By Rahim Abdul
President Lazarus Chakwera has honoured Malawi’s past leaders by renaming some of the country’s major infrastructure after them, a move the government says is aimed at recognising their contributions to national development.
According to a statement from the Office of the President and Cabinet, signed by Secretary to the President Colleen Zamba, Chileka International Airport in Blantyre will now be called Bakili Muluzi International Airport, in recognition of Malawi’s second president.
In Lilongwe, the Area 18 Interchange has been renamed the Arthur Peter Mutharika Interchange, while part of the Lilongwe Western Bypass Road has been designated the Joyce Banda Highway.
The renaming was officially gazetted on August 9, signifying its legal effect. The government says the decision reflects Chakwera’s policy of honouring those who have held the highest office in the land and contributed to shaping Malawi’s democratic journey.
Analysts note that the move comes at a time when there have been calls for greater recognition of the country’s founding leaders and their legacies.
Malawi’s first president, Hastings Kamuzu Banda, already has major national landmarks named after him, including Kamuzu International Airport and Kamuzu Stadium.
Meanwhile, reactions among Malawians have been mixed. Supporters say the recognition is long overdue and a symbol of unity, while others argue that more pressing national issues such as economic hardship, unemployment, and public service delivery should take precedence.
