By Burnett Munthali
Former Malawian President Dr. Joyce Banda has described the year 2024 as a “mixed bag” of experiences, marked by both hardships and achievements.
In an exclusive interview with Zodiak Broadcasting Station, Banda reflected on the significant events that shaped the year, highlighting her personal and professional engagements in Malawi and beyond.
Banda acknowledged that 2024 was a difficult year for many Malawians, particularly due to economic challenges and natural disasters.
She pointed out that Cyclone Freddy, which struck Zomba and other parts of the country, returned five times in quick succession, leaving communities devastated.
The destruction caused by the cyclone pushed her to intensify her humanitarian efforts, ensuring that affected people received the necessary support.
“The painful things made me work very hard,” Banda stated, emphasizing that she could not stand by while Malawians suffered.
She noted that the country’s struggling economy further compounded the hardships faced by citizens, making it crucial for her to step in and offer assistance where possible.
Despite the difficulties, Banda also had notable engagements on the international stage.
She was appointed to various committees outside Malawi, which required her to travel extensively to fulfill her responsibilities.
Additionally, she was actively involved in global discussions on climate justice, particularly in the area of loss and damage.
Her work in climate justice took her across different countries as well as within Malawi, where she engaged stakeholders in efforts to address the environmental and economic impacts of climate change.
Through these roles, Banda reinforced her commitment to advocating for vulnerable communities affected by climate-induced disasters.
As she reflected on 2024, Banda remained hopeful that the experiences of the past year would serve as lessons for building resilience and fostering development in Malawi.
While acknowledging the challenges, she expressed satisfaction in the contributions she made toward alleviating suffering and advancing climate justice efforts both locally and internationally.
