Chakwera Bemoans Harmful Cultural Practices

By: Draxon Maloya

The Malawi leader, Lazarus Macarthy Chakwera has in strongest terms condemned some tendencies and cultural practices which he said continues to dent the image of a Malawian cultural heritage.

 Chakwera made the renarks, on Thursday when he presided over the official closing ceremony of Takulandirani Malawi International Tourism Expo 2023, which was held from 26th to 27th April at Bingu International Convention Center (BICC) in Lilongwe.

Chakwera stressed on the need to stop all harmful cultural practices including the spirit of begging which he said sends a wrong image to those intending to visit the country.

The president also disclosed that the government is taking measures to support the tourism sector.

“These measures include the removal of visa fees for tourists from 16 key source markets, signing of bilateral agreements with other countries to facilitate the development and promotion of multi-country tour packages, and improving airports and tourism infrastructures to attract international airlines,” Chakwera said.

In her statement, Minister of Tourism Vera Kamtukule said the two-day event provided a platform for players in the tourism industry to network in different areas.

“Let me acknowledge and applauded all stakeholders who supported the 2023 Tourism Expo,” Kamtukule said.

Earlier upon arrival, President Chakwera proceeded to tour selected pavilions to appreciate the exhibits on display and the efforts being made by stakeholders in the tourism industry.

The event was themed “We’re Back Ipatse Moto!” and attracted prominent figures, including the Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Madalisto Kazombo, Cabinet ministers, government officials, the private sector, media, and traditional leaders among others.