BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Mulhako Wa Alhomwe cultural grouping has thrown its weight behind the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declaration of Mount Mulanje as a protected World Heritage Site.
Chairperson Muchanakhwaye Mpuluka emphasized that the declaration will bring numerous benefits to the local communities and the country at large.
“Mulanje Mountain holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for the Lhomwe people,” Mpuluka said, highlighting the importance of preserving the mountain’s heritage.
The UNESCO recognition is expected to attract international attention and support for conservation efforts, promoting sustainable development in the region.
The declaration, made on July 11, 2025, has not been without controversy, with some traditional leaders pushing for bauxite exploration and extraction on the mountain.
However, senior chiefs and environmentalists have strongly opposed these plans, dismissing any attempts to undermine the UNESCO declaration.
Mulhako Wa Alhomwe, an organization dedicated to promoting Lhomwe culture, has been instrumental in preserving the community’s heritage.
The group’s annual festival showcases the Lhomwe people’s rich cultural practices, including traditional dances, foods, and medicines.
By supporting the UNESCO declaration, Mulhako Wa Alhomwe is advocating for the protection of Mount Mulanje’s unique biodiversity and cultural significance, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
