Department of Museums and Monuments

WHEN HISTORY MEETS HOSPITALITY– A VISIT TO THE NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL TOWER

Yesterday, the echoes of history at the National War Memorial Park welcomed a truly global audience. We had the distinct honor of hosting international guests Rachel Rivera and Seth Olinda, all the way from the United States of America, on this solemn day of June 16, 2026.

Our dedicated Monument Assistant, Mr. Khudzeni Malenga, took them on a powerful journey through time—unveiling the courage, sacrifice, and resilience that this sacred ground holds for both Malawi and the world. From the architectural symbolism of the tower to the stories etched in every corner, no stone was left unturned.

But it wasn’t just the rich history that left a mark. It was the Malawi warmth that stole the show.

Rachel’s reaction says it all:
"Very interesting story, and I like how peaceful Malawi is. Thank you."

And that, dear friends, is the soul of our nation. A place where even the heaviest histories are met with calm, kindness, and open arms.

Whether you're a local revisiting your roots or a traveler seeking perspective, the National War Memorial Tower stands tall—not just as a monument of the past, but as a beacon of unity and peace for our future.

Have you visited the tower lately? Share your memories below!
Or tag someone who needs to experience this gem.

FROM LILONGWE TO BLANTYRE: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME!

Yesterday, the halls of Chichiri Museum echoed with the excited chatter of young explorers from Good Shepherd International School (Area 3, Lilongwe)!

But this wasn’t just a field trip to experience flying and watch planes take off and land—it was a mission to connect with their roots. Principal Mrs. Janefrances Alaoma beautifully put it: "This trip is about exploring, studying, and conserving the rich natural history of our beloved Malawi."

From the ancient fossils to the vibrant cultural exhibits, these students traveled back in time without leaving our borders.

A huge shoutout and Zikomo to Mr. Chumachienda, the tour-guide, for his incredible guided tours. His passion for preserving our heritage is contagious!

Have you visited Chichiri Museum lately? What’s your favorite exhibit? Drop a comment below!

FUTURE TOURISM LEADERS IN ACTION AT TOP MANDALA MUSEUM!

Last week on 8th June 2026, we had the pleasure of hosting three brilliant students from Blantyre International University (BIU) – Naomie, Tionge, and Nicole – for a special educational visit.

These young researchers came ready to dig deep! Their mission? To conduct a full assessment of Mandala Museum’s role in cultural tourism and heritage products. From analyzing external economic factors to mapping key stakeholders and evaluating our team’s conservation and tour-guiding skills – no stone was left unturned.

During a lively roundtable discussion (plus some insightful interviews!), we tackled some big questions:

Policy & Government: How do current Malawian tourism and heritage policies help or limit our operations?

Economic Realities: How are exchange rates and inflation in Blantyre affecting visitor numbers?

Digital Visibility: What role does internet access and social media play in putting Mandala Museum on the tourist map?

Skills & Gaps: What conservation, curatorial, and guiding strengths do our staff have – and where can we grow?

But it wasn’t all work and no wonder. We ended the day on a fascinating high note – the students truly appreciated our entomological collections (that’s our incredible insect exhibit for the non-scientists! ) currently on display at Top Mandala Museum.

Thank you, Naomie, Tionge, and Nicole, for your curiosity, sharp questions, and fresh perspectives. We can’t wait to see how you’ll help shape the future of Malawian heritage tourism!

This week, Growing Star Montessori organized an educational trip for 22 young learners to the Chichiri Museum, where they learned more about different modes of transport. Our tour guide, Mr. Edgar Kambalame, took the children through the exhibitions. Mr. Umari, the trip organizer, shared that the Chichiri Museum plays a vital role in preserving and conserving important pieces of transport history, including the steam engine train, steam traction engine, steam engine water tank, and the Nyasaland bus.

MZUZU REGIONAL MUSEUM BRINGS INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY TO MASASA PRIMARY SCHOOL

On 18th May, we took the museum experience beyond our walls—into the heart of the community. In line with this year’s theme, “Museums Uniting a Divided World,” our team engaged learners at Masasa Primary School through educational discussions and cultural activities.

Led by Ms Susan Simkoko, Messers Emson Zakwana, and Blessings Munthali, the outreach helped students appreciate how museums promote unity, preserve heritage, and foster understanding.

The Head Teacher of the school and her Deputy, Mrs. T. Khonje and Mrs. L. Mughogho, respectively thanked the team for the meaningful gesture. Learners showcased traditional games like sikwa, highlighting the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge. Class Teacher Mr. Paul Nkhata also pledged to organize a future museum trip for the students.

We remain committed to bringing museums closer to communities and inspiring young people to value culture, history, and unity.

Today we honour the legacy of Malawi’s founding father, His Excellency Ngwazi Dr. Kamuzu Banda, on Kamuzu Day.

A leader who shaped our nation’s history and inspired a spirit of hard work, unity, and independence.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on where we came from and the journey we continue as one Malawi.

BRINGING HISTORY TO LIFE: MOUNTAIN VIEW SECONDARY SCHOOL VISITS CHICHIRI MUSEUM!

Today was a fantastic day at Chichiri Museum as we welcomed 48 students and 2 dedicated teachers from Mountain View Secondary School in Thyolo!

Organized by Alinane Nkomba and Florah Shumba, this educational visit aimed to deepen the students’ understanding of Malawi’s rich history and explore practical ways to preserve and conserve our cultural heritage for future generations.

Led by tour guides Mr. Jauzale Chumachienda and Lwitiko Kasema, the group enjoyed an immersive journey through both outdoor and indoor exhibitions—discovering artifacts, stories, and traditions that connect us all to our roots.

From hands-on learning to meaningful discussions on heritage protection, it was a powerful reminder that the past holds the keys to our future.

Well done to the learners and teachers for choosing education beyond the classroom! Let’s continue to protect what defines us as Malawians.

Share to celebrate young minds taking an active role in cultural preservation!

BUILDING A LEGACY: MALAWI TAKES BOLD STEPS TO SAFEGUARD LAKE MALAWI NATIONAL PARK WORLD HERITAGE SITE

A major step forward for heritage conservation has ended in Màngochi!

On Friday, April 24th the Government of Malawi, through the Department of Museums and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife—in partnership with UNESCO, ICCROM, and IUCN (advisory bodies to the World Heritage Convention)—had officially ended a five-day capacity-building training workshop on the Enhancing Our Heritage (EoH 2.0) Toolkit. The goal? To strengthen the management of the Lake Malawi National Park World Heritage Site—one of the country’s most treasured natural wonders.

Held from April 20–24 at Sun n Sand Holiday Resort in Mangochi, the workshop brought together over 30 participants, including representatives from:

· Key government departments
· Local authorities
· Research institutions and universities
· Community leadership
· Civil society organizations
· Heritage practitioners

What was on the agenda?
Participants dived into practical strategies where they:

· Assessed and addressed conservation challenges
· Responded to mounting pressures from climate change
· Strengthened evidence-based decision-making to protect the site’s Outstanding Universal Value

This initiative was part of ongoing efforts by the Malawi National Commission for UNESCO and partners to promote coordinated stewardship of the country’s internationally designated heritage sites. It also supported the updating of the Lake Malawi National Park management plan, ensuring that future generations inherit a thriving, protected ecosystem.

According to Dr. Oris Malijani, the training enhanced collaboration between institutions and local communities—united everyone in the shared mission of safeguarding one of Malawi’s most iconic natural heritage assets.

Join the conversation!
What does Lake Malawi National Park mean to you? Share your thoughts below and help us celebrate this important step toward lasting conservation.

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HONOURED TO HOST OUR NEIGHBOURS FROM ZAMBIA!

This week the Kamuzu Mausoleum welcomed 30 parents and teachers from St. Monica Catholic School in Chipata, Zambia. The group came eager to learn about Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda—specifically Malawi’s struggle for independence, the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, and the transition from one‑party rule to multiparty democracy.

Team Leader and Head Teacher, Mr. Aaron Mtonga, described the visit as informative and educational, and thanked our staff for their warm hospitality. The tour was expertly conducted by Mr. Morgan Pota.

We remain committed to preserving and sharing Malawi’s rich history with the world.