Seychelles and Malawi discuss enhancing cooperation   |23 August 2023

Mew High Commissioner of Malawi to Seychelles, Andrew P.E.Z Kumwenda presenting his credentials to President Ramkalawan (Photo: Louis Toussaint)

The new High Commissioner of Malawi to Seychelles, Andrew P.E.Z Kumwenda said his discussion with the head of state Wavel Ramkalawan has focused mainly on how the two countries could enhance their cooperation.

He was speaking to local media after presenting his credentials to President Ramkalawan at State House yesterday morning, to become the fourth high commissioner of Malawi to be accredited to Seychelles.

Mr Kumwenda said despite the distance, Seychelles and Malawi have a lot of in common since they are both members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and members of the Commonwealth, which means there a lot of areas for cooperation. He said Malawi and Seychelles should sign a general services agreement to take their relationship a bit higher.

“This general services agreement has been long outstanding and it is my expressed wish to have it concluded mid next year,” he stated.

Mr Kumwenda gave examples of areas where they could collaborate, citing Malawians wishing to be part of the general staff of the United Nations and other areas. “If Seychelles supports us, we will also do the same. We can have people in employment in international organisations.”

The new high commissioner added that the two countries could also exchange expertise in other areas such as agriculture and tourism, as Malawi is good in agriculture, while Seychelles shines in tourism.

“We understand you have a good tourism academy here. We can exchange information and knowledge as Malawi is not so good in tourism, but you are doing well,” he shared.

After presenting his credentials to the president, the new high commissioner also called on Vice President Ahmed Afif.

Andrew P.E.Z Kumwenda replaces Olga Ndilowe who was accredited to Seychelles on September 6, 2016. He will be based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Malawi and Seychelles established diplomatic relations in May 2001.

Patsy Canaya