Copyright times
By Daniel Zimba: The memory of Dr. George Nga Ntafu was honoured Sunday during a ceremonial unveiling of his tombstone at Green Corner, 10 years after his death in 2015. Ntafu—who was the first Malawian neurosurgeon and also served as Cabinet minister and member of Parliament for Likoma Island—died after being involved in a road accident on October 20, 2015. His tombstone unveiling ceremony attracted dignitaries and community members, each paying tribute to the legacy left behind by the late statesman and patriot. Tombstone construction committee chairperson, Ambassador Ziliro Chibambo, said Ntafu contributed significantly to Malawi’s democratic journey. “It is critical for our government leaders to recognise and acknowledge those who have had substantial impact on our national development,” Chibambo said. He urged the government to be providing assistance to notable figures in different disciplines, whether dead or alive. On his part, United Democratic Front (UDF) president Atupele Muluzi, who represented former State president Bakili Muluzi, reflected on Ntafu’s character, describing him as a humble, peace-loving individual who was known for his generosity and deep faith. “We must honour Dr Ntafu’s legacy and keep his family in our thoughts and prayers as we continue to build upon the foundations he laid,” Muluzi said. Family representative Jimmy Mbendela expressed gratitude to former State president Muluzi and Dr. Thom Mpinganjira for their financial support in erecting the tombstone. “We are overjoyed that the tombstone is now unveiled and deeply thankful for the assistance provided by the former president and all other well-wishers,” Mbendela said. Throughout his political career, Ntafu served as MP for the people of Likoma from 1999 to 2009 while serving as minister of Health, minister of Education and minister of Foreign Affairs during Bakili Muluzi’s administration. Ntafu was survived by wife Elvey Kalonga Ntafu, two children and two grandchildren.
