President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has emphasized the need for Malawians to preserve and promote culture as a precursor to national unity and development.

The President said this on Saturday at this year’s Umthetho Cultural Festival of the Ngoni people held at Hora Heritage Centre in Mzimba. This year, the festival was held under the theme: ‘Campaign Against Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Person.’

In his remarks, President Chakwera said personally he does not condone tribalism and will make sure that his administration operates on the same principle.

“Malawians are one people and everyone must pass on the cultural values to the next generation,” said President Chakwera.

Speaking earlier, Inkosi Yamakhosi Mbelwa V expressed concern over migration of young people mainly from Mzimba to South Africa in search of greener pastures.

He said for the district to develop, the young people must realise that they are the major human resource for development and key agents for social change and economic growth.

The Inkosi also asked Malawians to join hands in the fight against human trafficking.

He then pleaded with government to consider providing soft loans to young people in Mzimba for them to start up small-scale businesses.

The function was characterised by different traditional dances, culinary presentations in form of traditional food and beverages.

Earlier in the week there were various activities among them a youth seminar organised to allow the young people in Mzimba to discuss issues affecting their lives.