By Durell Namasani
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has expressed Malawi’s eagerness to learn from Botswana as the two nations work to deepen bilateral relations and strengthen their economies. The remarks were made during bilateral talks at Kamuzu Palace with visiting Botswana President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, who is on a three-day state visit.
President Chakwera stated that the visit presents an opportunity for both countries to renew their partnership in economic and cultural development to meet 21st-century challenges. He emphasized his desire to increase trade between Malawi and Botswana while drawing lessons from Botswana’s expertise in diamond governance.
“My hope is to structure Malawi’s mineral sector and Sovereign Wealth Fund through the newly established Mining Company and Mining Authority by learning from Botswana’s experience,” Chakwera said. He also highlighted plans to collaborate on Malawi’s ATM Strategy—boosting productivity in Agriculture, Tourism, and Mining—while advancing manufacturing and value addition.
In response, President Boko pledged Botswana’s support in developing Malawi’s mining sector through skills and expertise sharing to drive economic growth. “The time has come for transformative action that spurs economic growth, uplifts our continent, and improves the lives of our people. We commit to this now and in the future,” Boko declared.
To further solidify relations, the two nations signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in Trade and Aquaculture, among other areas, to facilitate smoother trade exchanges between Malawi and Botswana.
