Malawi government earmarks K150m for Kamuzu memorial park
Malawi government has set aside K150 million for the development of a memorial park for founding president Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda.
Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture Kondwani Nankhumwa confirmed the development in an interview with The Daily Times on Wednesday, saying government wants to respect contributions Kamuzu made to the country.
“The project components include an information centre for displaying other artifacts and information from colonial times to the end of Kamuzu’s era. We will also construct a VIP lounge and an office block for people who will be working at the site,” he said.
Nankhumwa also said government is planning to construct showrooms where vehicles that were used by the former leader will be displayed.
He said the park will also have a special block for the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) where they will be able to prepare for their activities and rest during VVIP functions.
“Currently, the building department is working on the drawings of the showrooms. Former president Bingu wa Mutharika wanted the place to boost tourism, apart from being the final resting place for our former leader. In other countries people pay a fee to visit such places. We want to respect Banda,” said Nankhumwa.
Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Administrative Secretary Potipher Chidaya described the idea as an interesting move.
“It is impressive to learn that government has shown interest to develop the area. People should be able to go to the mausoleum and see for themselves,” he said.
Chidaya further said the construction of the monument will help to preserve the history of the late president, adding that even the younger generation will be able to know and follow the history properly.
Chancellor College political analyst Blessings Chinsinga commended government for coming up with the initiative.
“It is a welcome development. We need to have a systematic way of preserving our history and this should happen to all the presidents. It is a very a positive development and it has been long overdue,” said Chinsinga.
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