Malawi mourns veteran reggae singer Lucius Banda

Banda, whose music portrayed social, economic and cultural constraints, succumbed to kidney failure. In a video circulating on social media, Banda confirmed that he had a kidney ailment and was undergoing treatment in Johannesburg.

“Hello Malawi. How are you? I see a lot of messages, a lot of worries about my situation. Yeah, it’s true. I am in a hospital here in South Africa because of a stressful issue. I have a kidney problem, so I always go for what we call dialysis. The reason I was using a walking stick, or maybe a wheelchair, is because of my left leg. I was attacked by gout.”

The news about Banda’s death was confirmed in a press statement by the Malawian government.

“The nation will live to remember honourable Lucius Banda, fondly referred to as Soldier, as a dedicated and selfless son of Malawi who courageously fought all his life for the betterment of lives of ordinary people through his music and political involvement,” Minister of information and digitalisation Moses Kalongashawa said. “Government in consultation with the family will keep the nation informed of all funeral arrangements.”

Following his death, musicians and industry professionals took to social media to convey their condolences.

“Malawi’s music has died,” writer Jerome Chisikwa said. “Art has died. This man right here is easily the greatest musician Malawi has ever produced. He has left a song for every moment, from politics, social justice, daily struggles and perseverance, to love and romance, etc. Rest in peace, Sir Lucius Banda.”

Local rapper Tay Grin wrote: “Sir Lucius Banda, you profoundly inspired my music career. I grew up listening to your music and eventually had the honor of collaborating with you. You shouldered us all and took enormous responsibility for our industry. We salute you, sir. Your legacy lives on, and your iconic name shall be sung forever. Thank you for your courage. Rest in power icon.”

Internet personality Gabriel Chrispus Buule wrote: “A great human, leader, and music legend! Lucius Banda has joined the heavenly choir. To the family and my friends in Malawi, it’s a sad day. Till we meet again, soldier.”

Lucius Banda was a renowned Malawian musician, politician, and human rights activist. Born on 17 November 1970 in Balaka, Banda was celebrated for his powerful music that addresses social and political issues. He was the founder of the band Zembani and released several critically acclaimed albums including Yahwe, Unity, How Long, Not Easy Road, Money and Power, and Love and Hate. His music earned him numerous awards and international recognition. In addition to his music career, he served as a member of parliament in Malawi and has been a vocal advocate for human rights and democracy.

Banda’s political career was marked by ups and downs. He served as MP for Balaka North Constituency until 2006, when he was convicted of having fake academic qualifications and sentenced to 21 months in prison. He was released after three months and went on to release an album inspired by his experience titled Cell 51 Maximum. He later fell out with the government in 2010, but made a comeback in the 2014 elections, winning back his seat in Balaka Central Constituency.