(By Vinjeru Ngwira)
Preparations are in full swing for the 2025 edition of the Umthetho Cultural Festival, a major annual event that celebrates Ngoni heritage and traditions. The festival, held at the historic Hora Heritage Site in Mzimba, is expected to attract thousands of people from across Malawi and beyond.
Charles Zimba, Chairperson of the Resource Mobilization Committee, has expressed satisfaction with how the preparations are progressing. He said a number of activities have already been lined up in the build-up to the main event, including the popular M’mbelwa Night and a successful golf tournament.
Zimba emphasized that the organizing committee is working hard to meet their ambitious budget of K300 million. He called on individuals, companies, and organizations to lend their support to the festival, saying collective efforts will make the event a success.
Unlike in previous years, Zimba revealed that the committee is not only focusing on raising money but is also seeking partnerships. He explained that sponsors who come on board should benefit from the event through exposure and meaningful engagement with festival-goers.
To ensure value for sponsors, this year’s Umthetho Festival will feature designated pavilions where companies and organizations can showcase their products and services, interact with the public, and create business networks.
Additionally, Zimba announced that the festival will include a special charity component. The proceeds from some activities will go towards buying desks for schools and renovating educational facilities in underserved communities.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Umthetho Organizing Committee, Emma Kaliya, has appealed to civil society organizations and other stakeholders to support the festival and participate actively by setting up displays to showcase their work.
Kaliya also issued a strong reminder that the festival is non-political. She stressed that attendees should not wear political party regalia or display party colors, as the event is meant to promote unity and cultural pride.
This year’s theme is “Cultural Diversity: Foundation for Peaceful Co-Existence and Development.” Organizers believe this message is timely and important as Malawi continues to embrace unity in diversity.
The 2025 Umthetho Cultural Festival will take place from August 6th to 9th at the iconic Hora Site in Mzimba. It promises a blend of cultural displays, traditional dances, music, and speeches aimed at preserving and promoting Ngoni culture.