Joaquim Chissano University confers Honorary Degree to Malawi President

Joaquim Chissano University of Mozambique has conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree in International Cooperation for Development to President Lazarus Chakwera

Speaking at Joaquim Chissano International Conference Center in Maputo vice Registrar of Joaquim Chissano University, Senior Professor Jose Magode said the University’s Council rigorously scrutinized President Chakwera’s commitment and dedication to strengthening international cooperation with other countries.

Profesor Magobe says bilateral relations of Mozambique and Malawi has seen the interdependence of the two countries of sharing benefits in areas that are mutually beneficial.

On this point President Chakwera stated he was honoured and humbled to accept the honorary doctorate, which recognizes his efforts to foster international cooperation

Meanwhile, Malawi and Mozambique have signed Memorandum of Understandings MOU’s on improving energy sector and boosting trade of the two countries.

Speaking during the signing ceremony at office of President of Mozambique Chakwera said signing of the trade agreements is key in enhancing economic relationship between the two countries

He is optimistic that the opening up of Nacala Port to transport fuel and petroleum products from Mozambique to Malawi will reduce transportation costs of petroleum products and also the energy agreement will reduce black outs.

Chakwera together with his counterpart President Filipe Nyusi witnessed the signing ceremony of Memorandums of Understanding on energy being formalized by Energy Ministers of Malawi and Mozambique.

Under the agreements, Malawi seeks to negotiate for a convenient border post, simplified trade regimes, equal treatment of transporters, and tightened security to reduce crossing of boarders using uncharted roots.

In his remarks, President Nyusi said the two countries will collaborate to ensure these agreements become practical so that the people of the two countries benefit.

Nyusi mentioned that Mozambique will continue supporting joint project of construction of 218-kilometre Malawi-Mozambique Interconnector Project and Matambo Substation as part of the Interconnection Project

The Mozambican President expressed dismay at the current trade volumes between Malawi and Mozambique which are relatively low despite the proximity of major commercial and industrial hubs of the two countries.

On this point Nyusi revealed that a one stop boarder post will be operationalised at Mwanza boarder in Malawi to further boost trading activities between the two countries.

Speaking before departing Kamuzu International Airport Chakwera said the bilateral discussions and the Zimbabwe SADC summit are very critical for Malawi in various sectors