By Chisomo Phiri
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Vice President for Southern Region George Chaponda has hailed President Lazarus Chakwera for demonstrating good leadership by installing Paramount Chief Kaduya of the Lhomwe people.
President Lazarus Chakwera installed Paramount Chief Kaduya real name Stella Munyama at a ceremony which took place at Mpasa CCAP Primary School Ground in Phalombe District on Thursday.
Speaking to 247 Malawi News,Chaponda explained that President Chakwera’s installation of Paramount Chief Kaduya, who has been acting in that position since the death of Paramount Chief Ngolongoliwa a few years ago, underscores the MCP government’s commitment to recognizing and working with traditional leaders.
“The President Chakwerahas demonstrated respect for Malawi’s diverse cultural heritage and acknowledges the important role that traditional authorities play in the country’s social fabric,” said Chiponda.
He observed that President Chakwera’s installation of the Lhomwe Paramount Chief reflects a broader commitment to honoring traditional leadership and fostering unity within Malawi.
Chiponda added that what Chakwera has done emphasizes the importance of traditional authorities in shaping the country’s future.
He described the installation of a Paramount Chief as a significant event in Malawi’s cultural and political landscape which reflects the government’s recognition of traditional leadership and its role in national development.
“The installation of a paramount chief holds great significance in many African societies, including Malawi.
“Paramount chiefs are traditional leaders who hold considerable influence and authority within their communities.
“They play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, resolving disputes, and promoting development initiatives. Additionally, paramount chiefs often act as intermediaries between their communities and the government, contributing to governance and decision-making processes at both local and national levels,” he said.
Chaponda attended the installation ceremony, representing DPP President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika who is Mulhako Wa Alhomwe patron.
Mulhako Wa Alhomwe was established in 2007 with the aim of promoting Lhomwe culture by among other objectives, instilling a sense of pride in its people.
The formation of the organization revived some of the cultural practices that had been on the death bed.
The Lomwe are one of the four largest ethnic groups living in Malawi.
They are located primarily in the southeast section of Malawi with the largest concentration being in Phalombe district.
Others live in Mulanje, Thyolo, Chiradzulu, Zomba, and Liwonde. Smaller numbers are scattered throughout the southern region of Malawi.
In Mozambique, the Lomwe are found almost entirely in the Zambezi Province
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