President Arthur Peter Mutharika has announced that the government will cover all funeral expenses for the five members of the Hive Band who died in a tragic road accident in Ntcheu.
In a condolence message issued on behalf of himself and the First Lady, Professor Gertrude Mutharika, the President described the deaths as a devastating loss to Malawi’s music industry and the nation at large.
The five artists — Elivacy Matamando Muyaba, Wilfred Kupengule Jnr, Vincent Mkwinda, McFarlen Banda and Raphael Chitsonga — were members of the Hive Band, which works closely with Afro-dance artist Eli Njuchi.
President Mutharika said the young men were more than musicians, describing them as key contributors who helped shape Malawi’s music culture through their passion, talent and dedication.
“It is a tragedy that leaves a deep void in our cultural fabric,” the President said, adding that the loss was especially painful as the artists were travelling to Lilongwe to perform at an end-of-year concert meant to bring joy to fans.
He extended condolences to the bereaved families, Eli Njuchi, the Musicians Association of Malawi and the entire creative industry.
As a gesture of national mourning, the President confirmed that government will take responsibility for all funeral arrangements to ensure the departed artists are laid to rest with dignity.
The Ntcheu accident has shocked the country and triggered an outpouring of grief from artists, fans and leaders across Malawi.
