The National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, is providing sexual and reproductive health services to young people attending this year’s Mulhako wa Alhomwe Cultural Festival at Chonde Cultural Village in Mulanje.
Working with Mulanje Youth Organization, Chiringa Youth Organization and Change for Us, NYCOM is providing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) information and services, alongside personal development talks.
The initiative offers young people an opportunity to learn about their health, ask questions and discuss issues affecting their lives.
Thousands of people have gathered at Chonde since the festival opened on Friday, with the celebrations expected to reach their climax on Sunday.
NYCOM has since encouraged young people to visit its booth to access the services and participate in the personal development talks.
Meanwhile, Mulhako wa Alhomwe board chairperson Muchanakhwaye Mpuluka said the growing interest in Lhomwe culture and traditions was encouraging, noting that more people were seeking to understand the community’s beliefs.
“What is more interesting this year is that most people are actually asking questions about the Lhomwe culture and traditions, they want to understand our beliefs. This is very encouraging,” said Mpuluka.
He also encouraged people to visit Chonde Cultural Village to experience Lhomwe traditions, advising those planning to attend Sunday’s climax to arrive early as the festival continues to attract large crowds.
Mulhako wa Alhomwe was established in 2007 by the late former president Bingu wa Mutharika to preserve and promote Lhomwe culture and traditions.
The annual festival brings together people from across the country to celebrate their cultural heritage.
