Update: The annual Mulhako wa Alhomwe cultural festival held its main events on October 18 at Chonde Ground in Mulanje, bringing together thousands of attendees to celebrate Lhomwe heritage. According to Nyasa Times, the gathering featured the Gugudela traditional dance alongside displays of local customs and music. Minister of Finance Joseph Mwanamvekha attended as the guest of honor, representing former President Peter Mutharika.
The festival secured major corporate backing. One NICO Group announced a contribution of over K250 million, comprising K200 million in cash and K50 million in-kind, Nyasa Times reports. Addressing the crowd, NBS Bank executive Alfred Nhlema stressed the economic value of cultural tourism. In a separate address, festival chairperson Muchanakhwaye Mpuluka warned attendees against bringing partisan politics into the organisation. He stated that anyone insulting former President Mutharika, who serves as the festival's patron, would face severe consequences.
Update: In pageant news, internet users across the country are heavily campaigning for Leonorah Cooke as she competes as Miss Teen Universe Malawi. Malawi24 reported on Saturday that the public is actively rallying behind the teen queen online to boost her visibility for the upcoming international competition in Cambodia.