By Chisomo Phiri

Minister of Tourism, Vera Kamtukule, on Monday officially launched this year’s Tourism Month at the ministry’s headquarters in Lilongwe with a call message of unity, resilience, and the vital role tourism plays in nation-building.

Speaking at the event, Kamtukule reflected on her two-year journey at the helm of the Ministry of Tourism, describing it as a period of ‘long days, spirited debates, bold ideas, and proud victories.’

The minister commended her team for their dedication and love for the country, saying their commitment had made her journey rich with lessons and memories.

“Tourism is not merely about destinations or attractions,it is about people.It is about the porters guiding travelers up Mulanje, the chefs serving warm meals in village kitchens, the communities safeguarding our heritage, and the youth daring to dream bigger for their future. Tourism is joy, it is unity, it is nation-building,” she said.

Kamtukule also pointed to the country’s achievements in the sector, including successful participation in international expos, strides in policy reforms, and efforts to elevate the country’s story on the global stage while empowering local citizens.

“As we open this year’s Tourism Month, we begin by doing what we do best coming together.Sharing food, sharing stories, sharing hope. Looking back with gratitude at how far we’ve come, and looking ahead with conviction to the greatness still to be written,” she said.

The minister thanked her colleagues at the ministry and dedicated the celebrations to the people of the country, stressing that all achievements in tourism are for them, with them and because of them.

Tourism Month, celebrated annually, serves as a platform to promote Malawi’s culture, heritage, and attractions while encouraging both domestic and international tourism.

This year’s tourism day, which falls on September 27, is being commemorated under the theme ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation’.