Second Vice President Enoch Chihana joined Malawians in Mzuzu to pay tribute to soldiers who died in the two World Wars, reaffirming the nation’s gratitude and commitment to honouring their sacrifice.
By Burnett Munthali
Second Vice President Enoch Chihana on Sunday led Malawians in the northern city of Mzuzu in commemorating Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to honouring soldiers who died in service to humanity during the two World Wars.
The ceremony took place at the Mzuzu Cenotaph, where Chihana laid his wreath in tribute to the fallen heroes who fought for peace, freedom, and justice.
He was followed by the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Deputy Chief, Lieutenant General Kondwani Gift Karino, and Deputy Inspector General of Police responsible for Administration, Noel Kaira, who jointly laid their wreaths in remembrance.
Other senior government officials also participated in the wreath-laying ceremony, including the First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Victor Musowa.
Daniel Chintonya represented the Leader of Opposition in Parliament and also laid a wreath in honour of the departed soldiers.
Mzuzu City Council Chief Executive Officer Gomezgani Nyasulu represented the Mayor of the city and paid tribute on behalf of the municipal leadership.
The ceremony, which drew participation from both government and civil society, served as a reminder of the enduring value of courage, sacrifice, and unity.
According to historical records, about 30,000 Malawian soldiers fought in the two World Wars, serving across different regions including Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, Burma, and Jamaica.
Their contribution remains one of Malawi’s most significant demonstrations of global solidarity and bravery during some of the world’s darkest moments.
Earlier this week, President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, while launching the Poppy Week, pledged to revamp rehabilitation programmes for military camps housing veterans across the nation.
The President emphasised that the government remains committed to ensuring that those who served the country with honour are cared for and remembered with dignity.
Remembrance Sunday, also known as Poppy Day, is observed globally on the second Sunday of November each year.
The day symbolises national gratitude for the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in wars and peacekeeping missions, and it continues to unite nations under the shared values of peace and humanity.
In Mzuzu, the ceremony concluded with a moment of silence as the crowd reflected on the courage and patriotism of those who paid the ultimate price for freedom.
Through this annual observance, Malawians reaffirmed their respect for the fallen and their hope for a world built on peace, justice, and remembrance.
