By Suleman Chitera

President Arthur Peter Mutharika has returned to Malawi after a private visit to South Africa, where he had travelled on August 5, 2026.

The President arrived at Kamuzu International Airport and used his return to pay tribute to Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Director General Brian Banda, who died while Mutharika was outside the country.

According to Press Secretary Cathy Maulidi, Mutharika expressed deep sadness at Banda’s death, describing the late broadcaster as a friend and saying his passing represents a significant loss to the country.

The President also turned his attention to Malawi’s historic appearance in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final scheduled for Sunday.

Mutharika congratulated the Malawi national women’s football team, the Scorchers, for reaching the decisive stage of the continental competition.

He said the team’s success has demonstrated the power of sport to bring Malawians together, arguing that such unity is not always evident in the country’s political arena.

“The Scorchers have managed to unite Malawians,” the President observed, while wishing the players the best of luck ahead of the final.

The President’s comments come as the Scorchers prepare for one of the biggest matches in the history of Malawi women’s football, with the team’s run to the final generating widespread national interest.

Mutharika left Malawi on August 5 for his private visit to South Africa and has now resumed his duties following his return.