The sun set heavy on Malawi on May 5, 2025, as the nation got the heart-wrenching news of the passing of Mr. Chikumbutso Mtumodzi—a man whose life was defined by service, integrity, and unwavering patriotism.
A seasoned journalist turned high-ranking civil servant, Mr. Mtumodzi died at Partners in Hope Hospital after a short illness. He was 53.
State House led the nation in mourning, with President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera and First Lady Madame Monica Chakwera issuing a solemn tribute:
“The First Lady and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Chikumbutso Mtumodzi, a dedicated public servant who served as State House Spokesperson under President Bingu wa Mutharika and, most recently, as Principal Secretary for the Department of Procurement and Supply Services. His distinguished career in government communication shaped Malawi’s media landscape with professionalism and patriotism. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, colleagues and all who cherished his service. May his legacy endure and his soul rest in peace.”
A lot has been said about Mr. Mtumodzi, both his highs and lows as well as his hard hitting and bold approach to those who crossed his path, but the truth remains that this was a man whose life was one marked by a rare blend of eloquence and humility.
As a journalist, he was hard working, bold yet balanced—earning respect in newsrooms and beyond. As a State House spokesperson and later a Director in the Ministry of Information, he brought clarity to complex issues, often at critical moments in the nation’s journey.
In his final public service role, he headed the Department of Procurement and Supply Services with a strong hand and steady principles.
Government Spokesperson and Minister of Information, Moses Kunkuyu, echoed the national sentiment:
“Mtumodzi will be missed as a hardworking, patriotic son of the country who dedicated his life to serving the country.”
Family, friends, colleagues, and ordinary Malawians alike have expressed shock and sadness over the sudden loss of a man remembered not only for his intellect but for his kindness and generosity of spirit. One friend mourned: “Another soldier from our 90s generation gone too soon.”
The funeral arrangements. On Tuesday, May 6, at 11 a.m., his body will be collected from Mthunzi Funeral Home in Lilongwe and taken to his residence in Area 10. From there, it will depart at 3 p.m. for his home village of Chankhungu in Dowa District. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, May 7 at 10 a.m., followed by his burial at noon.
Mr. Mtumodzi’s life was a reflection of service beyond self. He stood as a bridge between government and the people, between communication and policy, between journalism and public trust. His legacy lies not only in the offices he held, but in the countless lives he interacted with and touched with his wisdom, humor, and honesty.
As Malawi lays to rest one of its most distinguished sons, State House’s tribute echoes in every corner of the nation: his memory will endure.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
