The Chewa Heritage Foundation (CHEFO) has called on ethnic groups in the country including Chewas to be proud of their culture, customs and traditions.
Former CHEFO chair, Professor George Kanyama Phiri, made the call in Lilongwe where he was a guest of honour at a fundraising event by the foundation.
The money raised is meant to cater for logistical arrangements for the annual Kulamba event which will take place on 27th August 2022 at Mkaika in Zambia.
“I am expecting CHEFO to send a large delegation to the Kulamba ceremony next month. Let us learn to embrace our culture and spearhead various developments within our jurisdictions,” Phiri said
On his part, the current CHEFO Chairperson, Stanley Chakhumbila Khaira, said he is optimistic that a lot of people will participate in this year’s Kulamba ceremony.
He argued that there is no sin in being initiated into the Gulewamkulu culture as some people tend to think.
“We are not ashamed to call ourselves Chewas, I would like to appeal to all to attend the Kulamba ceremony this year. And I would like to appeal for financial contributions from well-wishers towards this big event,” he said.
He also hailed all those that attended the Civo event
Speaking on behalf of Members of Parliament present at the event, Dowa East Parliamentarian, Richard Chimwendo Banda, said as a Chewa he will encourage fellow legislatures to uphold discipline in their endeavours.
Traditional leaders from Chikwawa, Mwanza, Thyolo, Blantyre Ntcheu, Mangochi and other cultural groups like the Ngonis also graced the event.
Also in attendance were several cabinet ministers
The event showcased several traditional performances including Gulewamkulu set to perform at the 2022 Kulamba ceremony too.
