Chief Makupo’s Farewell Speech

Chief Makupo’s Farewell Speech

ed. Chief Makupo delivered this presentation just as we were leaving the village last August.

8:30 - 19 August 2010

Before I say goodbye to you, our beloved visitors, I have a few remarks to make.

I am extremely happy this morning, on this send-off ceremony. On behalf of Makupo people and indeed on my own behalf, we wish you a safe journey on your way back to Canada. We know you had a very wonderful moment here in Malawi and Makupo Village in particular. In fact, people of Makupo became and are now your brothers and sisters just in this short time of which memories of such event will remain in the blood of Makupo people for generation after generation.

Makupo People appreciate the role you are playing in developing Makupo people and village as well the villages around in many areas. During your stay here you may have experienced some rude behaviours which did not go well with you; please take it from me that it is not our style of cheering visitors. We cheer visitors in a way that they live happily, live on peace and harmony. Please accept our sincere apologies.

I know most of you are saying “Sheesh!!!! This is too early to leave Makupo.” I am sure of this, but because time is against us, there is nothing we can do to save the situation, for sure some of you are saying that. All the same there is still hope that you may come again and enjoy with your brothers and sisters of Makupo.

I am also compelled to point out here that our diet was not compatible with your standards. Nevertheless, most of you found it delicious, even if the preparation was substandard.

Your visit has created a bond of friendship, love and understanding so much that Makupo People and you have become intimates. I am very pleased to say that you have left a culture to our children to love communicating in English. It is very surprising to hear from as young as Loice Bwelezani, 4 years old, saying, and I quote, “How are you? I’m fine and you?” end quote. While on the other hand you have managed to pick some Chichewa words and sentences such as and I quote, “Muli bwanji? Tili bwino, kaya inu?” end quote. You have managed to put yourself into the world of linguists. You have written dictionaries which translate English words into ChiChewa. Really you will be super-models back home. The highest marks go to Alida for almost fluent speaking – 95%.

I was very impressed seeing Canadian students carrying babies on their backs. This is a sign of joy and appreciation, which existed at Makupo expressing their happiness indeed. You have done many things which I need not mention. Life changes take time but become easy where the environment is so cordial.

Turning to our two professors, Dr. C. Stonebanks and Barbara. I have been overwhelmed for your full participation in all activities taking place at Makupo; in the way you conducted your research and in the way you maneuvered around Makupo. People of Makupo became your brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews.

Your research was so magnificent that no-one complained and I have a hope that whatever information gathered will one day materialize to fruitful benefits. I am suggesting to open up a book where records of your visits be recorded so that our children may have something to refer to, as to what made this village and its people develop to such heights. This book will guide them to the answers.

Development by handouts only is no development. It is meaningful where there is a combination of research, advise and assistance. May you please understand our full co-operation and acceptance of this exercise in our village. Please feel free to conduct more and more research as you may wish at any time.

Please extend our heartfelt thanks to the respectful people of Canada, of your universities, your respectful homes and your respectful families for unflinching support to gladly accept that you come to Malawi and sleep with Makupo people.

Lastly let me thank Mr. Miller, who is head of delegation, Professor Dr. C. Stonebanks, Prof Barbara and the entire group for the wonderful visit.

God Bless You
Chief Makupo