Thousands of Ngoni people gathered at the foot of the historic Hora Mountain in Mzimba on Saturday for the 2026 Umthetho Cultural Festival, an event celebrating Ngoni culture, heritage, traditions and unity.
The festival, held under the theme “Mzimba: United for Land Preservation and Sustainable Development,” brought together traditional leaders, government officials, cultural enthusiasts and people from Malawi and neighbouring countries.
Speaking after attending the festival, Malawi Vice President Jane Ansah described the gathering as a deeply meaningful opportunity to reconnect with Ngoni roots and reflect on the values passed down through generations.
As someone of Ngoni descent and an Impi of Inkosi ya Makhosi Gomani V, Umthetho holds a special significance beyond the cultural celebrations.
“Umthetho is more than just a celebration; it is an opportunity for us to reconnect with our roots, honour our traditions and reflect on the values that have shaped our communities over generations,” she said.
The issue of land preservation also featured prominently during this year’s celebrations, with the theme highlighting the importance of protecting land as both a resource for development and an integral part of cultural heritage.
The gathering was attended by several prominent traditional and political figures, including Inkosi ya Makhosi Zulu Gama of Tanzania, Inkosi ya Makhosi Gomani V of the Maseko Ngoni, former Vice President Khumbo Kachali and Second Vice President Enock Chihana.
Chihana represented President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika at the festival.
The event also provided an opportunity for communities from different backgrounds to come together and celebrate their shared cultural identity.
Participants said festivals such as Umthetho play an important role in preserving traditional values and ensuring that cultural heritage is passed on to younger generations.
The celebrations at Hora Mountain also underscored the role of culture in promoting unity, social cohesion and sustainable development.
Jane Ansah expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and the spirit of unity that characterised the festival.
“Events such as Umthetho remind us that while we may come from different communities and backgrounds, our culture, traditions and shared aspirations can bring us together as one people,” he said.
She further called on Malawians to continue protecting their cultural heritage and land for future generations.
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