Festival Unites Karonga, Chitipa as Speaker Hara Lauds Cultural Preservation Efforts
Paramount Chief Kyungu expressed concern about eroding cultural values.
KARONGA, Malawi - Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara, representing President Lazarus Chakwera, praised northern Malawi's cultural unity during Saturday's Karonga Chitipa Cultural Festival at the historic Mbande Hills, writes writes Lusekero Mhango.
"Culture builds bridges between communities," Hara told the gathering, emphasizing how traditional practices can help address modern social challenges like rising suicide rates.
"In the past, our communities were more connected. People freely shared their burdens with neighbours."
The festival, now in its second year, showcases the rich heritage of Karonga and Chitipa districts under the theme "Unity in Diversity, Respect, and Justice for All."
Paramount Chief Kyungu expressed concern about eroding cultural values.
"Democracy shouldn't mean abandoning our traditions," he said.
"Respect for elders and unity across differences remain crucial for national development."
The event comes as Malawi grapples with preserving traditional practices while embracing modern changes. Malumbo Mwasinga, who chairs the Karonga Chitipa Heritage organization, urged increased government support for cultural preservation.
"These festivals do more than celebrate our past," Mwasinga said.
"They strengthen the social fabric that holds our communities together."