By Burnett Munthali
Hundreds of people have gathered at Sosola Village in Balaka District this morning as the late music icon Lucius Banda is honoured with the unveiling of a mausoleum at his home village. The memorial structure, built by Banda’s family and close friends, stands as a lasting tribute to his immense contribution to Malawi’s music industry and his lifelong advocacy for disadvantaged communities.
Banda’s widow, Sunganani Banda, expressed gratitude to all friends and supporters who contributed to the project. The chairperson of the mausoleum construction committee, Allan Esau Phiri—who is also Member of Parliament for Dedza East Golomoti—said the late musician’s legacy fully deserves such a final resting place. He reiterated plans to turn the mausoleum into a museum where the public can visit to learn about Lucius Banda’s biography and other aspects of his life and work. Phiri confirmed that K31 million has been invested in the project.
During the ceremony, the family officially launched the Lucius Banda Foundation, which the musician established during his lifetime to support marginalised communities through interventions in education, health, social welfare and economic empowerment.
UK-based business strategist and philanthropist Rhoderick Junaid Kalumpha, a member of the organising committee, described Banda as more than a celebrated musician, saying his influence is woven into Malawi’s social and cultural history. He noted that Banda’s music carried powerful messages reflecting the experiences and struggles of ordinary Malawians, making the preservation of his legacy vital for future generations.
Zembani Band leader Sam Simakweli, speaking at the event, said the band still deeply misses Lucius Banda but added that with Johnny Banda now taking over as lead vocalist, the band is moving forward and progressing.
The mausoleum unveiling and foundation launch will be followed by a free memorial music concert at Balaka Stadium later today. The concert is expected to feature some of Malawi’s leading musicians, including Lulu and Mathumela Band, Kell Kay, Phyzix, Coss Chiwalo, Dan Lu, Joseph Nkasa, Annie Matumbi, Sam Simakweli, Mlaka Maliro, Black Missionaries, Johnny Zembani Banda and Zembani Band, among others.
Jai Banda—popularly known as Mr Entertainer and the person who gave Lucius his famous “Soldier” stage name—is leading preparations for the concert. He said the organisers intend to give Banda a fitting musical tribute in recognition of the joy and inspiration he brought to Malawians throughout his career.
Lucius Chicco Banda, known to fans as Soldier Lucius Banda, was a singer‑songwriter, music producer and former Member of Parliament who used his music to address social and political issues affecting ordinary people. His career spanned more than three decades, with numerous successful albums—from his debut Son of a Poor Man to his final album Love and Hate in 2022. Banda passed away on 30 June 2024 at the age of 53 while receiving medical treatment in South Africa.
His son, Johnny Zembani Banda, who now fronts Zembani Band, said his father’s legacy will continue to be honoured and remembered. Today’s mausoleum unveiling has brought together family members, musicians, friends, public figures and fans to celebrate the life and enduring influence of one of Malawi’s most prominent musical figures.
