By Suleman Chitera

Second Vice President Enock Chihana has reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting cultural festivals and heritage associations as part of efforts to promote national unity, tourism and sustainable development.

Chihana made the remarks on Saturday at Hora Heritage Site in Mzimba during this year’s Umthetho Cultural Festival, held under the theme “Mzimba United for Land Preservation and Sustainable Development.”

He described the annual festival as an important platform for showcasing Ngoni culture and heritage while promoting unity and social cohesion among Malawians.We didn’t campaign for personal glory – Chihana

Chihana said cultural events allow people to learn about and appreciate the traditions, values and way of life of different ethnic groups, describing culture as an important part of Malawi’s national identity.

“Culture is responsible for all that makes us, what we eat, wear and how we speak. It is our indelible identity,” he said.

The Second Vice President said government wants cultural heritage associations to establish permanent festival arenas capable of attracting tourists and visitors throughout the year, rather than only during annual celebrations.

He commended the organisers of the Umthetho Cultural Festival for constructing permanent houses designed in the traditional Ngoni style at the festival venue, saying the developments had strengthened the cultural identity and appearance of the site.Enock Chihana: A super patriot in modern Malawi politics

Chihana also praised Malawians for maintaining unity despite the country’s diverse ethnic groups, saying national cohesion remains essential to the country’s development.

M’mbelwa outlines tourism ambitions

In his remarks, Paramount Chief M’mbelwa V said there are ambitious plans to transform Hora Heritage Site into a major tourist destination.

He said the plans include the construction of a hotel, golf course and dormitories, among other facilities.

However, M’mbelwa V appealed to investors to partner with the Mzimba Heritage Association, saying the association cannot implement the ambitious projects on its own.

He said cultural festivals such as Umthetho can play an important role in developing tourism products while creating economic opportunities for communities.

Speaking under the festival theme, M’mbelwa V also called on traditional leaders to take a leading role in conserving natural resources, including forests and mineral resources.second vice President, Enoch Chihana, promises food and fertiliser stability in Mzuzu visit

The Umthetho Cultural Festival brought together traditional leaders, government officials, politicians and members of the public to celebrate and promote Ngoni culture and heritage.

Among the dignitaries who attended the event were former Vice President Khumbo Kachali, former Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara, Vice President Jane Ansah and other senior officials.