By Tiyanjane Mambucha

August 1, Mana: The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has officially handed over the five Million Kwacha cheque it donated towards this year’s Umthetho Cultural Festival.

Speaking at the handover ceremony at MACRAs office in Lilongwe, Area 13, MACRA’s Board Chairperson, Bridget Chibwana, said the Umthetho annual festival is a vital platform for preserving and promoting the rich culture and traditions of Malawi.

Chibwana said the festival will not only celebrate the Ngoni’s heritage but also explore how, as a nation can leverage this heritage to build a strong digital content industry and contribute to the development of the economy.

“This gesture and our involvement reflect our commitment to fostering a digital future that respects and celebrates our cultural diversity. As we aspire to build a digital nation and economy, we recognise the importance of cultural festivals like this one as a valuable opportunity for creating local digital content,” said Chibwana.

Chibwana also disclosed that apart from the five-million-kwacha donation, MACRA will also provide free internet services throughout the three-day event to create a digital ecosystem that accommodates the cultural landscape.

Umthetho Organising committee member, Harold Jere said the donation and support will help preserve the Ngoni culture, even long after the festival.

“The contribution that MACRA has given towards this year's Umthetho Festival will definitely go a long way, and will assist to the success of this festival,” Jere said.

He said the Umthetho Festival will be held at the Hora Heritage Centre in Mzimba, starting Thursday, with the main event taking place on Saturday.

MACRA made the donation on Saturday, July 28, during the Umthetho fundraising golf tournament that was held at Lilongwe Golf Club, an event that was graced by His royal majesty Inkosi ya Makhosi M’Mbelwa V and Inkosi ya Makhosi Gomani V.