Govt commits to boost Malape Pillarsplan

Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture Michael Usi has reiterated government’s commitment to turn Malape pillars in Machinga to a world class tourism site.

Malape pillars are an impressive geological heritage at Lilomba Village, Traditional Authority Nsanama in Machinga.

The heritage, which has massive potential to turn around the misfortunes of the country’s economy, used to be a place of ancestors.

Usi said government has plans to preserve the heritage, package and market it for communities to reap benefits from it while also spurring the growth of tourism.

Speaking in an interview on Tuesday after launching Malape Cultural Troupe, Usi stressed government’s plan to invest in the area, saying this is part of Tonse Alliance’s promises to transform the country while also creating jobs.

“This historical site has potential to develop the area if it is well presented, managed and marketed. It is, therefore, my ministry’s mandate to see to it that it is invested to help communities benefit from it and also to stimulate the country’s earnings on tourism,” he said.

The minister said for the country to start benefiting from this heritage, there is a need to invest in the tourism sector and target presentation, management, accessibility and marketing of the site.

“It is for this reason that we are here today to mark the beginning of investing in Malape pillars for tourism development,” pointed out Usi.

To this end, he asked the cultural troupe members to commit themselves towards activities that will promote the heritage, saying the cultural outfit is pivotal in attracting tourists through their songs/displays.

In his remarks, Paramount Chief Kawinga thanked government for the well blended idea of investing in the place, saying this will put Machinga on the map while economically benefiting its subjects.

The troupe’s chairperson, Kawinga Ngopola pledged to join hands with all the members to effectively promote the heritage, saying it remains their aim to start benefiting from resources their area is endowed with.