By Bertha Banda:
The Maseko Ngoni Heritage has expressed “deep sorrow” at the death of Senior Chief Kwataine of Ntcheu District.
Chairperson of the heritage, Senior Chief Makwangwala, said in an interview following Kwataine’s death Monday that the loss was a blow to the cultural group, of which he was a senior member.
According to Makwangwala, Kwataine had been unwell for some time before he died at a hospital in Lilongwe.
“The loss is significant as chiefs play a crucial role in the country, particularly in preserving cultural heritage and promoting community development,” Makwangwala said.
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Kwataine was elevated from Traditional Authority (TA) to Senior TA by the then president, Joyce Banda, in 2012 in recognition of “his work integrating Ngoni traditions with maternal health initiatives in the Kwataine area”.
He is survived by his wife and children.
“The Maseko Ngoni Heritage acknowledges his contributions to the community and joins in mourning his loss. Senior Chief Kwataine’s leadership and guidance will be deeply missed,” Makwangwala said.
Ntcheu District Council spokesperson Maston Kaiya said preparations were underway for the funeral, which is expected to be attended by prominent figures and members of the community.
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The traditional leader’s body is expected to laid to rest Wednesday.
Kwataine was a TA under Paramount Chief Gonani of the Maseko Ngoni.
He died one month after the death of Senior Chief Kachindamoto, also of the Maseko Ngoni Heritage and a prominent figure in the fight against child marriages and early pregnancies.
