Suleman Chitera 
By Suleman Chitera
NTCHEU, MALAWI — Prophet Shepherd Bushiri has praised Inkosi Ya Makhosi Gomani V for using traditional leadership as a platform to promote faith in God, strong moral values and the preservation of Malawi’s rich cultural heritage.
Bushiri made the remarks after attending the uMhlangano in his home district of Ntcheu, an event that brought together people to celebrate heritage, culture, identity and the values that bind communities together.
The renowned Malawian prophet attended the gathering alongside his wife, describing the experience as both inspiring and deeply meaningful.
Bushiri said he was particularly inspired by hearing Inkosi Ya Makhosi Gomani V speak about God and encourage his kingdom to uphold strong moral standards.
According to Bushiri, traditional heritage becomes even more meaningful when it is anchored in righteousness, wisdom and reverence for God.
“As a prophet of God, I believe our heritage is most powerful when it is guided by righteousness, wisdom, and the fear of God,” Bushiri said.
Bushiri: Heritage Must Shape the Next Generation
Bushiri emphasized that preserving culture should not simply be about celebrating traditions of the past, but also about identifying and protecting the values that can positively shape future generations.
He called on Malawians to preserve what is good in their respective cultures, respect those who came before them and ensure that young people understand the importance of their identity and heritage.
For Bushiri, cultural pride and moral responsibility should go hand in hand.
He said communities have a responsibility to raise a generation that understands where it comes from while also possessing the values, discipline and purpose needed to build a better future.
The prophet’s comments place particular emphasis on the role of traditional leaders in guiding communities beyond cultural ceremonies and into matters affecting social and moral development.
A Proud Malawian
Bushiri also used the occasion to express his pride in his origins and his connection to the people of Ntcheu.
“I am proud of my roots, proud of my people, and proud to be Malawian,” he said.
His remarks have added another dimension to the growing conversation in Malawi about the importance of culture, traditional leadership, faith and national identity.
The uMhlangano provided an opportunity for people to reconnect with their heritage while celebrating traditions that have been passed from one generation to another.
Faith and Culture
Bushiri’s message also highlighted the relationship between faith and cultural identity.
Rather than viewing heritage simply as a collection of customs and historical practices, he argued that cultural values can provide a strong foundation for communities when they are accompanied by wisdom, righteousness and respect for God.
His message comes at a time when questions surrounding cultural preservation, youth values and the role of traditional leadership continue to attract public attention in Malawi.
Traditional leaders remain influential custodians of culture and community identity, while religious leaders continue to play a significant role in promoting moral and social values.
Bushiri’s remarks therefore bring together two important pillars of Malawian society—traditional heritage and faith.
Celebrating Roots, Building the Future
The prophet’s participation in the Ntcheu gathering also underscored his continuing connection to his home district and his pride in his Malawian roots.
For Bushiri, celebrating one’s heritage should not mean remaining trapped in the past. Instead, he believes the positive values inherited from previous generations should be carried forward and used to inspire a better future.
His call for young people to carry Malawi’s heritage “with dignity and purpose” reflects a broader appeal for cultural pride to be accompanied by personal responsibility.
The message from Ntcheu is therefore one that goes beyond a single cultural gathering: know your roots, respect your heritage, honour those who came before you, uphold strong moral values and use your identity as a foundation for the future.
As Malawi continues to celebrate its diverse cultures and traditions, Bushiri believes the country’s heritage can remain a powerful force for unity and positive transformation when guided by righteousness, wisdom and the fear of God.
Malawi Freedom Network will continue bringing you stories on Malawi’s culture, traditional leadership, religion, politics and personalities shaping the country’s future.
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