By Feston Malekezo & Sam Kalimira:

 People from all walks of life are today trekking to Mzuzu, Malawi’s Northern Region city, to commemorate the life of the country’s first president, Ngwazi Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda. The day, which is commemorated on May 14, illuminates Kamuzu’s life.The statesman died on November 25, 1997.

The event, which is celebrated on Kamuzu’s birthday, will take place at Mzuzu Stadium, with President Lazarus Chakwera presiding over activities.

Upon his arrival in Mzuzu Tuesday, Chakwera was welcomed by droves of people who braved rains, which have soaked the city for the past two days.

He was welcomed by MCP general secretary Richard Chimwendo Banda, MCP first deputy president Catherine Gotani Hara as well as various government and party officials.

Chakwera was expected to address those who came to welcome him but, due to bad weather, he simply waved, smiled and greeted patrons.

He left the venue the moment rains resumed.

Speaking ahead of the event, Kamuzu family representative Ken Kandodo described the Ngwazi as a visionary leader who laid a solid foundation for development across all sectors.

Kandodo said in education, Kamuzu not only established secondary schools in almost all the districts but also founded Kamuzu Academy, whose academic standards match those of international institutions.

“In health, you see that Kamuzu built hospitals; in education, he set up the University of Malawi and, in agriculture, he made sure that people had food throughout the year. This is a leader which Malawians cannot forget,” Kandodo said.

Kandodo also commended Chakwera for upholding Kamuzu’s legacy and ensuring that the former leader is remembered annually.

Reverend Bizwick Nkhoma, who is the Moderator of the CCAP General Assembly, said the church joins all Malawians in commemorating Kamuzu Day.

He said the Ngwazi was a devoted CCAP member and championed the four cornerstones of unity, loyalty, obedience and discipline.

“During Kumuzu’s reign, there was no Chewa, Yao, Tumbuka or Sena. We were all Malawians working hard in fields to develop our country,” Nkhoma said.

MCP Nkhata Bay District Chairman Benga Chiume said Kamuzu practiced development-oriented politics, emphasising nation-building over confrontation.

“Let’s love our nation just like Kamuzu, who loved Malawi. His heart was for Malawians,” Chiume said.

Some of the activities marking the day will be traditional dances, speeches and a football match between Mzuzu City Hammers and Civil Service United.

Apart from the Kamuzu Day commemorations, Chakwera is expected to preside over a graduation ceremony at Mzuzu University Thursday.