Malawi's music fraternity and the nation at large are in profound mourning following a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of five talented young musicians on Friday, December 26, 2025. The devastating incident occurred at Senzani in Ntcheu District, along the M1 Road, as the artists were travelling to Lilongwe for a scheduled performance. The victims, identified as Vincent Mkwinda (road manager), Raphael Chitsonga (drummer and sound engineer), Elivacy Muyaba (vocalist), Wilfred Kapengule Jnr (pianist), and MacFarlane Banda (guitarist), were all integral members of award-winning musician Eli Njuchi's Hive Band, widely regarded as some of the most gifted instrumentalists of their generation.

In response to the tragedy, the NICO Group, a prominent conglomerate including NBS Bank and Eris Properties, extended its deepest condolences and support through its creative sector strategic partner, the Copyright Fund. The NICO Group fondly recalled its recent positive interaction with the Hive Band, who performed with distinction and professionalism at its family day event earlier in the year. Demonstrating tangible solidarity during this difficult time, the Group has provided substantial financial assistance, offering K1 million to each of the bereaved families to aid with funeral arrangements.

Dora Makwinja, Administrator of the Copyright Fund, conveyed the NICO Group's shared grief, stating, "The NICO Group deeply shares the nation's grief following the tragic and untimely loss of these talented young artists. Through the Copyright Fund, we are offering financial support to assist the families during this difficult time. May the souls of our departed artists rest in peace." Beyond corporate condolences, national leadership also joined the mourning, with State President Arthur Peter Mutharika and Second Vice President Enock Chihana conveying messages of sympathy to the grieving families.

The untimely demise of these vibrant artists has sent shockwaves throughout Malawi's music industry, described by many as a devastating blow to the country's live music scene. Fellow musicians expressed their sorrow and respect for the lost talents. Award-winning artist Lawi lamented the incident as a "dark day for the industry," while international artist Onesimus stated that Malawi had lost "giants whose contribution to music would be deeply missed," underscoring the profound impact on their peers and the wider artistic community.

The immediate aftermath saw several scheduled performances cancelled as a mark of respect and a period of collective grief. Eli Njuchi, leader of the Hive Band, promptly called off his planned performance at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe. Other prominent artists, including Lulu, also announced the cancellation of their shows, as the entire music fraternity paused to mourn the irreplaceable loss of their colleagues and friends.