Well-known musician Lucius Banda who is also United Democratic Front (UDF) Member of Parliament for Balaka North has expressed shock over the death of veteran musician and former government’s Director of Culture (Arts and Crafts), Bernard Kwilimbe.
Kwilimbe died on Sunday evening at Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) where he was admitted.
Writing on his official facebook page, Banda expressed shock of the death of Kwilimbe.
“He wrote my first set of instruments and PA system when I wanted to form zembani. He has been my adviser always available to encourage me as a musician… last month he just honoured me and others with an award of eminence….. …tonight this great son of Malawi, the jazzman of all time Uncle Bernard kwirimbe of the rainseekers Band Has died….. May his soul rest in peace,” wrote Banda.
On his part, UDF spokesperson Ken Ndanga also expressed sadness.
“The song “Chidaona Moyo” was a hit back in the years. The man behind it was Ben Kwilimbe, then a teacher who rose through the,ranks to become a senior civil servant.
“When Khoza introduced him for the first time on the only radio station in Malawi, MBC that time, he referred to Kwilimbe as ” young but versatile”
He was backed by the Rain Seekers Band,” wrote Ndanga.
He added: “I hear until recently the civil service if not the whole Malawi had only two qualified choreographers Kwilimbe himself and Waliko Makhala.
“The two were the brains behind the popular kwacha cultural troupe.
“He was a persona in the arts industry with an impeccable experience with Malawi traditional music. He new the depth and width of the Malawi traditional music with finesse. Sad to hear the life curtains have closed, Kwilimbe the father of Apatsa, the gifted purcurssionist is no more.
“Again death has robbed us great talent, a complete teacher.”
Mewnhile the body of Kwilimbe will be laid to rest today at his home village.
