Mutharika underscores importance of preserving culture

President Peter Mutharika has underscored the importance of preserving culture as one way of strengthening unity among Malawians in the country.

Mutharika made the remarks on Friday night at this year’s Mulhako wa Alhomwe fundraising dinner and dance held at College of Medicine Sports Complex in Blantyre.

He said cultural roots and background of each tribe should not bring differences among tribes, but rather strengthen unity among Malawians who have a background of living in harmony.

“As human beings, we live and exist for each other; therefore, the cultural grouping such as Mulhako wa Alhomwe should also benefit other people countrywide,” said Mutharika.

Earlier, Minister of Sports and Culture, Grace Chiumia said the President has a passion of promoting different cultures regardless of political affiliations.

Jean Namathanga, trustee of Mulhako wa Alhomwe, said the cultural grouping shall continue to hold commemorations every year as it values the importance of embracing culture.

Mulhako wa Alhomwe, which was initiated by the late president Bingu wa Mutharika in 2008, this year will hold its celebrations on November 8 at its headquarters at Chonde in Mulanje District.

Meanwhile, chairperson of the organising committee of Friday’s  fundraising dinner and dance, James Chuma, has said the treasury was, as of yesterday, still reconciling the figures to find out how much was raised, adding that many people contributed through pledges.

Chuma said: “People were generous enough to take part and make substantial contributions. We thank them for their support.—Additional reporting by FRANK NAMANGALE, News Analyst