Mutharika delegates Gangata to Umhlangano

President Peter Mutharika has delegated a Cabinet minister to represent him at the 2026 Umhlangano wa Maseko Ngoni ceremony taking place today in Ntcheu.

Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Alfred Gangata will represent Mutharika as Guest of Honour at the cultural gathering, which celebrates Maseko Ngoni heritage, unity and tradition.

Gangata will lead the official proceedings at the ceremony, which is expected to attract several high-profile figures.

According to the programme, other officials expected to attend include Vice President Jane Ansah and Second Vice President Enock Chihana.

The latest delegation has drawn attention because it mirrors a similar arrangement earlier this year involving the President and Vice President.

In June, Mutharika delegated Education Minister Bright Msaka to represent him at the unveiling of former Vice President Saulos Chilima’s mausoleum in Ntcheu, an event also attended by Ansah and Chihana.

Government has previously said such arrangements are part of austerity measures aimed at reducing public expenditure by having ministers represent the President at selected functions.