By Golden Kang'oma

Salima, August 26, Mana: Malawi Defense Force (MDF) Command and Staff College hosted a cultural day event on Saturday under the theme "Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Wisdom in Fostering Military Leadership."

The event that took place in Salima brought together military officers from over five African countries, including Mozambique, Ghana, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, and South Africa, to showcase their diverse cultures and traditions.

Colonel Enock Ntonya, Commandant of the MDF Command and Staff College, emphasized the importance of cultural understanding in every day’s military leadership.

Ntonya noted that for military leaders to operate effectively in any environment, it is crucial to understand and respect the cultural contexts of the communities they serve.

He said: "Without knowing the culture, it is going to be very difficult to win the hearts and minds of the people. Understanding culture allows for easier integration, respect, and support from the communities."

The cultural day highlighted the role of military culture, which, according to Colonel Mtonya, is unique, standardized, and promotes discipline while respecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of military personnel.

He stressed that while military culture fosters unity, it also preserves the unique identities of soldiers from different tribes and nations.

This diversity, he argued, enriches military leadership by providing a broad spectrum of cultural perspectives.

Executive Dean of the Bingu School of Culture and Heritage at the Malawi University of Science and Technology Dr. Atikonda Mtenje Mkochi, also underscored the significance of cultural exchange in fostering unity across the continent.

She observed that, despite cultural differences, there are numerous similarities that bind African nations together.

"In the differences that we have, there is beauty. We must learn from each other to build a better continent," Mkochi said.

The event served as a platform for participating countries to share their cultural practices, including traditional dances, music, and culinary traditions.

Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Amoah from Ghana, who chaired the organizing committee, highlighted the importance of such events in promoting cohesion among military personnel from different countries.

He expressed concern over the loss of cultural identity due to globalization and emphasized the need to preserve African values through such cultural initiatives.

The cultural day not only celebrated the rich diversity of African cultures but also reinforced the idea that cultural awareness is integral to effective military leadership.

As African militaries continue to work together in peacekeeping and other joint operations, such cultural exchanges are vital in building the mutual respect and understanding necessary for successful collaboration.