People Together: Malawi–Scotland Partnerships Honoured in Edinburgh

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    On Tuesday the 20th January 2026, the Malawi–Scotland partnership was further strengthened when Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Honorary Patron of the Scotland Malawi Partnership (SMP), attended the Anthu Pamodzi photographic exhibition at Edinburgh City Chambers. The visit formed part of events marking the 20th anniversary of the Partnership, which continues to promote meaningful people-to-people links between Malawi and Scotland.

    The exhibition visit was hosted by the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Councillor Robert Aldridge, and brought together contributors whose work reflects the depth and diversity of cooperation between Malawian and Scottish institutions. The Scotland Malawi Partnership connects schools, universities, churches, civil society organisations and communities across Scotland with counterparts in Malawi, supporting collaboration in areas including health, education, clean water, renewable energy and sustainable livelihoods.

    Malawi’s longstanding relationship with Scotland, which dates back more than 160 years, is rooted in shared history and enduring friendship. Since gaining independence in 1964, Malawi has continued to build on these ties through partnerships founded on mutual respect, solidarity and shared development goals.

    During the visit, Her Royal Highness met with contributors to the exhibition and engaged with members of the Partnership, viewing photographs that showcase joint projects and community-level impact in Malawi. To mark the 20th anniversary, she was presented with a commemorative publication on the work of the Partnership, cut an anniversary cake, and received flowers from a Scottish student involved in a school partnership with Malawi.

    Commenting on the occasion, SMP Chair Professor Jeremy Bagg highlighted the importance of sustained engagement between the peoples of Malawi and Scotland and noted the continued support of the Partnership’s Honorary Patron since its establishment in 2005.

    While Malawi’s High Commissioner, Dr Bisika commented:

    “I appreciate the enduring people-to-people friendship that exists between Malawi and Scotland, and I thank Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal for personally contributing to the Scotland Malawi Partnership Malawi Appeal during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

    The exhibition, titled Anthu Pamodzi—meaning “People Together” in Chichewa—celebrates the shared efforts and friendships that underpin Malawi–Scotland cooperation. First launched in Killearn in September 2025, the exhibition will continue to tour across Scotland, including stops in Edinburgh, Innerleithen, Inverurie and other locations, further raising awareness of Malawi’s partnerships and the positive impact of collaborative development initiatives.