Great mothers awarded
It was all glamour and glitter at the Great Mothers’ Awards Gala at Sunbird Nkopola on Saturday where 12 women were recognised for different roles they have played in society.
Those awarded ranged from freedom fighters, human rights activists, philanthropists, mothers to the nation and career pacesetters.
Missing among the awardees were Rose Mkandawire, Sakkar Sacranie, Maria Chidzanja Nkhoma and Rose Chibambo, who was represented by her daughter.
President Joyce Banda cancelled her attendance 24 hours before the gala, something which did not go down well with some awardees.
But one of the event organisers, Dawa Loga-Lemberger, said the President had to attend another function in Mzuzu.
“The President cancelled her attendance due to tight schedule since she had to attend an event in the North. It meant she had to attend this event and leave for Brussels a few hours later,†she said.
One of the awardees, Mama Cecilia Kadzamira, thanked the organisers for the awards.
“It takes me back into the memory lane when the late president Dr [Hastings Kamuzu] Banda introduced Mother’s Day and celebrated it every year with a lot of pomp that mothers deserve.
“During Dr Banda’s rule, it was something that we looked forward to,†she said.
Veteran human rights activist Dr Vera Chirwa thanked the organisers for her recognition.
“I am touched and humbled by this gesture. I am, therefore, urging young women to emulate the example of the women that have been rewarded for being great mothers,†she said.
Awardees included Mai Dinala, who has been loyal to the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), co-founder of Jacaranda Foundation Marie da Silva, Justice Anastasia Msosa, Mrs Malewezi and the late Mrs PK Dossani.
Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture Daniel Liwimbi was guest of honour.
Held on the sidelines of the Sunbird Sand Festival, the event was spiced with music from Agorosso, Tigris, Lucky Stars Band Ben Mankhamba and Anna from Germany, among others.
