthy nations like Saudi Arabia could lead to infrastructure development, technology transfer and job creation.
Speaking at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) in Lilongwe, President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera said his trip to Saudi Arabia and Egypt is important to the socio-economic development of the country because among others it will facilitate the construction of one of the neglected roads Mangochi – Makanjira.
The Malawi leader said that Makanjira is rich in agriculture and mineral resources hence once the road is tarmacked, it will unlock economic activities in agriculture, tourism and mining.
“This is deliberate and in line with our Malawi 2063 development ambitions. We realise that with a good road between Mangochi and Makanjira, all economic potential for Makanjira will be unlocked,” said DR. Chakwera.
On the Cairo leg of the trip, where he is expected to attend the Intra-Africa Trade Fair, Dr.Chakwera said it is important for Malawians to participate and share ideas with others in the continent on value addition and exports.
Among other official engagements, President Chakwera will witness the signing of a financing agreement between the Saudi Fund for Development and the Government of Malawi pegged at K22.45 billion for the construction of the neglected 102-kilometer Mangochi – Makanjira Road.
