Africa is mourning the loss of Malawi’s Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima, and former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri, who tragically died in a plane crash. Searchers have located the wreckage, confirming the devastating news.

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson D. Mnangagwa has extended his heartfelt condolences to Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera, the people of Malawi, and the bereaved families.

In his message, President Mnangagwa expressed deep sorrow:

“It is with a profound sense of shock and sadness that I received the devastating news of the fatal aircraft crash that claimed the lives of the Vice President of the Republic of Malawi, Honourable Chilima, as well as the former First Lady of Malawi, Madam Dzimbiri.

“On behalf of the government and people of Zimbabwe, and on my own behalf, I wish to extend to you, Your Excellency, to the government of Malawi, and to the families of the deceased, our heartfelt and deep sorrow,” said President Mnangagwa.

President Mnangagwa described the late Malawian Vice President Chilima as a significant figure in fostering positive relations between Zimbabwe and Malawi:

“The late Dr. Chilima will forever be remembered for his efforts in promoting bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and Malawi, as well as for his role in the integration of our African continent,” said President Mnangagwa.

Similarly, the President of Namibia echoed a message of condolence to President Chakwera and the people of Malawi.

“It is unfortunate that Vice President Chilima passed on at a time when he still had so much to offer to the people of Malawi and Africa,” said President Nangolo Mbumba.

The tragic loss of these prominent figures is a significant blow to Malawi and the African continent, and their contributions will be long remembered.