Malawian President, Rita Marley widow honored as Living Legends

MALAWI’s president Joyce Banda and widow of the Reggae King Bob Marley Rita Marley were honored as living legends at the 7th African Communications Agency (ACA) International African Media Summit (AIMS) held in Malawi capital, Lilongwe, on Sunday evening. Presenting the award to the two at a colorful Living Legends Banquet held at the Bingu International Conference Centre, President and founder of ACA Dr. Erieka Bennett described President Banda and Rita Marley as “true Africans who cared about Africa in their everyday life.“ She said an international panel of judges had unanimously chosen the two as respective Living Legends looking at their selfless efforts in presenting the good image of Africa through their charitable services. “Our organization, ACA, believes in acknowledging people’s efforts and their services of good will while they are still living,” said Bennett, adding “we see no point in waiting for such selfless people to die first before we say ‘they were good people. ‘” Bennett said President Joyce Banda was a phenomenal icon who was being recognized for her humanitarian efforts towards the development of women and children in Africa, even before being the Africa’s second female president and first female president in Malawi. She said ACA had scheduled for the 7th AIMS and Living Legends Banquet to be held in Jamaica but the organizers had to reschedule it to Malawi following President Banda’s ascending to Malawi presidency in April. On the other hand, Bennett described the other Living Legend honoree Rita Marley as a woman who had the passion for Africa and that the artist had, through her music and charitable services, promoted the image of Africa.”Nana Rita Marley is a woman who is very proud to be African,” said Bennett.