Ngoni King Calls for Unity on Climate Change at Anniversary Celebration
The Umthetho festival, which combines cultural celebration with calls for national unity and development, continues to grow in significance.
MZIMBA, Malawi— His Majesty Inkosi ya MaKhosi M'mbelwa V marked his tenth anniversary as Ngoni king Saturday, using the annual Umthetho cultural festival to call for action on climate change and political peace, writes Tionge Hara.
The celebration, held at Hora Mountain, drew government officials and visitors from across Africa, highlighting this year's theme of "Uniting Against Climate Change."
M'mbelwa V emphasized the need for environmental preservation and community development.
"The theme of this year's Umthetho festival revolves around the harmonization of future prospects with the pressing issues of climate change to protect our environment," he said. "I urge you all the Ngonis to know how to preserve our natural resources."
The king called for government support in developing tourism at Hora and preserving the Ngoni language. He also proposed increased investment in agriculture, tourism, and mining sectors in the Mzimba district.
Addressing the upcoming 2025 general election, M'mbelwa V urged politicians to conduct peaceful campaigns. "Focus on presenting your manifestos rather than resorting to mudslinging," he advised.
President Lazarus Chakwera, who attended the ceremony, praised the event's unifying power.
"Cultural festivals like the Umthetho Festival unify and demonstrate the power of unity in the country," Chakwera said. "Unity is what we need if we are to fulfill the aspirations of the Malawi 2063 goals."
The president pledged continued government support for the region through various development programs, including the Agricultural Input Programme and infrastructure development.
"I assure you, the Ngoni people of Mzimba, that you will continue to reap the benefits of the national flag programme currently being implemented by the government," Chakwera stated.
Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, commended the Mzimba Heritage Foundation for aligning the festival's themes with national priorities. He urged other ethnic groups to emulate the Umthetho's innovative concepts.
"We need to fulfill our aspirations and strive for sustainable development," Chimwendo Banda said.
He also called on all Malawians to refrain from violence and foster unity.
The celebration drew praise from international visitors. Winnie Mandela, a visitor from Kenya, expressed excitement about the ceremony.
"Seeing the President present was a milestone for me," she said in an interview.
The Umthetho festival, which combines cultural celebration with calls for national unity and development, continues to grow in significance.
As Malawi faces challenges ranging from climate change to political tensions, events like these offer a platform for leaders to address key issues while celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage.
*Additional reporting by Winston Mwale