By Suleman Chitera
Former President Arthur Peter Mutharika has announced that government will meet all funeral expenses for members of the Hive Band who tragically lost their lives in a horrific road accident on Friday.
In a heartfelt condolence message, Mutharika said he and the First Lady were deeply heartbroken by the loss, describing the deceased as far more than musicians.
“These were not just musicians. They were instrumental figures whose passion and artistry helped shape the soul of Malawi’s music industry for many years,” he said.
The former president noted that the tragedy is a profound loss not only to Eli Njuchi, with whom the band closely worked, but also to the entire nation.
“Their passing is a devastating blow to the very heart of our nation. It leaves a painful void in our cultural fabric,” Mutharika added.
He further lamented that the artists lost their lives while traveling to bring joy to Malawians at an end-of-year concert in Lilongwe, a mission that underscored their commitment to music and service to the public.
The deceased Hive Band members have been identified as:
- Elivacy Matamando Muyaba
- Wilfred Kupengule Jnr
- Vincent Mkwinda
- McFarlen Banda
- Raphael Chitsonga
The announcement that government will shoulder funeral costs has been widely welcomed, with many Malawians describing it as a fitting tribute to artists whose music touched countless lives.
