By Suleman Chitera
The preservation and promotion of culture remain central to Malawi’s sustainable development agenda, Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Dr Shadric Namalomba, has said.
Namalomba made the remarks on Saturday during the vibrant Imbizo Cultural Festival held at Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani V’s Royal Palace Grounds in Lizulu, Ntcheu District—an event that brought together Ngoni descendants from across Malawi and beyond.
Addressing thousands of people who thronged the royal grounds, the Minister underscored that culture is not merely a symbol of the past but a living pillar of national development.
“Development cannot be meaningful or sustainable if it is detached from our cultural heritage. Our values, traditions and identity give direction and purpose to national progress,” said Namalomba.
He commended the Maseko Ngoni for consistently organising Imbizo and other cultural platforms such as Umhlangano, describing them as powerful tools for fostering unity, strengthening identity and instilling pride among current and future generations.
Imbizo, which is held annually, is deeply rooted in Ngoni tradition. The event customarily begins with an ecumenical church service involving clergy from different denominations, symbolising unity and gratitude to God. This is followed by a royal engagement where the Ngoni king meets amakhosi (chiefs), impis (cabinet members), trustees and subjects to discuss both communal and national matters.
The gathering also serves as a moment of reflection—thanking God for the past year while seeking divine guidance, protection and blessings for the year ahead.
In his address, Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani V called on the Ngoni people to remain steadfast in observing their culture, stressing that cultural discipline is a proven pathway to meaningful and inclusive development.
He further urged Ngonis to uphold unity, love and gratitude to God, noting that social cohesion is essential for community growth and resilience.
Since its revival in 2016, Imbizo—literally meaning a gathering called by the king—has grown into a unifying cultural institution, bringing together Maseko Ngoni descendants from Malawi, South Africa and neighbouring Mozambique. The festival continues to stand as a testament to the enduring strength of culture in shaping identity, peace and development across generations.
