President Lazarus Chakwera has called on Malawians to embrace a change in mindset and behavior, warning that the country cannot achieve meaningful development without a strong moral foundation.
Speaking during Malawi’s 61st Independence Anniversary celebrations at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, President Chakwera emphasized that a culture of destruction and indiscipline continues to hold the nation back.
He pointed to the theft of public assets—such as road signs and medical supplies—as examples of destructive attitudes that undermine national progress.
“A house without a proper foundation cannot withstand wind or heavy loads,” Chakwera said. “We cannot build a future on a foundation that lacks moral values.
“Our setbacks are not always because we lack resources, but because of how we conduct ourselves. This culture of vandalism and selfishness must stop,” he said.
Chakwera also urged Malawians to hold on to hope, patience, and take collective responsibility in building a better Malawi saying these give strength to efforts and meaning to sacrifices the nation is making.
Guest of Honour President of Botswana Advocate Duma Gideon Boko challenged Malawi’s leaders to confront the pressing issues that affect ordinary citizens, particularly poverty and inequality.
He called for renewed efforts to address social injustices and urged leaders to focus on unity and progress.
“The challenges Malawians face are a test of leadership. These problems exist not to defeat us, but to measure our commitment to finding real solutions,” said Boko.
Boko emphasized the need for strong, solution-driven leadership across Africa and wished Malawi a peaceful electoral process in the upcoming September elections.
In his words, Chairperson of the Independence Celebrations Organizing Committee and Minister of Homeland Security, Ezekiel Peter Ching’oma, described the day as a celebration of Malawi’s strength and unity.
“This anniversary is a reminder of our resilience and patriotism. It shows that with a shift in mindset and collective effort, we can shape a brighter future for Malawi,” Ching’oma said.
The celebrations were brought to life by a vibrant showcase of traditional dances, including Utse from Nsanje, Mapenenga from Karonga, Ngoma from Ntcheu, Ingoma from Mzimba, Chisamba from Lilongwe, and Gule Wamkulu, among others. These performances, along with energetic live music, celebrated the depth and diversity of Malawi’s cultural heritage.
The day also featured a friendly football match between Malawi’s Flames and Botswana’s Zebras, which ended in a 1–1 draw in regular time. The visitors triumphed 3–0 in a penalty shootout, after Malawi missed three of their opening spot-kicks.
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