As Malawi celebrated Tourism Month, Minister of Tourism Vera Kamtukule took the opportunity to shine a light on the deeper significance of tourism beyond its economic contributions. During her visit to the 2024 Girls Camp Program, organized by Save the Children at the scenic Hippo View Lodge in Liwonde, she spoke to a group of young girls about tourism’s powerful role in shaping and reflecting Malawi’s collective identity.
Minister Kamtukule emphasized that tourism is more than just promoting destinations or generating revenue; it’s about forging connections. It serves as a bridge between generations, connecting Malawians to their land, traditions, and diverse communities. This connection fosters a sense of unity, pride, and belonging, strengthening the nation’s fabric.
Furthermore, the Minister highlighted tourism’s crucial role in preserving Malawi’s rich cultural heritage. By showcasing local traditions, arts, and customs, tourism helps ensure that these vital elements of Malawi’s identity are passed down to future generations. This preservation ensures that Malawi’s unique cultural tapestry remains vibrant and cherished.
In her address to the young girls, Minister Kamtukule encouraged them to view tourism as a pathway to connecting with their ancestors, peers, and the world beyond. She stressed the empowering potential of tourism, especially for young people, offering opportunities to participate in the country’s growing tourism sector. She urged them to become active stewards of Malawi’s natural resources, recognizing that protecting its wildlife and landscapes is essential for the future of tourism and the country’s overall sustainability.
The Minister presented the girls with a special gift – a book titled “Made to Bloom.” This thoughtful gesture symbolized the potential each girl holds within her, reminding them that they are capable of blossoming and reaching their fullest potential, regardless of challenges. She inspired them to believe in their ability to create positive impacts within their families, communities, and even the broader society, emphasizing that growth is about personal success and making a lasting difference.
In her closing remarks, Minister Kamtukule encouraged the girls to embrace resilience in the face of challenges, to stay strong and determined in a world that often tests one’s resolve. She emphasized that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles and creating meaningful change in both personal and community life. She left them with a message of hope and empowerment, reminding them that they are capable of flourishing and leaving their mark wherever they go. The Minister expressed hope that the young girls at the camp would become ambassadors of Malawi’s culture and natural beauty, using tourism as a platform to share their unique heritage with the world.
