Paramount Chief Kawinga has appealed to government to continue making sure that Malawians remain united despite their political or cultural affiliations, adding that unity is important for development to take place.

The traditional leader said this on Thursday during the elevation ceremony of Sub-Traditional Authority Mapira of Mangochi to full Traditional Authority.

Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda said government will continue to work with the Chief to foster development in rural areas.

Chimwendo further advised the chiefs to avoid corruption when identifying beneficiaries for safety net programs such as social cash transfer and Affordable Inputs Program (AIP).