The Malawi government has announced it will cover all funeral expenses for five musicians who were killed in a road accident while travelling to perform at an end-of-year concert in the capital, Lilongwe, calling the deaths a major blow to the country’s cultural life.
In a condolence message issued on Friday, President Arthur Peter Mutharika and First Lady Gertrude Mutharika said they were “deeply heartbroken” by the loss of the five members of the Hive Band, who were part of the team supporting popular Afro-dance artist Eli Njuchi.
Those killed were identified as Elivacy Matamando Muyaba, Wilfred Kupengule Jnr, Vincent Mkwinda, McFarlen Banda and Raphael Chitsonga.
The president said the musicians were more than performers, describing them as talented artists whose dedication and creativity helped shape Malawi’s contemporary music industry.
“Their passing is a national tragedy that has left a painful void in our cultural fabric,” the statement said, adding that the loss was felt not only by the bereaved families and the Musicians Association of Malawi, but by the nation as a whole.
The presidency said the circumstances of the accident were particularly distressing, noting that the artists were travelling to entertain Malawians and bring joy through music during the festive season.
“As a gesture of shared national mourning, government will meet all funeral expenses to ensure the departed artists are accorded dignified burials,” the statement said.
The First Family extended condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased, saying their thoughts and prayers were with them “during this exceptionally difficult time”.
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News of the accident has triggered an outpouring of grief across Malawi’s music industry, with fellow artists, promoters and fans paying tribute on social media to the band members’ contribution to the country’s creative arts sector.
Several musicians described the deaths as a stark reminder of the risks faced by artists who travel long distances for performances, often under tight schedules and challenging road conditions.
The Hive Band was widely regarded as a rising force in Malawi’s live music scene, known for its energetic performances and role in supporting some of the country’s most popular acts.
Authorities have not yet released further details on the cause of the accident.
