NICO Group has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Malawi’s cultural heritage and promoting sustainable development after announcing a contribution exceeding K250 million towards the 2026 Mulhako wa Alhomwe Cultural Festival at Chonde in Mulanje.
The contribution comprises K200 million in cash and more than K50 million in kind, underscoring the group’s commitment to supporting cultural preservation, community development and national unity.
Speaking at the festival, NICO Group’s representative Alfred Nhlema said the partnership with Mulhako wa Alhomwe went beyond financial sponsorship, describing cultural heritage as a valuable national asset that must be protected and transformed into opportunities for future generations.
“Today, we have not gathered here merely to celebrate a culture. We have gathered to celebrate a people, a history, an identity and, above all, a future,” the representative said.
Delivering remarks under this year’s theme, “Heritage Preservation for Sustainable Development,” Nhlema challenged Malawians to reflect on their cultural roots and consider the legacy they intend to leave for future generations.
The speech emphasised that heritage should not simply be remembered through annual festivals, museums or history books, but should remain relevant in homes, schools, communities and the broader economy.
According to the Nhlema, Malawi can turn its rich cultural heritage into sustainable economic opportunities by investing in traditional craftsmanship, cultural tourism, traditional foods, music, dance and storytelling.
The representative also highlighted the importance of protecting the environment, noting that cultural preservation and environmental sustainability are closely connected.
“Our ancestors did not inherit the land merely to occupy it. They inherited it to nurture it, protect it and pass it on,” the representative said, warning that the destruction of forests and degradation of land could undermine the prosperity of future generations.
The NICO Group representative Alfred Nhlema further stressed that businesses should measure their contribution to society not only through financial performance but also through their role in strengthening communities and preserving shared values.
Through NBS Bank Plc, the group supports businesses, finances ambitions and promotes economic opportunities, while Eris Properties invests in infrastructure and spaces that support communities and economic activity.
The group said its support for Mulhako wa Alhomwe reflects its recognition of the importance of cultural identity and belonging in building strong communities.
Nhlema added that the impact of the sponsorship should be measured not only by its monetary value but also by the opportunities it creates for young people, cultural practitioners, entrepreneurs and communities.
The group’s cultural support programme, One NICO Xpression, also extends to other cultural celebrations across Malawi, including Umthetho, Umhlangano wa Maseko Ngoni, Chiwanja Cha A Yao and Gonapamuhanya.
The initiative reflects the group’s belief that Malawi’s cultural diversity is a national treasure that should be celebrated as a source of unity rather than division.
“Our languages may differ. Our dances may differ. Our traditions may differ. But our aspirations are remarkably similar. We all want dignity, opportunities, peace and a better future for our children,” Nhlema said.
He that national unity does not require Malawians to abandon their distinct cultural identities, but rather to embrace their differences while working towards common goals.
The festival was attended by Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development, Honourable Joseph Mwanamvekha, who served as Guest of Honour; Her Royal Highness Paramount Chief Kaduya; Pio Matos, Governor of Zambezia Province in Mozambique; Mulhako wa Alhomwe Board Chairperson Muchanakhwaye Mpuluka; Board Secretary Dr Justin Saidi; festival organising chairperson and trustee Eunice Napolo; traditional leaders, NICO Group representatives and members of the press.
Concluding the address, the NICO Group representative called on cultural leaders and communities to ensure that the festival serves not only as a celebration of the achievements of past generations but also as a commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage for the future.
Nhlema wished participants a successful 2026 Mulhako wa Alhomwe Cultural Festival, reaffirming the group’s commitment to cultural preservation, sustainable development and national unity.
The address ended with a call for the continued preservation of Mulhako wa Alhomwe, Malawi’s cultural heritage and the unity of the nation.
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