Minister of Tourism Vera Kamtukule’s passion for her work is incredible.
When she was Minister of Labour, her keenness and enthusiasm gave hope and confidence to the people, especially majority labourers in the tea estates where she lobbied for better conditions of work.
Kamtukule’s appointment to head the Ministry of Tourism has changed the face of the ministry with her ever-present involvement in the promotion of tourism in the country.
She has been championing and lobbying for local Malawians to change their mindset that tourism is for foreign visitors under the tagline ‘Tidziyamba Ndife a Malawi’ [It should start with us].
The ‘youthful’ minister led by example when she set out for an adventure to reach Mulanje Mountain’s highest point, Sapitwa which stands at 3002 metres.
Having ambition and realising are different things altogether, especially on such adventures which demand resilience, determination and endurance all rolled into one.
Led by Mulanje-based Team Adventure, a local travel and hiking club, Kamtukule made it to the highest point not only in Malawi but also South-Central Africa and third highest in Africa.
She cherishes the feat, saying it was a tough undertaking that she at some point thought of giving up.
Reads her post on her Facebook Page: “Having made it to the summit of Sapitwa, I know I have at least 59 more to conquer! Sapitwa Peak stands tall at 3,002 meters above sea level, with its own unique climate far removed from what you experience at the mountain’s base. Mulanje is the [highest] mountain in Malawi and Sapitwa is the highest point in south-central Africa. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the Indian Ocean from up there! The mountain is often referred to as the “Island in the Sky.”
Kamtukule also applauded teamwork for making it possible for her to reach Sapitwa.
“The goal doesn’t change when things get tough: There were moments when I wanted to give up. My body was exhausted, but the team kept encouraging me. They reminded me that it was too late to turn back. Sometimes, they even sang to lift the spirits of those of us who were struggling,” she said.
The minister also acknowledged One Nico, Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority, IntoSport, Hikers Alliance, Gateway Lodge, Orbis, Malawi Tourism, Mulanje Mountain Conservation Trust and Team Adventure.
US-based lecturer Caroline Kautsire commended the minister for her courage to hike to Sapitwa.
“It is an adventure that has opened you up to your potential and your might. You also experienced the power of team effort, which leads to greater accomplishments and valuable moments than doing it all alone. Thank you for sharing the shift within you and the lessons that a hike can give,” she said.
Team Adventure official Kondwani Chamwala in an interview with ProjectM also applauded the minister for the trip.
“The trip has been a wonderful experience to both us Team Adventure and the minister herself. For us, it’s a milestone to take the Minister on top of the mountain during the tourism month, it signifies a lot. It has raised the profile of Mount Mulanje as a tourism destination.
“She was able to meet other hikers from other countries including South Africa, Lesotho. They interacted and she was excited. This is something that we expect from duty-bearers to come and experience.”
