Seasoned musician Sir Paul Banda says he needs a kidney transplant and plans are underway for him to undergo the procedure in India.
He said the condition is demanding financially as he has to travel frequently for treatment in Blantyre from Balaka.
Commenting on the fundraising initiative that philanthropist Onjezani Kenani is leading, Banda said he is grateful for the gesture. He said the cost of receiving treatment is high and he hopes the initiative will help him.
“I am thankful for their kindness. My condition is very demanding financially and it has not been easy for us. I am so grateful to all who have contributed towards this cause,” he said.
The fundraising drive, according to Kenani, is meant to help the ailing musician.
He said the funds will cover the cost of Banda’s medical expenses.
The call from Kenani comes days after the death of the musician’s younger brother Lucius from a similar condition.
The condition requires the artist to travel to Blantyre twice a week for his dialysis at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.
In his Facebook post, Kenani said it is important to honour legends such as Paul Banda while they are alive. He said Banda’s impact on Malawi music is phenomenal, having led the explosion of talent from Balaka.
He said: “What death does, it pounces like a leopard in the dark and the only person you used to count on ends up being the first person to descend to eternal rest. That is exactly what has happened in the life of veteran musician Paul Banda.
“To survive, he relies on a dialysis machine found only at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital. Twice a week he must find himself there and these trips plus general care of his condition need money.” he said.
In an interview yesterday, Kenani said Malawi as a society cannot leave Paul Banda alone in the cold. He said there is need for people to come together to show him love while he is alive.
As of Tuesday, the fundraising initiative had raised K2.6 million. Kenani said the appeal for support will be closed on Friday when he will hand over the money to the musician.
