The seminar was officially opened by the Honorable Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture in Malawi Mr. Daniel Liwimbi with the following words: “A nation that does not promote and preserve its own culture does not appreciate the important role culture plays in the growth of the country`s economy.” Culture has a potential to contribute to economic development and uplift the well-being of its citizens. He also pointed out that the move towards greater work and cooperation with issues relating to culture is in line with the second Malawi Growth Development Strategy. There were fruitful discussions throughout the whole seminar with people dedicated to the topic and ready to develop and preserve the rich cultural heritage belonging to Malawi and its people.
The seminar was organised to inform stakeholders about the focus of the Norwegian Cultural programme in Malawi and also to consult stakeholders on potential cultural programmes for the Norwegian Embassy in Malawi. The seminar also accorded other cultural players such as UNESCO, The Japanise Embassy, US Embassy and the Malawi Department of Culture to inform stakeholders about their cultural activities
The Embassy`s cultural portfolio including future plans were presented by Menno Welling, a local consultant who together with the Nordic Consulting Group reviewed the Norwegian Support to Cultural in Malawi. The report generally recommended continued support to cultural heritage through the Department of Culture and continue building the capacity of cultural associations. It also emerged from the presentation that Norway is an important donor to the cultural sector. Although, the UNESCO Commission is not a donor, the commission has a number of activities that assist Malawi to implement its obligations to various UNESCO Conventions on Culture.
Based on the presentation by Dr. Elizabeth Gomani-Chindebvu, Director of Culture, it is clear that Malawi considers culture as an important vehicle for economic development. Malawi’s future plans on culture are clearly elaborated in the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy II. Norway’s future plans are in line with Malawi’s future plans.
The seminar was viewed by participants as a beginning of a network of cultural players for information exchange. Participants were challenged to strengthen their collaboration.