By: Burnett Munthali
Mangochi – Ahead of the 2025 Cabinet Retreat, Vice President Justice Dr Jane Mayemu Ansah SC, JA (retired) convened government officials, development partners, and distinguished guests for a strategic networking dinner aimed at strengthening collaboration and fostering shared understanding on Malawi’s development priorities.
Vice President Ansah opened the evening by acknowledging President Arthur Peter Mutharika for entrusting her with the responsibility to lead the event, noting that the dinner was designed to encourage meaningful interaction and partnership-building among participants.
She emphasised that the gathering was more than a ceremonial meal, highlighting its purpose as a space for exchanging insights, experiences, and ideas in preparation for the discussions to be held during the Cabinet Retreat.
The Vice President recognised the presence and contributions of Madam Ahunna Eziakonwa, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Assistant Administrator, who also directs the Regional Bureau for Africa, praising her for an address that underscored the importance of collaboration between government and development partners.
She acknowledged the continuous support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), noting that their involvement has been instrumental in facilitating dialogue and enabling platforms for strategic engagement.
Attendees were invited to reflect on the current challenges facing Malawi while exploring the opportunities that exist to advance economic growth, governance reforms, and social transformation.
Vice President Ansah stressed that achieving sustainable progress requires collective action and active participation from all stakeholders, including those unable to attend the dinner, underscoring the value of shared responsibility in national development.
She highlighted the necessity of strong and strategic partnerships to ensure accountability, resilience, and long-term growth, recognising the essential role of development partners in supporting Malawi’s transformational journey.
On behalf of the President and herself, the Vice President extended sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to organising the dinner, including government officials and UNDP staff, commending their meticulous planning and dedication.
Sunbird Nkopola Lodge was acknowledged for providing an inviting and professional environment, while the teams working behind the scenes were praised for creating a warm and elegant setup.
Guests were encouraged to enjoy the meal while engaging in discussions aimed at promoting collaboration, sharing knowledge, and advancing national development goals.
In closing, Vice President Ansah prayed for God’s blessings on all attendees, on the President, and on the nation, before concluding with best wishes for an enjoyable and productive evening.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Fenella Frost, UNDP Resident Representative in Malawi, described the gathering as a privileged opportunity to celebrate Malawi and its people.
Ms. Frost expressed gratitude on behalf of UNDP to the Government of Malawi, the Vice President, and all development partners for their dedication to advancing the country’s development agenda.
She highlighted that the dinner was inspiring, reflecting both the collective achievements to date and Malawi’s vast potential, while reaffirming UNDP’s commitment to supporting national aspirations, strengthening institutions, and building an inclusive, resilient future for all Malawians.
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