PRESIDENT CHAKWERA JOINS NGONIS IN CELEBRATING UNITY AND HERITAGE AT UMTHETHO 2025

His Excellency Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi, on Saturday joined the Ngoni people at the Hora Heritage Centre in Mzimba for the 2025 Umthetho Festival, a vibrant annual gathering that celebrates cultural heritage, unity, and identity.

In his address, President Chakwera praised the Ngoni for preserving their traditions while contributing to national unity, stressing that although Malawians may differ in cultural expression, they share the same foundational values: Umunthu (humanity), Ubale (relationships), Ubwenzi (friendship), Ulemu (respect), and Umodzi (unity).

“These values are the glue that binds us together as one people,” said the President. “Our traditions should never be traded for money, politics, or foreign influence. When we safeguard our heritage, we safeguard our future.”

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in Mzimba’s development, citing increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations and infrastructure projects aligned with the five pillars of the 2025 Manifesto. He noted that these initiatives will thrive only if communities remain united and rooted in their shared values.

The Umthetho Festival, attended by traditional leaders, government officials, and citizens from across the country and the diaspora, showcased colourful cultural displays, traditional dances, and the reaffirmation of Ngoni customs. President Chakwera commended the organisers for creating a platform that reinforces pride in Malawi’s diverse cultural tapestry.

The President concluded his remarks by calling on all Malawians to embrace their heritage as a source of strength and unity, reminding the nation that cultural preservation is integral to building a prosperous future.