Umthetho critical in strengthening country’s unity:

Umthetho critical in strengthening country’s unity

By Kondanani Chilimunthaka

President Lazarus Chakwera has described the Umthetho cultural festival of the Mzimba Ngoni as critical in strengthening the country’s unity.

Chakwera made the remarks at Hora in Mzimba on Saturday, 3rd August 2024 during this year’s Umthetho celebration which is an annual festival for Ngoni of Mzimba.

Speaking at the footsteps of Hora mountain, where the event took place, President Chakwera commended His Royal Majesty, Inkosi Ya Makhosi M’Mbelwa V for making Umthetho, a national celebration.

“Your majesty, I must thank you for your efforts in using Ngoni culture to promote national unity. You could have easily made the Ngoni festival like this, an exclusive affair, but you chose to make it a national celebration by inviting Malawians from all over the country to celebrate with you” said President Chakwera.

The President added that such festivals like Umthetho are key in preserving culture and promoting the tourism industry in Malawi.

Added the President; “,As you know your majesty, the preservation of Malawi’s rich and diverse culture is very high on my administration’s agenda, not only because it is the primary source of moral fortitude and national unity for our country and our citizens, but also because of the potential of cultural festivals like this one to function both as tourist attractions that stimulate economic activity and as a platform for building cultural relations with our neighbors and other nations beyond”

In his remarks during the event that coincided with 10 years celebration of his reign as King of Mzimba Ngoni, Inkosi Ya Makhosi M’Mbelwa commended President Chakwera for gracing the event and the assistance rendered towards the celebrations, urging his subjects to stick to their culture.

“As chiefs we thank you for having a loving heart. You always be with us in all cultural events regardless of the tribe which gives us strength to work with you and support your agenda” said His Royal Majesty, Inkosi Ya Makhosi M’Mbelwa V.

Just like last year, this year’s Umthetho cultural festival has been held under the theme: “Tradition, Catalyst to Fight Climate Change”.