By Burnett Munthali
NTCHEU, Malawi — Prophet Shepherd Bushiri has called for the preservation of Malawi’s cultural heritage and values after joining traditional leaders and communities at the 2026 Umhlangano cultural gathering in Ntcheu, where he publicly expressed pride in his Ngoni roots and Malawian identity.
Bushiri attended the annual Maseko Ngoni gathering with his wife, Mary, as communities came together to celebrate Ngoni history, culture and identity.
The couple made a notable appearance in traditional Ngoni attire, with Bushiri wearing ceremonial clothing featuring leopard print and cowhide, together with a distinctive traditional headpiece. Mary wore elaborate traditional regalia decorated with beads and feathers, complemented by layered necklaces and a leather skirt.
Bushiri backs Gomani V’s call for strong values
Speaking after the event, Bushiri said he was honoured to participate in Umhlangano, describing the gathering as an important platform for celebrating heritage and strengthening cultural identity.
He particularly praised a message delivered by Inkosi ya Makhosi Gomani V, the paramount chief of the Maseko Ngoni, saying the traditional leader’s emphasis on God and moral values resonated with him.
Bushiri said cultural heritage has greater meaning when it is accompanied by principles that promote righteousness, wisdom and respect for God.
Call to protect Ngoni heritage
The preacher urged Malawians to safeguard the positive traditions inherited from previous generations and ensure that young people understand their cultural identity.
He said communities should preserve what is valuable in their traditions while creating conditions for the next generation to carry that heritage forward with dignity and responsibility.
Bushiri’s message placed particular emphasis on the relationship between culture, values and community development, suggesting that traditional identity can remain relevant when it is passed from one generation to another in a meaningful way.
‘Proud to be Malawian’
Bushiri also used the Umhlangano 2026 platform to make a direct statement about his national identity.
“I am proud of my roots, proud of my people, and proud to be Malawian,” he said.
He subsequently prayed for Malawi’s traditional leaders and communities, asking God to give them wisdom and continue to bless the nation.
His remarks came as Umhlangano 2026 in Ntcheu brought together people interested in celebrating and promoting Maseko Ngoni culture and heritage.
Bushiri concluded his message with a reference to the Ngoni language and identity, using the expression “Wawa Angoni, Wawa” to reinforce his connection to his ancestral heritage.
Umhlangano highlights Ngoni identity
The 2026 gathering has again placed Ntcheu at the centre of celebrations of Maseko Ngoni culture, with traditional leadership, community participation and cultural expression forming key elements of the event.
For Bushiri, his participation was both a cultural homecoming and an opportunity to encourage Malawians to protect the values and traditions that define their communities.
His appearance alongside his wife also added prominence to this year’s Umhlangano in Ntcheu, one of the country’s notable traditional and cultural gatherings.
