By Durell Namasani
Renowned photographer Ras Peter Kansengwa has passed away following a prolonged battle with illness, leaving Malawi’s creative community in mourning.
Kansengwa died on Friday afternoon at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe after a three-year struggle with abdominal cancer and complications related to kidney failure, according to family spokesperson Faster Abdullah Mtenje.
Despite seeking advanced medical treatment in India, the celebrated photographer’s condition continued to deteriorate. Mtenje confirmed that funeral arrangements are underway, with a burial service scheduled for Saturday at Area 21 in Lilongwe, followed by interment at Area 18 Cemetery.
The news of Kansengwa’s passing has sent shockwaves through Malawi’s arts and media community, with tributes pouring in across social media platforms.
“Malawi has lost a visual storyteller who captured our nation’s soul through his lens,” wrote fellow photographer Thandiwe Banda on Facebook. “Ras Peter didn’t just take pictures; he preserved our history, our culture, and our identity. His work will live forever.”
On Twitter, journalist Chimwemwe Mhango posted: “Rest in power, Ras Peter Kansengwa. Your photographs told stories words could never express. You elevated Malawi’s visual arts to international standards. We have lost a giant.”
Another admirer, creative arts promoter Blessings Mwale, shared: “I remember when Ras Peter mentored young photographers at the cultural centre. He gave so much back to the community. His legacy isn’t just in his images but in the countless photographers he inspired.”
Kansengwa was widely regarded as one of Malawi’s most distinguished photographers, known for his distinctive ability to capture intimate moments of everyday Malawian life alongside formal portraiture of the country’s political and cultural figures. His career spanned decades, documenting Malawi through periods of significant social and political change.
“I had the privilege of working with Ras Peter on several projects,” wrote artist and curator Mwiza Munthali. “His professionalism was unmatched, but it was his warmth and humility that truly set him apart. He made everyone feel comfortable in front of his camera.”
The arts community has called for a fitting tribute to honour Kansengwa’s contributions to Malawi’s cultural landscape. His passing marks the end of an era for Malawian photography, but his extensive body of work ensures his vision and talent will continue to inspire future generations.
Kansengwa is survived by his family, who have requested privacy during this difficult time. The funeral service will take place on Saturday morning at his Area 21 residence before proceeding to Area 18 Cemetery for burial.
