Malawi’s Lomwe ethnic group launches heritage organisation

Alhomwe, one of Malawi\’s major ethnic groups who descended from Lomwe Hill of neighbouring Mozambique in the 1800’s, will officially launch a heritage association known as \"Mulhako wa Alhomwe\" on Saturday in the southern Phalombe District of the country.

According to Publicity Secretary of the group, Salule Masangwi, the ceremony will bring together all Alhomwes from both Malawi and Mozambique, and other ethnic groups from within the country and abroad to celebrate the launching of the association.

\"We would like to celebrate together and at the same time share ideas on our African culture, achievements, contribution to the nation and problems facing our tribe,\" he said.

He added that many dignitaries have started arriving from neighbouring Mozambique.

The Zambia-based Paramount Chief of Chewa ethnic group, who rules the Chewas of Mozambique, Malawi and Zambia, Kalonga Gawa Undi, and his royal entourage are also expected to attend the colourful ceremony.

President Bingu Wa Mutharika, who is a Lomwe himself, is also expected to grace the occasion as well.

During the event, Mutharika will elevate Chief Mkhumba to the position of Paramount Chief of the Lomwes, the first time the ethnic group has been recognised with this highest traditional honour.