By Isaac Salima:
President Lazarus Chakwera has announced plans to introduce Tanzania’s official language Swahili, in the country’s school curriculum as a way of fostering social ties between Malawi and Tanzania.
Chakwera said this Friday during a media briefing as he bade farewell to visiting Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan who was in the country on a three-day state visit.
“I am pleased to inform everyone that I have shared with Her Excellency the exciting news on my administration’s decision to introduce Swahili to strengthen the social bond between the two countries and that the Ministry of Education is on the process of implementing this policy,” Chakwera said.
Since assuming office, Chakwera has been advocating for introduction of other languages in the Malawi Curriculum.
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Last year, he also told reporters of his desire to introduce Portuguese and French so that Malawians can easily communicate with citizens of other countries when conducting business.
The two leaders yesterday also visited Kapeni View in Soche, Blantyre. The spot gives a clear sight of the trail of destruction caused by the Tropical Cyclone Freddy which hit the country in March.
The two leaders also watched a documentary on the wreckage caused by the cyclone.
During the briefing, Chakwera commended the Tanzania government for its swift response to support Malawi when it was hit by the disaster.
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He further said that the two leaders have discussed a number of issues ranging from cross border trade to security matters with the aim of strengthening the existing relationships.
“Her Excellency has assured me of her desire to see Malawi and Tanzania prosper together including making us access their port. When other countries do for us what we cannot do for ourselves, the best is to make full use of their generosity,” Chakwera said.
In her remarks, Suluhu said the two countries will ensure continued cross border trade and strengthened security systems.
“We have tasked ministers and technical teams to work in addressing the challenges that have been highlighted in our discussions.
“We have agreed to continue cooperating to combat issues of terrorism. We have also agreed on enhancing our trade and investment by removing some barriers,” Suluhu said.
The Tanzania leader later left the country through Chileka International Airport.
While in the country Suluhu also planted a tree at the Parliament building in Lilongwe and laid a wreath at the country’s first president late Hastings Kamuzu Banda mausoleum.
Suluhu was also guest of honour during the country’s 59th Independence Day celebrations on Thursday at Bingu National Stadium
