By Patrick Banda
Mchinji Youth Alive has intensified efforts to revive cultural heritage and promote tourism in the district through a youth-driven initiative.
The organisation is implementing a project called Restoring and Preserving Culture aimed at engaging young people and strengthening cultural identity in the border district.
“Mchinji district is rich in cultural diversity, yet we do not prioritise it and this project will give youth a platform to showcase their abilities and help develop tourist attraction centres,” said Executive Director Luciano Milala.
Milala said many young people are losing their Malawian identity due to the influence of foreign cultures, a trend he said is negatively affecting the country’s heritage.
He stressed the need to create platforms where communities can showcase their talents through cultural activities to preserve local traditions.Mchinji District Commissioner Reinghard Chavula welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely in helping young people reconnect with their cultural roots.
Chavula said the influence of the internet has led many people, especially the youth, to imitate foreign cultures at the expense of local traditions.
He said the project will help promote appreciation of Malawian culture among young people across the district.
Mchinji Youth Alive is expected to host a two day youth cultural festival in September at Mchinji Community Ground, where various cultural groups will showcase their traditions.
The organisation is implementing the project with funding from the Copyright Fund, targeting about 4,000 youths in the district.
