Umthetho: A Grand Unification of Mzimba's Cultural Heritage and Environmental Consciousness
This pilgrimage is a poignant testament to the rich history and profound respect that the people of Mzimba hold for their ancestors.
MZIMBA, Malawi: If you are in Malawi, or plan to visit Malawi soon (which we highly recommend), then prepare yourself to be swept away on a journey of cultural splendour and environmental awareness unlike any other, from August 9–12, 2023, write Winston Mwale & Tionge Hara.
It will be the moment for Umthetho: A Grand Unification of Mzimba's Cultural Heritage and Environmental Consciousness!
“From the 9th to the 11th, Mzimba will come alive with a series of captivating activities, including the Makhosi conference on environment and climate change, captivating youth gatherings, and empowering women's meetings,” says Kingsley Jere, the Secretary-General for Mzimba Heritage Association (MZIHA), the organisers of the cultural event.
“Set among the breathtaking peaks of Hora Mountain, you'll see His Majesty (shown above) respect the fallen Inkosi Ya Makhosi Mmbelwa 1 at his final resting place in Mzalangwe.”
This pilgrimage is a poignant testament to the rich history and profound respect that the people of Mzimba hold for their ancestors.
It is a mere few kilometres away from the breathtaking Hora Mountain, which will be hiked by His Majesty himself during the festivities.
Organised by the esteemed Mzimba Heritage Association (MZIHA), Umthetho seeks to bring together the people of Mzimba to celebrate their shared heritage and forge unbreakable bonds of unity.
This gathering serves as a platform for interaction, encouraging meaningful connections, and revitalising cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations.
“While some may question the purpose of such an event, it is precisely the challenge of orchestrating something so monumental that lends it an air of mystique and significance,” says Jere.
In this age of progress and modernity, it is essential to address the pressing issues that afflict our planet.
Umthetho echoes this sentiment by shining a spotlight on the detrimental practises that contribute to climate change.
“The wanton destruction of trees in the pursuit of planting millet and the unsustainable grazing practises employed for cattle rearing are matters that demand immediate attention,” the MZIHA Secretary-General says.
Through consciousness-raising discussions and focused conferences, the event endeavours to inspire change, urging participants to become stewards of the environment.
An assembly of esteemed guests from various parts of the African continent will grace the occasion, symbolising the widespread support and admiration for Umthetho.
Dignitaries from Zambia, Songea Tanzania, and South Africa, as well as the presence of distinguished figures like President Lazarus Chakwera and Vice President Saulos Chilima, exemplify the gravity and importance of this celebration.
Throughout the event, the Amakhosi will convene for thought-provoking conferences, while the Inkosikazi will be honoured on Thursday.
On Friday, August 11, 2023, the brave participants will embark on a sacred journey to pay respects at the grave, and, with hearts full of determination, ascend the awe-inspiring Hora Mountain.
In moments of respite, culinary delights from the region will tantalise taste buds, and on the final day, the crescendo will resound as Inkosi Mmbelwa himself addresses his people, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts and minds.
Umthetho is not merely a festival: it is a call to action. A call to preserve our natural world and safeguard it for future generations.
It entreats festival organisers worldwide to embrace cultural heritage as a powerful force for change, a catalyst for unity, and a shield against the ravages of climate change.
The Mzimba Heritage Association was founded in 2000 with the aim of preserving and promoting the heritage of the Ngoni people. The association has been organising the Umthetho Cultural Festival at Hora Mountain since 2007.
The Umthetho Cultural Festival is a celebration of Ngoni culture, history, and traditions. The festival features traditional music, dance, food, and crafts. It is an opportunity for Ngoni people from all over the world to come together and celebrate their shared heritage.
“Join us as we embark on this extraordinary journey, where the past meets the present, and a brighter future unfolds,” Jere calls.
Article Sponsored by Mzimba Heritage Association (MZIHA)
