By Burnett Munthali
A once dense and shadowy forest area known as Nkhalango yokhwitima has been cleared by a caterpillar today in preparation for a memorial rally.
This solemn location marks the crash site of the plane that tragically claimed the life of Malawi’s Vice President, Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, along with other passengers.
The crash occurred at a place called Nthungwa, nestled deep within Chikangawa Forest, specifically in the kokhwitima area of Nkhatabay District.
The site has since become a symbol of national grief and remembrance following the devastating loss of one of the country’s most influential political figures.
It is believed that President Lazarus Chakwera will lead the nation in honouring the victims of the plane crash at this very site on Tuesday, June 10.
The President is expected to be accompanied by senior government officials, security personnel, and representatives from various state institutions.
While government officials will gather at the ‘Kwitima Forest’ in Nkhatabay, a parallel memorial is set to take place in Nsipe, Ntcheu District.
At Nsipe, Mary Chilima—widow of the late Vice President—will join most opposition leaders and church figures in paying tribute to her husband and the others lost.
The dual commemorations, though held in different districts, are both aimed at honouring the legacy and sacrifice of those who perished in the crash.
Speaking on the tragedy, Archbishop Luke Thomas Msusa remarked, “Mulungu anawona zonse zimachitika pa tsiku limenelo,” meaning “God saw everything that happened on that day.”
His words echo the shared grief and spiritual reflection that continue to surround the tragic event.
The separate ceremonies highlight both a unity of purpose and a quiet division in how the nation remembers its fallen leaders.
Yet, in both Chikangawa and Nsipe, the message remains one of reverence, sorrow, and a collective call for healing.
As Malawi prepares to mark this somber anniversary, citizens across the country are reminded of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of leadership grounded in service.
