Lilongwe, Malawi – In a SAD tribute to the late Vice President Saulos Chilima, Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera announced today that the newly constructed six-lane road in Lilongwe will bear Chilima’s name. The announcement, made during a memorial ceremony at Lunjika Turnoff in Mzimba, seeks to honor Chilima’s enduring legacy of hard work, unity, and humility.
The decision comes as Malawi grapples with the immense loss of Vice President Chilima and nine others in a tragic plane crash. President Chakwera expressed the desire to hold memorial ceremonies at all nine burial sites of the victims, acknowledging the widespread grief across the nation. He emphasized that despite varied gathering places, a spirit of unity prevails in remembering those lost.
“This accident is tragic, shocking, and heartbreaking,” President Chakwera stated, encouraging Malawians to mourn in their own way as the nation collectively grieves. The naming of the prominent thoroughfare after Chilima is seen as a lasting testament to his contributions to the nation.
Chakwera Is Not the First to do this : Here are Other Roads Named After Legends In other countries
The practice of naming roads and public spaces after revered figures is a global tradition, serving as a permanent reminder of their impact and legacy. Here are a few notable examples from around the world:
- Nelson Mandela Drive (South Africa): Countless roads, squares, and institutions across South Africa and indeed the world are named after anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President Nelson Mandela, celebrating his fight for freedom and equality.
- Martin Luther King Jr. Way (United States): Numerous streets in cities across the United States are named after the iconic civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., commemorating his tireless efforts for racial equality and justice.
- Mahatma Gandhi Road (India): In India, it is common to find major roads named after Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement against British rule, recognizing his philosophy of nonviolent resistance.
- John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway (United States): A number of highways and significant roads in the United States bear the name of former President John F. Kennedy, honoring his presidency and vision.
- Avenida de la Revolución (Mexico City, Mexico): While not named after a single individual, this major avenue commemorates the Mexican Revolution, acknowledging the collective effort and sacrifices made for the nation’s independence and social change.
The naming of the Lilongwe road after Saulos Chilima aligns with this global tradition, ensuring that his dedication to Malawi is remembered by generations to come.
KOMA IZI ZILI CHOMWECHI – ENA TSIKU LA LERO AMANGIDWA NDI APOLISI CHIFUKWA CHOPANGA ZOMWE BOMA LIMALETSA KUTI – NKHANI YAKE YOMWEYI KUWAMANGA? READ FULL STORY HERE
