Nation Mourns as Former Deputy Minister Joyce Chitsulo Laid to Rest in Mwanza

The body of the late Joyce Chitsulo, who served as Deputy Minister of Local Government, has been laid to rest in her home village of Thambani, in Mpeni Village under Senior Chief Govati in Mwanza District.

President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera and his Vice President Dr. Michael Usi attended the funeral ceremony for the late Chitsulo, who was also the Member of Parliament for Mwanza West Constituency.

Delivering a message of condolence on behalf of the President, the Minister of Local Government Richard Chimwendo Banda said Malawi has lost a dedicated public servant.

“Joyce was a gift not only to Mwanza but to the entire nation, as she was a strong and resilient woman,” said Banda.

Catherine Gotani Hara, Speaker of the National Assembly, also paid tribute, describing Chitsulo as a role model who inspired many women to take up leadership roles. She said her death has deeply affected a large number of women across the country.

Speaking on behalf of all Members of Parliament, Nicholas Dausi remembered Chitsulo as a joyful, knowledgeable, and committed public servant who always prioritized the needs of the people and the nation.

Chitsulo’s family, through her first-born daughter Maureen, expressed gratitude to the President for being present during their time of mourning.

The burial ceremony was attended by cabinet ministers, senior government officials, opposition leader Dr. George Chaponda, People’s Development Party leader Dr. Kondwani Nankhumwa, Chief Justice Rezine Mzikamanda, Seventh-day Adventist Church leader Tonny Yolamu Nyirenda, traditional leaders, and several members of Parliament. The service took place at Malowa Primary School grounds in Thambani, Mwanza.

The late Joyce Chitsulo, aged 47, died following a car accident. According to the family, she passed away at home after collapsing. She is survived by her husband and four children.