For fear of being extinct—Mulhako wa Alhomwe

There are a number of ethnic groups in Malawi. These groups were naturally formed and came from various parts of the world. The groups were created to represent people in various ways. One of these ethnic groups is that of the Lhomwe people

Located a few metres away from Luchenza, Chonde in Mulanje District is the place where  the headquarters of the Lhomwe tribe is located. The place was founded by the former president of Malawi Bingu wa Mutharika, the board of trustees and the Lhomwe chiefs.

The Lhomwe people originated from Mozambique and settled in the southern part of Malawi. Others settled in Zomba but most of them settled at the foot of the Mulanje Mountain. The group came in 12 various groups some of which are the Amilauani, Amanyala, Amatha, Alikhukhu, Amalivothi and the famous Agulu.

Having seen that the Lhomwe culture was declining administrator for the Mulhako heritage, Muchanakhwaye Mpulaka says this is when they thought of establishing the Mulhako wa Alhomwe event to infuse the culture in the people.

“It was a pity to see the Lhomwe people who were not aware of their own practices and beliefs. People did not know their dances, food and languages. We, therefore, thought of coming up with this place to showcase our culture,” explains Mpuluka.

The country consists of over 4 million Lhomwe people who come from various parts of the country. These are people who love their culture and together they help with the little they have to fund the Mulhako wa Alhomwe event which was introduced on October 28 in 2008.

The Lhomwes have various cultural aspects which distinguish them from other ethnic groups. Some of these are their dances which include Soopa, Malathu—a dance done by elderly women, selebwede and the chinamwali dance.

The group is also known for its famous plant gondolosi. This plant is said to be of great significance in a man’s sexual life as it helps him to be strong and good in bed. Yums is also another plant which is cherished and eaten by the Lhomwe.

At their headquarters in Chonde, various Lhomwe aspects are showcased. Some of their houses (Namulukuwa), moulded pots and plates, traditional medicine (Gondolosi), ancient clothes and bows and arrows (Mithungo).

On the celebration day, numerous activities take place to entertain, educate and inform the Lhomwe and other patrons who attend the function. Some of the activities are competitions between traditional dancers, and showcasing of their heritage.

The day also unveils young boys and girls who were put in the initiation ceremony three days before the event. As per tradition, these youngsters perform dances with their upper part of the body undressed.

Both drinkers and none drinkers are given a reason to smile about as various local brews and drinks are served at the event celebrating the Lhomwe heritage

This year marks the 5th anniversary of the Mulhako wa Alhomwe. The celebrations fall on the 27th of October at Chonde in Lunchenza.