Senior government officials, parliament representatives, and war veterans gathered in solemn unity at the Zomba Memorial Tower to honour Malawi’s fallen heroes on Poppy Day.
By Burnett Munthali
Several dignitaries gathered at the historic Zomba Memorial Tower on Saturday to commemorate Poppy Day, a global occasion dedicated to remembering soldiers who sacrificed their lives in war.
The atmosphere was solemn yet dignified as leaders from different sectors of government joined war veterans and citizens in paying their respects to the men and women who fought for peace and freedom.
Among those who laid wreaths at the memorial was Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Esther Jolobala, who represented the Speaker of Parliament during the ceremony.
Her presence symbolized the commitment of the National Assembly to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who defended the nation and its allies in times of conflict.
Minister of Information and Government Spokesperson, Moses Kunkuyu, also laid a wreath on behalf of the Leader of Opposition, representing unity across political divides.
His gesture underscored the idea that remembrance transcends politics and unites all Malawians under a shared history of service and sacrifice.
Ward Themwe, a respected war veteran, also took part in the ceremony, laying a wreath in memory of his fallen comrades.
His participation added deep emotional weight to the occasion, reminding all present of the human stories behind the history — of bravery, hardship, and the enduring will to protect one’s nation.
The event at the Zomba Memorial Tower formed part of Malawi’s national Poppy Day commemorations, held annually to coincide with global Armistice Day observances.
Poppy Day, also known as Remembrance Day, marks the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, and pays tribute to all who have served and died in military conflicts since.
The red poppy, worn proudly by many attendees, stood as a symbol of remembrance and hope — a reminder that the bloodshed of the past must guide the pursuit of lasting peace.
As the wreaths were laid, the crowd observed a moment of silence, reflecting on the cost of war and the responsibility of the living to preserve peace.
The solemn bugle call of the Last Post echoed through the memorial grounds, stirring quiet emotion among those present.
In her remarks, Deputy Speaker Jolobala emphasized that the nation’s freedom and peace were built on the sacrifices of men and women whose names may never be known but whose courage remains eternal.
Minister Kunkuyu added that the unity displayed at the ceremony was a testament to Malawi’s shared values of patriotism, resilience, and respect for human dignity.
War veteran Ward Themwe urged younger generations to cherish the peace they enjoy today and to remember that it was earned through great sacrifice.
He also called for more recognition and support for Malawi’s surviving veterans, many of whom continue to live quietly in rural communities.
The Zomba Memorial Tower, which stands as one of Malawi’s oldest national monuments, was built to honour the African soldiers who fought under the King’s African Rifles during World War I and World War II.
Each year, it draws citizens, military personnel, and leaders from all walks of life to pay homage to the country’s unsung heroes.
This year’s ceremony reflected a deep sense of national pride and gratitude — not only for the fallen but for all those who continue to serve in defense of peace and justice.
As the event concluded, attendees left in quiet reflection, carrying with them the enduring message of Poppy Day: that remembrance is not merely about the past, but about safeguarding the future through unity and peace.
In Zomba and across Malawi, the red poppy continues to bloom as a symbol of both remembrance and renewal — a promise that the sacrifices of yesterday will never be forgotten.
