By Burnett Munthali
During a significant meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York, President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera acknowledged the robust partnership between Malawi and the United Nations (UN) across various development sectors. The meeting, held on Saturday, underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing pressing issues facing the nation.
Chakwera emphasized that his administration values the cooperation with the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Malawi and the numerous UN agencies active in the country. “Our partnership with the UN spans crucial sectors, including education, health, climate change, poverty eradication, agriculture, and good governance,” he stated, highlighting the diverse areas where this collaboration is making a difference.
The President commended the UN for its unwavering support during both challenging and prosperous times in Malawi, recognizing the organization’s role as a steadfast ally. He further appealed for additional support from the UN in three critical areas: assistance for the upcoming elections, social cash transfers for those impacted by hunger due to climate change, and rehabilitation efforts for victims of Cyclone Freddy. This includes rebuilding infrastructure such as schools and hospitals, as well as facilitating the construction of affordable housing.
Chakwera also praised the UN’s commitment to promoting dialogue among conflicting parties, fostering peaceful resolutions to disputes, and underscoring the significance of stability for development.
Additionally, he applauded the establishment of the UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries, recognizing its potential to bridge the technological gap and contribute to sustainable development, particularly in African nations. Chakwera’s recognition of this initiative reflects his vision for leveraging technology to drive growth and improve the quality of life for Malawians.
The meeting between President Chakwera and Secretary-General Guterres serves as a reminder of the critical role that international partnerships play in tackling global challenges and achieving sustainable development goals. As Malawi navigates its development path, the support from the UN will be essential in addressing urgent issues and fostering a brighter future for its citizens
