Social commentators and economic pundits back President Chakwera’s trip to DRC

Political and economic commentator Ceaser Kondowe Kondowe has backed president Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera’s travel to Denicratic Republic of Congo saying at the end of the trip , it is Malawi which is going to benefit.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, Kondowe said Malawi is currently expanding its base on minerals and this will be the best time for Malawi to learn from the DRC.

“The trip is very important for diplomatic relations, secondly Malawi is currently exploring mineral deposits and DRC is well advanced in mining and oil, ” he said.

Human rights and governance commentator Undule Mwakasungula said the importance of the President’s international trips, such as this one, can be viewed from several angles.

Mwakasungula said the Presidential visits to foreign countries strengthen diplomatic ties between nations. He said in this case, President Chakwera’s presence at the swearing-in ceremony of Felix Tshisekedi indicates Malawi’s support and goodwill towards him and his government.

He said the trip will foster a positive relationship between the two nations, potentially leading to cooperation on various fronts, including trade, security, and regional stability.

“Such trips often provide an opportunity to negotiate and sign bilateral agreements or memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with the host country. These agreements can cover a wide range of areas, including trade, investment, and cooperation in various sectors, which can have long-term economic and political benefits for our country,” he said.

Undule said the Presidents’ participation in international events allows him to engage in discussions on regional and global issues. “They can collaborate with other leaders to address common challenges such as peacekeeping and others. These interactions contribute to collective efforts in finding solutions to global problems, ” he said.

He said the Presidential visits can also promote economic opportunities for the home country by attracting foreign investment, open new markets for Malawian products and services, and create a positive image of the country internationally, which can benefit various sectors of the economy.

“So in this case I don’t see any reason to make noise while the President is travelling for the sake of the nation. This is part of his job description, let us appreciate these international trips without politics or hidden agendas. Malawi is not an island, ” said Undule.