The unveiling of a tombstone for the first Tumbuka leader, Chikulamayembe I, will be the centerpiece of this year’s Gonapamuhanya Cultural Festival, it has emerged.
The event takes place on November 14 and 15 at the Kadumuliro Cultural Site in Bolero, Rumphi District.
The two-day festival will be celebrated under the theme ‘Culture and integrity: The backbone of development.’
In an interview with The Nation on Wednesday, national organising chairperson Jean Chilinda emphasised that this year’s festival holds special significance.
Chilinda said: “What makes this occasion unique is the identification of the burial site of the first Tumbuka chief. We will use the festival to erect his tombstone. This has generated tremendous excitement, and we are receiving numerous calls from people eager to participate.”
The budget for this year’s festival is set at K153 million.
“Stakeholders are stepping forward with contributions,” said Chilinda, adding: “and we are confident the full amount will be raised.”
Traditional dance, historical recitations and the sharing of mkontho (traditional opaque beer) will be other key features of the festival. For the Tumbuka people, it is anticipated occasion to reconnect with their origins and celebrate their heritage.
“This is the day our people long for,” said Chilinda. “We have traditional dances, mkontho and a reminder of our history. This platform showcases everything central to Tumbuka tradition.”
Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Patricia Wiskies highlighted the importance of such gatherings.
“Cultural festivals like these are vital,” she said. “They bring people together to share traditional values and are the best way to pass our heritage onto the next generation.”
Last year’s event attracted high-profile dignitaries, including senior government officials, former Malawi president Joyce Banda, leaders of various political parties and paramount chiefs from different tribes.
