The old adage that a ‘dark cloud has fallen’ may sound cliché, but in Madzanje, Ntcheu yesterday the feeling was literal. Maseko Ngonis followed every traditional ritual as they bade goodbye to their leader Inkosi Kwataine.
There were Ingoma dancers, prayers and the Maseko Ngoni funeral rituals befitting a leader of that stature were performed.
During the funeral, there were drumbeats, Ingoma dances and chants, a sad farewell to Senior Chief Kwataine.
Kwataine, who died on Monday in Lilongwe, was buried at Madzanje Headquarters in Ntcheu as Ngoni warriors danced and mourned him.
In an earlier interview, Maseko Ngoni Heritage Trust chairperson Inkosi Makwangwala described the death of Kwataine as a heavy blow to the Maseko Ngonis.
“He was a custodian of our Maseko Ngoni culture. He was also the glue that brought our people together. He was also a development advocate,” he said.
Inkosi ya Makhosi Gomani V described the death of Kwataine as a huge loss to the Maseko Ngoni and Malawi in general.
Kwataine, 59, succumbed to diabetes and is survived by five children and three grandchildren.
