JK: Diplomacy will be used in dispute

Wednesday, 16 January 2013 23:03

By Frank Kimboy The Citizen Reporter Dar es Salaam. Tanzania and Malawi border dispute was one of the issues discussed during President Jakaya Kikwete’s meeting with the Africa Union chairman, Benin President Boni Yayi. The two presidents met at the State House yesterday during the AU chairman’s tour of various African countries to discuss economic and political issues on the continent. President Yayi commended President Kikwete for pursuing diplomatic means in resolving the Lake Nyasa border dispute that had persisted for decades. “President Kikwete briefed me about the issue, but what I can say is that I commend the wisdom that he is using in trying to resolve the issue,” said Mr Yayi. Responding to questions from reporters, President Kikwete reiterated his stand that the dispute would be resolved diplomatically. Some reporters from Benin expressed their worries that such a dispute could lead to civil war. “I don’t anticipate any war between the two countries. I am sure this issue will be ended diplomatically,” insisted President Kikwete. Tanzania and Malawi have been embroiled in a border dispute for decades. While Malawi maintains that it owns the entire northern portion of Lake Nyasa, Tanzania wants the border to be in the middle of the lake. Currently, the two countries are involved in discussions chaired by former Mozambican President Joachim Chisano. Other issues which were discussed by the two presidents included the Madagascar political crisis and conflicts between Mali and Islamist rebels. On Madagascar, President Kikwete commended Mr Andry Rajoelina for his decision to honour a recovery road map after declaring that he won’t run for the presidency in the May general election.