Community Rallies to Preserve Historic Sakhuta Hills Burial Site in Mchinji
Community members in Traditional Authority Kazyozoyo, Mchinji District, have pledged to protect and preserve the historic Sakhuta Hills burial site, a place believed to hold significant cultural and historical importance dating back to the 19th century.
The site is known for a cave that was traditionally used by surrounding communities to bury people who died from leprosy, reflecting a unique chapter in the district’s history.
Local historian Halison Kang’ombe, 68, from Traditional Authority Kazyozoyo, said the burial practice ended in 1930. However, he expressed concern that the site’s history is at risk of disappearing because the burial cave has become covered with rocks and lacks visible markers to identify its historical significance.
“If no action is taken, future generations may never know the important history associated with this place,” Kang’ombe said.
He said members of the community are committed to protecting the site and are seeking support to restore and secure the area so that its historical and cultural value can be preserved for future generations.
Mchinji District Tourism Officer Peterkins Tiyesi said the District Council is working closely with local communities to restore five historical sites across the district, including Sakhuta Hills.
According to Tiyesi, the initiative aims to preserve Mchinji’s rich cultural heritage while promoting tourism as a driver of local economic development.
Meanwhile, Owen Zayambika, Communications Officer for Mchinji Youth Alive, said the youth-led organization has identified several cultural and historical sites that require preservation.
He said, with support from the Copyright Association of Malawi (COSOMA) Copyright Fund, the organization is implementing initiatives to document, preserve, and promote Mchinji’s cultural heritage, ensuring that the district’s history is passed on to future generations.
Shira Chasipha