Living in a beautiful city

I was extremely pleased to see several pictures coming up from the resort district of Mangochi showing the Mayor of Blantyre City, Noel Chalamanda and his wife’s wedding. The event was just phenomenal. Once again, we were reminded that the King of Blantyre was human, just like the rest of us, with feelings, fears and yearnings. Having sorted out his personal life, Chalamanda will now concentrate on issues affecting Blantyre.

Chalamanda follows in the footsteps of his predecessors such as Mayors Phoya, Kumichongwe, Luke Jumbe, Victor Likaku and John Chikakwiya. It is soothing to know that one’s post has a lot of history. In fact, I suspect that in the mayor’s office, there are pictures of his colleagues.

Back to the mayor’s wedding. The pictures were just phenomenal. Brilliant scenery and waters from Lake Malawi. How I wished Blantyre was as beautiful as this scenery. Perhaps my solace comes from knowing that Chalamanda appreciates nice things. I believe he cannot stand the fact that he has the most beautiful wedding by the lake and then he drives into town to the dirtiest place on earth. It just does not make sense. So I can visualise Chalamanda being angry. He wants to bring back the Blantyre Zoo which was closed a long time ago. He is wondering what sort of city has no zoo. He is asking what sort of city has no dam where residents can go and sail, take pictures and sit close by to have a meal or just watch the sun go down. The mayor is determined not to let the Mudi River mess up his name by the stench that comes from its dirty waters. He is wondering, I am sure, how to make the city parks at Catholic Institute (CI), Blantyre Golf Club, Maone and others functional again. How can he claim the parks from being dens for thieves to pleasant places for lovers and families?

Let me congratulate the State House. I have written this before, but in the negative. The sentry stations at Sanjika Palace first gates were an eyesore and an embarrassment to the presidency. Last time I complained about this, the powers that seemed to be, half painted the structures, but the rest of the problems were left intact. The lack of toilets, the stench and neglect was there for all who cared to see. The situation is changing. There are real repairs going and the sentries are now motivated, I believe, to protect the first couple.