President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika says his newly sworn-in Minister of State, Alfred Gangata, will among others, champion the affairs of the youth in his office.
President Mutharika said this on Wednesday at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre during the swearing-in ceremony of some Cabinet ministers and senior government officials.
He described Gangata as ‘a very brave young man’ and the appointment is part of his administration’s commitment to empower youths and ensure their much-needed representation in the country’s leadership.
“I want him to look at all sectors of the economy to see how we can bring the youth into the economy of this country. The youth have been demanding young leadership and I have given you a young person to address the issues that affect them,” said Professor Mutharika.
President Mutharika indicated that Gangata will run the ministry from within the Office of the President and Cabinet and will focus on youth development projects and other responsibilities.
Gangata said he will work with full dedication to address the challenges faced by young people and ensure that they live self-reliant lives.
He then thanked the country’s President for trusting him with such a significant responsibility, describing it as a great honour and pledging to serve with honesty and commitment.
Political commentator Mabvuto Bamusi has described this appointment as an opportunity for young people in Malawi.
“This is a great opportunity for young people because it means they now have multiple channels through which they can raise their concerns and participate in the national development agenda,” Bamusi explained.
Gangata was among three new ministers who took the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance during a swearing-in ceremony held at Sanjika Palace. The other two are Foreign Affairs Minister, George Chaponda and Finance Minister, Joseph Mwanamvekha.
By Mike Kalumbi
