Harry Kambwiri Matecheta

Harry Kambwiri Matecheta, also known as Reverend Harry (1870 – 1962) was a Nyasaland minister in Blantyre- the first African clergy and moderator in Malawi.

Biography Matecheta was a Yao from Nguludi in Che Lopsa’s village in Chiradzulu District. He first encountered Christianity at the age of six during a journey made by Henry Henderson and Bokwito from Cape Maclear to the Shire Highlands in 1876. The expedition aimed to identify a suitable mission site on behalf of the Church of Scotland. The site they selected later became Blantyre, named after David Livingstone's birthplace. Livingstone had previously travelled through the same region in the late 1850s.

In 1884, Matecheta enrolled at Bemvu Primary School These seven men were selected by Blantyre Mission superintendent David Clement Scott to form a group of deacons, marking an early stage in his programme to develop indigenous leadership within the African church.

In Bandawe during the 1920s, Mamie Martin organised classes for girls at a time when many families prioritised the education of their sons. Her husband, Jack Martin, was among the more progressives figures of the period. She was particularly impressed in 1924 after hearing Matecheta speak. "Reverend Harry" later became the first African ordained minister in Malawi.

Contemporary Presbytery of Blantyre records refer to Matecheta in a paternalistic manner as “Rev. Harry” rather than by his surname. He served at Mulanje Mission, Ntcheu, Blantyre, and other surrounding congregations for 46 years. In May 1933, he received a certificate of recognition for his service as a member of the district council and district school committee from King George V.

In 1951, an English translation of Matecheta's book was published. The work was republished in 2017.

In 2020, the CCAP Blantyre Synod held a commemorative service at Bemvu, marking 110 years since the beginning of his service. The event was attended by Joyce Banda on behalf of the president.

Personal life Matecheta married and had children, but they died due to malaria.