BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-People from different backgrounds have filled Balaka Stadium, in the area of Traditional Authority Msamala in Balaka District, where President Lazarus Chakwera on July 4, 2024 attended the burial service of the late Honourable Lucius Banda, who was Presidential Advisor on Youth and Arts until his demise.
Populary known as ‘Soldier’ in music circles, the Zembani Band Leader, 54, died at a hospital in South Africa on Sunday, June 30, 2024, after a long battle with kidney failure.
Politicians, business tycoons, artists, music gurus, Journalists, Chiefs, the Clergy including former President Dr. Joyce Banda are all there to say their goodbyes to the late Banda who is regarded as a legend of Malawi music.
Upon his arrival, President Chakwera who was welcomed by Vice President Michael Bizwick Usi, went straight to Lucius Banda’s residence, where his body lay in state, to pay his last respects.
In his eulogy, Elias Kamoto, a representative of the bereaved family said they are saddened with Banda’s death because their lives revolved around him.
He thanked President Chakwera for the financial assistance rendered to Banda during the entire two years of his sickness.
“You paid him a visit when he fell sick. We also thank you for the financial support rendered to him during the time he was sick. As a family, we say thank you,” he emphasized.
Son to the deceased John Zembani Banda said his father was a caring man who taught him to always work hard in everything he does.
He made a vow that the legacy of Lucius Banda through his Zembani Music Company will not die.
Vita Chirwa, Musicians Union of Malawi President said Banda was a precious gift to Malawi who always rendered a helping hand to upcoming musicians.
Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA) President Reverend Chimwemwe Mhango said the country has lost a very important figure in the music fraternity.
“He was a very humble person. Very consistent. He worked so hard to put Malawi music on the international map,” he emphasized.
Taking his turn, Traditional Authority (T/A) Msamala praised Chakwera for taking time off his busy schedule to attend the burial service.
