By Jones Gadama
Minister of Local Government Richard Chimwendo Banda has emphasized the critical role local leaders play in promoting co-existence and preventing conflicts, particularly ahead of the 2025 elections.
Chimwendo Banda made these remarks during the official opening of the Strong Cities International Capacity Building workshop in Lilongwe, aimed at helping cities develop and address challenges.
The workshop, organized by the Strong Cities Network, brings together mayors, local and international officials to share best practices and develop effective solutions to urban challenges.
Chimwendo Banda urged local leaders to remain vigilant during the election period, preventing and addressing the root causes of threats and violence.
“Local leaders have a crucial role to play in promoting co-existence and preventing conflicts,” Chimwendo Banda said. “During the election period, we expect local leaders to be more vigilant and proactive in addressing issues that may lead to violence and conflicts,” he added.
Getrude Rose Gameera, Head of the East and Southern Africa Regional Hub for Strong Cities Network, expressed commitment to supporting Malawi’s cities through the Ministry of Local Government.
Gameera emphasized the importance of promoting economic development and addressing urban challenges.
“The Strong Cities Network is committed to supporting Malawi’s cities in promoting economic development and addressing urban challenges,” Gameera said, adding that, “We believe that by working together, we can develop effective solutions to the challenges cities face and promote co-existence and peace.”
The workshop is designed to equip local leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to address urban challenges and promote economic development.
Participants will engage in discussions and workshops on topics such as conflict prevention, urban planning, and economic development.
The Strong Cities International Capacity Building workshop is part of a broader effort to support urban development in Malawi.
The workshop aims to build the capacity of local leaders to address urban challenges and promote economic development.
By bringing together mayors, local and international officials, the workshop provides a platform for sharing best practices and developing effective solutions to urban challenges.
The workshop will also provide an opportunity for participants to network and build partnerships that can help support urban development initiatives.
Promoting co-existence and preventing conflicts is critical in the lead-up to the 2025 elections.
Local leaders have a key role to play in ensuring that elections are peaceful and that citizens are able to exercise their right to vote without fear of violence or intimidation.
By addressing the root causes of conflicts and promoting co-existence, local leaders can help to create a stable and peaceful environment that supports economic development and promotes social cohesion.
The workshop is a timely initiative that will help to build the capacity of local leaders to promote co-existence and prevent conflicts.
By working together, Malawi’s cities can develop effective solutions to urban challenges and promote economic development.
As Malawi prepares for the 2025 elections, the role of local leaders in promoting co-existence and preventing conflicts cannot be overstated.
The workshop is a critical step in building the capacity of local leaders to address urban challenges and promote economic development.
