LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Vice PresidentJane Ansah welcomed government officials, development partners, and distinguished guests to a special networking dinner held ahead of the 2025 Cabinet Retreat.
She began by expressing sincere gratitude to President Arthur Peter Mutharika for entrusting her with the responsibility to preside over the gathering, highlighting the significance of the evening as a platform for dialogue and partnership.
The Vice President noted that the dinner was designed to foster connections among leaders and stakeholders, providing an opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and strengthen collaborative efforts aimed at advancing Malawi’s national development agenda.
She extended warm appreciation to Ahunna Eziakonwa, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Assistant Administrator, who also serves as Director of the Regional Bureau for Africa, for her insightful address that emphasised the critical role of partnerships in achieving sustainable development.
Acknowledging the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its continuous support, the Vice President remarked that the evening represented more than a ceremonial gathering, serving instead as a forum to prepare for the discussions and strategic planning that would take place during the Cabinet Retreat.
Attendees were encouraged to reflect on the challenges facing Malawi, as well as the opportunities that can drive the nation’s economic growth and social transformation.
She emphasised that the path ahead requires coordinated efforts and collective responsibility from all stakeholders, including those who could not be present, reiterating that meaningful progress cannot be achieved through government action alone.
Robust and strategic partnerships, she said, are essential for ensuring accountability, resilience, and long-term development, highlighting the invaluable contribution of development partners in supporting Malawi’s journey toward national transformation.
The Vice President expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the President and herself to all those who contributed to making the dinner a success, recognising both government organisers and UNDP officials for their meticulous planning and dedication.
Sunbird Nkopola Lodge was commended for providing a gracious and conducive environment, while the teams behind the scenes were praised for creating a warm, elegant, and welcoming setting.
Guests were encouraged to enjoy their meal while engaging in meaningful conversations aimed at enhancing national development and promoting collaborative action.
In her closing remarks, Vice President Ansah prayed for God’s blessings upon everyone present, the President, and the nation of Malawi, before concluding by wishing all attendees an enjoyable evening and thanking them once again for their participation.
Speaking at the event, Fenella Frost, UNDP Resident Representative in Malawi, described it as a privilege to attend the gathering, highlighting it as an opportunity to celebrate Malawi and the remarkable spirit of its people.
She expressed deep appreciation on behalf of UNDP to the Government of Malawi, the Vice President, and all partners for their continued collaboration and commitment to advancing national development.
Frost described the dinner as inspiring, noting that it reflected both shared achievements and Malawi’s immense potential, while reaffirming UNDP’s dedication to supporting the country’s development aspirations, strengthening institutions, and building a more inclusive and resilient future for all Malawians.
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