The Minister of Information and Digitalisation, Moses Kunkuyu, has announced that the 61st Independence Day celebrations will take place on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe. The event will be held under the theme “Restoring Broken Foundations: Taking Malawi Forward.”
Kunkuyu made the announcement during a Thursday press briefing in Lilongwe, calling on Malawians to reflect on their past and unite in building a resilient and prosperous nation. He emphasized the importance of unity and shared purpose at this significant milestone.
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Kunkuyu explained that the celebrations will be graced by President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera and Botswana’s President, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko. He added that President Boko is scheduled to arrive on Saturday and will be honoured with the Freedom of the City at Lilongwe Civic Offices.
Kunkuyu told Malawi News Agency (MANA) that Independence Day offers more than just celebration; it provides an opportunity for Malawians to renew their commitment to peace, unity, and development. He stated that the day should serve as a reminder of the country’s journey since independence in 1964, as well as a platform to celebrate achievements and reinforce efforts to build a more resilient Malawi.
He urged the public to embrace the 2025 theme asserting that it encourages progress, acknowledges past challenges, and fosters collective hope for an inclusive future.
Kunkuyu announced that gates would open at 6:00 AM on July 6, with all guests expected to be seated by 7:30 AM to prevent congestion. He advised that children will not be allowed into the stadium without parents or guardians and urged the public not to bring alcoholic drinks or weapons, as security checks will be conducted at all entrances to ensure safety.
He further highlighted that the celebrations will begin earlier, on Saturday, July 5, with a National Service of Worship at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC). Kunkuyu explained that clergy, officials, and citizens will gather to seek divine guidance, with President Chakwera expected to attend.
Kunkuyu also stated: “The day will start with worship at BICC, and in the afternoon, President Boko will be received at Kamuzu International Airport, where he will be officially welcomed and honoured.”
He emphasized that main events on Sunday will include military parades, a football match between Malawi’s national team, the Flames, and Botswana’s “Zebras,” as well as cultural showcases and speeches from both Presidents. He underscored the importance of responsible and patriotic participation throughout the festivities.
Finally, Kunkuyu stated that the government has adopted a cost-effective approach, focusing on meaningful activities and emphasizing efficiency and sustainability. He assured that full expenditure details would be made public after all ministries and departments submit their financial reports and liquidation documents.
“Our celebrations this year have been planned with minimal expenditure, emphasizing accountability and responsible use of public resources at every level,” Kunkuyu concluded.
