Father Claude Boucher, a dedicated Catholic priest who served at Mua mission in Dedza, has passed away.

He died yesterday at Kamuzu Central Hospital where he was receiving treatment.

His successor, Father Brenda O’shea has confirmed of the development in an interview with the press.

Father Boucher, affectionately known as ‘Achisale’ by locals, was instrumental in preserving Malawian culture at the mission.

He founded the Kungoni Centre of Culture and Arts in 1976, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Chewa, Ngoni, and Yao communities.

The centre features a museum with an extensive collection of Gule Wamkulu masks and offers insights into the interaction between traditional cultures and Christianity. Father Boucher, a Canadian missionary, spoke fluent Chichewa and was deeply knowledgeable about local customs and traditions.

He will be remembered for his remarkable contributions to cultural preservation and his dedication to the community.