National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust says observance of key principles of democracy and good governance, such as rule of law, transparency and citizen participation, is key to achieving the aspirations of Malawi 2063.
Nice District Civic Education Officer for Kasungu, Pilirani Chaguza, said this on Monday at Chalizya in Kasungu East Constituency during a training for local leaders on good governance and the Malawi 2063.
He said the country’s resolve as reflected in the Agenda 2063 blueprint cannot be achieved if there is no citizen participation, accountability and rule of law at all levels of governance, including in community structures.
“We all agree that Malawi 2063 is the right path the country must take if it is to graduate from the current status to become a wealthy middle income country that is economically independent.
“However, no matter how good a policy or programme can be, it cannot bring any result if people are not participating or supporting it. The country’s vision as espoused in the Malawi 2063 document calls for citizen participation if it is to be realized.” Said Chaguza.
He said the 2063 Vision is youth centered hence youths must be in the forefront to exploit available spaces of opportunities so that they lead in driving the 42-year long agenda.
“No one should be a spectator in driving this agenda. The youths must make sure they take a leading role because this vision begs for their active contribution.
“All the activities towards the realization of this dream, even at community level, must reflect good governance principles. For example, as we make farmers clubs and cooperatives, let’s ensure that these groups are founded on democratic values,” he said.
Village Headman Petulo of Sub Traditional Authority Chitanthamapiri said the linkage of good governance with the Malawi 2063 vision as done during the training was an eye opener for the local leaders.
“As traditional leaders, we will encourage our communities to change their mindset on approaches to various family practices, such as farming, health and participation. Sometimes we get things wrong because we do not have information.
“My plea is that this mindset change we are talking about must be demonstrated at all levels of governance in all sectors of our country as a demonstration to the communities that this is the path the country has chosen to take. It is when we pull in the same direction that we can realize our vision,” Petulo said.
The training, which drew together faith and traditional leaders, youth groups, teachers and leaders of community development structures, was organized to raise awareness about the roles of the communities in the realization of the Malawi 2063 vision.
Reported By Wanangwa Tembo
