Mnangagwa says Zimbabweans stand with grieving Malawi

Zimbabwe stands in solidarity with Malawi following the tragic death of Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine others in a plane crash, President Mnangagwa has announced. The crash, which occurred in northern Malawi due to bad weather, also claimed the life of former First Lady Ms. Shanil Dzimbiri. Dr. Chilima was 51.

President Mnangagwa expressed his condolences after signing a book of condolence at the Malawian Embassy in Harare, describing the event as a significant loss for the region. He emphasized the shared grief between Zimbabwe and Malawi and praised Dr. Chilima as a Pan-Africanist committed to continental integration.

In his condolence message, President Mnangagwa highlighted Dr. Chilima's contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting African unity. He extended heartfelt sympathies to the families of the deceased and the people of Malawi, wishing them strength during this difficult time.

Dr. Chilima will be buried in his home village of Nsipe, Ntcheu, following a public body viewing ceremony at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe. Ms. Dzimbiri was buried on Friday. The Malawian government has honored Dr. Chilima with a state funeral and declared 21 days of mourning. The group had been traveling to attend the funeral of former government minister Ralph Kasambara.