Malawians have been advised to prioritise unity and solidarity for the nation to develop.
President Lazarus Chakwera made the appeal Sunday at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe during official commemoration marking the country’s Independence Day.
Malawi attained independence from British colonial rule in on 6 July 1964 with Dr Kamuzu Banda becoming the first President of the country.
Addressing thousands of people, who attended the 61st Independence Day celebrations, Chakwera underlined the need for the country’s citizens to maintain moral, practical and ethical standards, saying these are pillars for growth.
He said time has come for citizens to set aside their differences and work towards rebuilding the nation.
“We must foster a spirit of hope and mutual support, avoiding negativity and instead striving collaboratively to achieve our shared objectives,” he said.
The President said by sticking together, the country can register meaningful development.
“We need to cultivate a culture of collaboration, ensuring that our efforts, including the efforts of all government agencies are synergistic and capable of substantively contributing to the national development agenda,” said Chakwera.
The Malawi leader also said respect, peace and ethics are the crucial cornerstones Malawi needs to restore its broken foundations.
Botswana President Duma Gideon Boko, who was the guest of honour at the function, implored Malawians to continue pursuing national renewal through consistent small acts of courage and resilience.
“The people of Malawi should also work hard and trust their leaders despite differences in perspective,” said Boko.
This year’s function, which was held under the theme “Restoring Broken Foundations; Taking Malawi Forward”, was spiced up by speeches, cultural dances and a football match between Malawi national football team and Botswana national football team, just to mention but a few.
Faith leaders, members of the diplomatic community, traditional leaders and politicians attended the event.
