Envoys plant trees at Luanar’s Africa Park

Diplomats representing various countries in Malawi on Tuesday planted trees at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (Luanar) as part of activities to commemorate this year’s Africa Day.

The land on which the trees have been planted has since been named Africa Park, symbolising solidarity among African States.

After planting his tree, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Francis Kasaila said the park will also act as a reminder to all Africans, especially the younger generation, that the freedom the continent is enjoying now did not come on a silver platter.

“The freedom we are enjoying now was fought for by our founding fathers; some of them had to pay for it with their blood,” he said.

Kasaila said the trees also signify the support and solidarity Malawi gets from its African partners and the rest of the world.

“It is a sign that we are not alone in our various development efforts, but we have the support of all of you, friends and partners,” said the minister.

Luanar acting vice-chancellor Professor Emmanuel Kaunda said the park will create a conducive environment for educating visitors, including students, members of staff, surrounding communities and others about the continent whilst enjoying the tree shade.

“We also feel that this is a natural choice as Luanar hosts students from all over the continent,” he said. n