By Chisomo Phiri

A Malawian based in the Kingdom of Eswatini, Mphatso Kampeni, has published a book titled ‘Diplomacy and Development in Africa’.

In an interview with our journalist Chisomo Phiri, Kampeni said the book to be launched in October this year,explores social economic development solutions for the entire Africa continent through different strategies such as diplomacy and international relations, sustainable solutions for youth unemployment, women economic empowerment, health, and education.

Kampeni, who is passionate about seeing Africa develop, said he was motivated to write the book because he believes that Africa has all it takes to change its situation and look beyond the continent for solutions using its expertise rather than seeking aid, loans, and grants.

He said the book will be available in all leading bookshops in Malawi, Eswatini, and online stores by the end of September 2024.

The author expressed his optimistism that the book will contribute to the growing writing industry in Malawi, which he believes needs to expose more upcoming writers to different areas of need and support them with writing skills and platforms for exposure.

In his closing remarks, Kampeni emphasized the need for Malawi to have vibrant and dedicated people in its foreign service portfolio, citing countries like America, United Kingdom, and Rwanda as examples of those that have benefited from international development cooperation and public diplomacy.

He encouraged Malawians to join hands in finding sustainable solutions to their challenges rather than blaming themselves and their governments.