By Burnett Munthali

The Government of Malawi, through the Ministry of Local Government, Unity, and Culture, has provided clarity on the substantial budget of K2.7 billion allocated for the construction of the Gwanda Chakwamba mausoleum. This announcement comes amid public scrutiny regarding the cost associated with the memorial, emphasizing that the funds encompass a comprehensive package of projects designed to honor the late political icon and freedom fighter.

Lovemore Mazibuko, the Director of Culture in the Ministry, explained that the mausoleum’s budget includes several critical components beyond the mausoleum structure itself. The allocated funds will cover the establishment of a library or information center, the construction of two staff houses, a car park, landscaping, and a tarmacked road connecting to the main road. Additionally, the rehabilitation of the late Chakwamba’s residence is part of this ambitious project.

“If you factor all these projects into this ‘mausoleum package,’ the amount of money rises to K2.7 billion, which is reasonable looking at the power of our currency,” Mazibuko stated. He emphasized that the mausoleum is not merely a standalone building but part of a broader initiative aimed at preserving the legacy of Gwanda Chakwamba. Mazibuko drew parallels with the mausoleum of another prominent figure, late Orton Chirwa, highlighting that no mausoleum in the world is built without an accompanying information center to educate visitors about the historical significance of the figure being honored.

Mazibuko further elaborated that the mausoleum for Orton Chirwa is also nearing completion, with expectations of finishing by December this year. He noted that several projects, including the construction of four houses for Chirwa’s relatives, have been underway for two years at the site.

In a show of appreciation, Senior Traditional Authority Chimombo from Nsanje district commended the government for moving forward with the construction of the Gwanda Chakwamba mausoleum as a fitting eternal resting place for the late leader. He remarked on Chakwamba’s significant contributions to the political and socioeconomic development of Malawi, particularly in the districts of Nsanje and Chikwawa.

“Late Chakwamba was a distinguished son of the soil who played a critical role in shaping the political and socioeconomic development of the country. He fought against injustice, inequality, and poverty for his people. He showed us a principled life,” Chimombo stated. He further praised Chakwamba’s humility and dedication to the welfare of others, noting how he helped pay school fees for the underprivileged and orphans, thereby motivating many to pursue education.

The tender for the mausoleum’s construction has been awarded to PMC Construction Limited, which will also oversee the development of a road named in honor of Gwanda Chakwamba, the Chakwamba Highway.

Born on April 4, 1934, Gwanda Chakwamba passed away on October 24, 2016, due to complications related to old age. A key figure during the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) regime under the late Kamuzu Banda, Chakwamba held several high-ranking cabinet positions before retiring from active politics during the first year of late President Bingu wa Mutharika’s administration.

As the mausoleum project progresses, it stands as a testament to the Malawian government’s commitment to preserving the legacies of its national heroes and fostering a deeper understanding of their contributions to the nation’s history.