After a protracted diplomatic impasse over ownership of Lake Malawi, we are encouraged to hear that Malawi and Tanzania have taken the diplomatic route to find a lasting solution for the dispute.

The two countries have this week formally approached Sadc, through Mozambican former President Joachim Chissano who chairs the Sadc Forum of Former Presidents, to mediate in the stand off.

We agree that diplomacy must be given a chance before rushing to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Both countries must realise that this is no small matter because it involves sensitive issue of sovereignty. Inevitably citizens of the two countries are eagerly waiting to hear the final solution in the dispute.

While the forum might not have powers as those of ICJ to arbitrate over such sensitive border issues, we urge the former heads of state to use their wisdom, impartiality and common sense to avoid unnecessary confrontation that can fuel enmity between peoples of the two countries.

It is surprising that the border dispute has been simmering for over half a century now without a lasting solution. We therefore hope this time around a lasting solution will be found.

We wish President Chissano and his team good luck as they grapple with this contentious matter.