Remembering Christina McKelvie MSP

The SMP is much saddened by news of the death of former Scottish Government International Development Minister, Christina McKelvie MSP.

A longstanding friend of the Scotland-Malawi relationship, Ms McKelvie spent time in Malawi supporting women’s leadership, championing equality and the election of female Parliamentarians. Ms McKelvie participated in the SMP’s campaign on the importance of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, choosing to highlight SDG 5: Gender Equality.

As Scotland’s Minister responsible for International Development, Christina McKelvie spoke in-person at the SMP’s Annual Gathering in Glasgow in November 2023 and devoted considerable time to stay to listen to and discuss Malawi’s priorities with senior representatives of the Government of Malawi. Her interest in Malawi and commitment to equalities was clear.

Malawi’s Minister of Tourism, Hon Vera Kamtukule commented:

“I am deeply saddened at the news of the passing of Hon Christina McKelvie MSP, a woman of vision, integrity and wisdom. My short encounter with her showed me what a patriot she was and most importantly her love for the people of Malawi and the work of the SMP and the MaSP in promoting mutually beneficial relations between the two countries. My sincere heartfelt condolences go to her family in this trying time."

Justice Agnes Patemba remarked:

“It was a true pleasure working with Christina. Her feminist approach to International Development highlighted her inner conviction for the empowerment of women and girls. The connection of friendship I made with Christina typifies the Scotland-Malawi relationship - sharing stories together as we did of motherhood, which I shall cherish.”

First Minister John Swinney described Christina McKelvie as “one of the kindest and most generous people I have ever met in my life” and “an outstanding minister”.

Ms McKelvie died in hospital in Glasgow aged 57, following a diagnosis of secondary breast cancer in June. She is survived by her partner, Keith Brown MSP, two sons and grandchildren, to whom the SMP extends sincere condolences.

Clips of some of Ms McKelvie’s speeches relating to Malawi can be heard at our 2023 AGM and News brief.