Malawi gambling authority expands community engagement through Umhlangano 2026
Malawi’s gaming regulator joined a major Southern African cultural gathering, bringing together Ngoni communities and traditional leaders from across the region.
Malawi.- Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) strengthened its community engagement through its partnership with Umhlangano 2026, a major cultural gathering that brought together traditional leaders and Ngoni communities from Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique and South Africa.
MAGLA joined the final day of the Maseko Ngoni cultural gathering in Ntcheu, as the six-day programme reached its conclusion. Umhlangano, meaning “gathering” or “assembly”, was held from August 31 to September 5 and focused on Maseko Ngoni heritage, cultural preservation and unity.
MAGLA said its participation formed part of its broader mandate, stating that it “supports community and cultural development through initiatives that positively impact Malawians.”
Beyond the cultural celebrations, organisers used the programme to address issues including gender-based violence, child marriages, school dropouts and environmental conservation.
The final ceremony attracted thousands of people, alongside senior government officials and traditional leaders. Vice President Jane Mayemu Ansah attended the closing ceremony, which was held under the theme “Ubunye Bunamandla”, meaning “Unity is Strength.”
For MAGLA, the partnership extended its public engagement beyond its core responsibilities in Malawi’s gaming and lottery sector.
Organisers had set a K180m (US$104,000) budget for the 2026 event, with funding from Maseko Ngoni communities, corporate organisations and fundraising activities.
