Tributes are pouring in following the death of renowned actor and film producer Ashukile Mwakisulu, who passed away yesterday in Blantyre after a long battle with cancer.

Film Association of Malawi (FAM) vice president Gilbert Moyo described Mwakisulu’s death as a major loss to the country’s film industry, saying he was a unifying figure whenever disagreements arose among filmmakers.

“We have lost a critical part of our industry. Mwakisulu was a leader and a motivator to upcoming actors. He once served as vice president of the association and helped shape the film industry into what it is today,” said Moyo.

Mwakisulu rose to national fame after playing the role of Saidi in the 2012 film The Last Fishing Boat by filmmaker Shemu Joyah.

Joyah described Mwakisulu as a passionate and talented filmmaker who was deeply committed to his craft.

“Ashukile was a pioneer in the industry. Apart from playing a leading role in The Last Fishing Boat, he also featured in The Road to Sunrise and played a critical role in my short film on John Chilembwe, Strike a Blow and Die,” said Joyah.

“After The Last Fishing Boat, he went on to produce his own television series that aired on local stations. He was working on another project and had invited me to assist with editing. I don’t know what will happen to it now that he is gone.”

Most recently, Mwakisulu starred as the lead actor in Joyce Mhango Chavula’s 2025 film The Gunless Soldier, which won an award at the YORA International Film Awards.

Mhango Chavula praised him as a selfless and humble professional who always supported others on set.

“He was so humble and willing to work with everyone regardless of their status. Ashukile always helped upcoming actors, guiding them to perform their best,” she said.

According to his brother Wandumi Mwakisulu, the late film icon will be laid to rest tomorrow, Wednesday, at his home village in Karonga.

Ashukile Mwakisulu, aged 50, hailed from Mwakisulu Village, Traditional Authority Kilupula, in Karonga district.