By Chisomo Phiri
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has stressed that safeguarding the country’s cultural heritage is key to fostering unity and strengthening national identity.
The president made the remarks on Saturday at Nkolimbo Village in Ntcheu, where he attended the Maseko Ngoni’s annual cultural festival,Umhlangano.
Chakwera noted that the spirit of shared responsibility, as exemplified by the Maseko Ngoni, plays an important role in the country’s development.
“Cultural events such as the Umhlangano provide a platform for intercultural exchange. They bring people from diverse backgrounds together,” he said.
The Malawi leader also commended Inkosi Ya Makosi Gomani V for his visionary leadership in championing cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and education.
In his remarks, Inkosi Ya Makosi Gomani V called for unity among all cultural groups in the country.
He described the gathering as a significant occasion where the Ngoni uphold cultural values and honour the spirits of their ancestors.
“Culture is very important because it helps us to understand where we come from and where we are going,” said Gomani V.
Maseko Ngoni communities from the country and abroad including South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique took part in this year’s Umhlangano celebrations.
