Support cultural events, legislators called
Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda has called on members of Parliament (MPs) to support and attend cultural festivals within their constituencies.
Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, the minister emphasised the role of cultural ceremonies in preserving the heritage of Malawi’s ethnic groups.
“It is disheartening to see that many MPs rarely patronise these important cultural festivals. They are not just social gatherings, but a crucial part of our identity as a nation,” said Chimwendo Banda.
The minister also stressed that cultural ceremonies serve as vital platforms for communities to pass down traditions, customs and languages to future generations.
Chimwendo Banda urged public and private sectors to provide financial support to cultural festivals.
“We need to change our attitude towards these festivals and remember that this is not a one-man show. These festivals should be seen as investments in our cultural heritage that deserve our support,” he added.
The minister’s call comes at a time when there is perceived growing erosion of cultural values in the face of modernisation and globalisation as evidenced by fewer number of youths who dance traditional dances such as ingoma. However, cultural ceremonies continue to be held across the nation with organisers seeking financial support.
Recently, organisers of the Mlowe Cultural Arts Festival held a fundraising event with the co-director Annabelle Jaccard appealing for financial support. The event will take place in November at Mlowe in Rumphi.
