Upper Shire Anglican band is born

The dream of establishing a musical band has long at last come true for the Anglican Diocese of the Upper Shire.

Called Upper Shire Band (USB), the diocesan band was launched at Matope Anglican Parish in Neno during a colourful event to celebrate St Mary’s Day.
The band backed all the choirs that performed during the celebrations.

Directed by its stretchy person-in-charge, Gift Maguba, the band’s exploit was a declaration enough of “we are here to stay.”
But the band’s proclamation was regardless of the fact that the high-toned and ultra-modern speakers were rented.
And so the congregation headed out an unprompted contribution towards the procurement of the speakers.

About K500 000 was raised from the gathering with member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Mary Maulidi Khembo, donating K200 000.
“We cannot dispute the fact that this band is here not only to entertain us but also to evangelise,” said Khembo, who was the guest of honour at the celebration.
Head of the diocese, Bishop Brighton Vitta Malasa, said the setting up of USB was one of the fruits for youths’ participation in church activities.

“So, let us make the most of this band in all our events, including weddings and other get-togethers. In so doing, we will be taking part in evangelism,” he said.
The band will be stationed at the diocese’s cathedral at Mpondasi in Mangochi.