NICO hails Mulhako Wa Alomwe as beacon of cultural heritage donates K200Million 

Malawi Exclusive

NICO Group has described culture as a beacon of heritage and identity, pledging continued support towards preservation of Malawi’s cultural heritage.

Speaking at Chonde in Mulanje during this year’s Mulhako Wa Alomwe festival, NBS Bank Chief Wholesale Banking Officer Alfred Nhlema, who spoke on behalf of One NICO Group, said the gathering was not merely a cultural celebration but a celebration of a people, their history, identity and future.

He said this year’s theme, “Heritage Preservation for Sustainable Development,” challenges Malawians to reflect on who they are, where they come from and what they will leave behind for future generations.

“A people who forget their roots eventually lose their direction. And a nation that loses its identity risks losing its soul,” said Nhlema.

He emphasized that heritage must not only be remembered but made relevant, saying culture should live in homes, schools, communities and economies, turning traditional knowledge and values into economic opportunities for sustainable development.

The NICO Group official said heritage preservation and environmental sustainability cannot be separated, stressing the need to protect natural resources for future generations.

He said at One NICO Group, which includes NBS Bank Plc and Eris Properties, they believe business must not only create value but also preserve values.

He disclosed that this year, One NICO Group has contributed K200 million in cash and over K50 million in kind, a combined investment exceeding K250 million towards Mulhako Wa Alomwe.

He said through One NICO expression, the Group also supports other cultural festivals including Umthetho, Umhlangano wa Maseko Ngoni, Chiwanja Cha A Yao and Gonapamuhanya, because Malawi’s diversity is a national treasure to be celebrated.

“We do not need to become the same to become one. The beauty of Malawi lies in our ability to remain proudly different, yet powerfully united,” said Nhlema.

The event was graced by Guest of Honour, Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development Hon. Joseph Mwanamvekha, Her Royal Highness Paramount Chief Kaduya, Governor of Zambezia Province in Mozambique H.E. Pio Matos, Mulhako Wa Alomwe Board Chairperson Muchanakhwaye Mpuluka and other trustees.