By Sellaphine Banda

Lilongwe, June 11, Mana: After taking a four year break in the music industry, veteran reggae artist, Sally Nyundo, is expected to release his new album titled Sanctified on June 29 this year.

In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA), on Wednesday, Nyundo of the Ras Amadya Mzimbe  fame said he is officially back with an explosive album which has eight  songs in both English and Chichewa languages.

“I think it is time to break the silence after releasing my last album in 2016. This is one of my greatest albums that have ever been produced from outside the country. I am optimistic my fans will appreciate both the quality and sound of the music,” he said.

Commenting on his absence in the music business, Nyundo revealed that currently he is based in South Africa where he has been committed to other engagements.

“I took a long break before coming up with this album paving way for reflection on a number of things in my career.  While on that, I was also upgrading my studies in South Africa,” he said.

Feeling fresh and rebranded, Nyundo decided to come up with the Sanctified album which is a narrative of his life journey and spiritual welfare.  

With an eye on the international market, the Kukuchedwa Kucha hitmaker, admits that music has changed and as an artist it is important to grow with time while maintaining the brand.

“My message to all my fans is that they should expect fireworks from the songs curtailing real life experiences for they possess an intimate touch to the soul,” he said

Mphatso Phiri, a Lilongwe-based fan of Sally Nyundo, is in anticipation of the new album saying Nyundo’s absence has been felt in the music circles.

The album which has been recorded in South Africa and was produced by Criss Kelly at Blue studios has songs such as Mwachita zazikulu, Mukhale Nane, Love so Divine, Forgive us Father, Ku madzi Odekha,  and Suffer in Silence which was released in 2012 and Ndaona Kuwala which  features the hit  Alinawo Maso and Sakhala Chete.

The post ‘Kukuchedwa Kucha’ Hitmaker Sally Nyundo Back On Stage appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Moses Nyirenda

Lilongwe, June 14, Mana: The Lilongwe based DJs will host a rare festival dubbed ‘Drive in car Fest’ on June 21, 2020 at Lilongwe Golf Club,  as a way of providing entertainment to people of Lilongwe and surrounding areas amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

In an interview with one of the DJs lined for the festival, DJ Wayne said all was set for the festival to take place.

“Everything is in place for the upcoming festival and this includes; magnificent sound and good stage. We are calling the festival as ‘Drive in car Fest’ because the patrons will be given a radio frequency which will allow them to patronise the show while seated in their cars.

“This setup has been done to maintain social distance as one way of preventing the spread of the Coronavirus disease among the participants during the show.

“For this reason, all patrons will not be allowed to move out of their cars during the festival unless otherwise,” DJ Wayne said.

He added that apart from enjoying the music played, the attendees will also enjoy photo shoot session with amazing models and will also get their cars washed among other activities.

According to DJ Wayne, other DJs on the list for the festival include; VJ Ice, DJ Maya and DJ Shortie.

He further said participants to the show will be asked to pay K2000 on the door while food and drinks will be sold separately at reasonable prices.

The DJ also said the festival will be the first of its kind to happen in the country; hence an appeal to fun-seekers to patronise the event in their large numbers.

“The festival will happen here in Malawi for the first time, therefore, I am encouraging the residents of Lilongwe and surrounding areas who love entertainment to patronise the event in large numbers,” he said.

One of the Lilongwe-based fun seekers, Fraser Konzentani said he was ready to patronise the festival.

“It is my first time to hear about car festival happening here in Malawi and I am very curious to patronise this event to experience the new development in as far as entertainment is concerned,” Konzentani said.

The festival has been organised by AV and Tech Team under Sound Addicts Studios in collaboration with Great Dominion TV and Pentecostal Life (PL) FM Radio.

The post All Set For Drive In Car Festival- DJ Wayne appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Loness Gwazanga

Blantyre, June 22, Mana: After a long musical break, Blantyre based all-male gospel Acapella group, the Joyful Souls is set to release a National Anthem remix in order to urge Malawians to embrace peace.

The group’s manager, Blams Fudzulani told Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Monday that the song reminds everyone that God loves the country amidst different challenges the country is facing.

“It is just by coincidence that the song is being released now when there is political turmoil in the country. The idea to record it was hatched long time ago but God allowed, maybe with a purpose to release it now.

“So we decided to pay more particular attention to our national anthem by rearranging and blending the Acapella touch.

We have done this with a hope that the much needed message in the national anthem goes to all of us that we have a beautiful country and if we all ask God to bless our nation, we are going to continue enjoying the peace and harmony as the warm heart of Africa,” said Fudzulani.

Recorded by Arthur Chidothe of Classic Records, the song will be enjoyed through different foras as no show has been arranged to launch it in the wake of COVID-19, according to the manager.

Founded in 1995, by among others, Rodgers Mpinganjira and Jolly Ntaba, the Seventh Day affiliated group has three albums to its credit namely: Tidzauluka, Adzaweruza and Abweranso.

Currently, the eight member singing group only has Mpinganjira as the longest surviving member since its inception 23 years ago.

The post Joyful Souls Back With National Anthem Remix appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Sellaphine Banda

After taking a break in the studio songbird and dancehall artist, Sangie, together with Piksy have retuned with an acoustic set released on Friday.

In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA) in Lilongwe on Friday Sangie said the duo has decided to come up with the acoustic song in order to satisfy demands of their fans whom she said miss live shows due to Covid-19 pandemic.

She said it is time to break the silence which has come due to the pandemic.

“This is part of making our fans not to forget us hence coming together with Piksy in this song. The song applies to our daily life in the sense that whatever we are going through a day of recovering is coming,” she said.

The songbird said she decided to work with Piksy for the first time, not just as a friend, but as someone she respects in the music industry describing their collaboration as a sneak peak of what is to come for the duo.

She described the project as one of her greatest collaboration she has ever produced saying her fans will appreciate both the sound and quality of the music.

Commenting on her collaboration with Piksy, Sangie said fans should expect fireworks from the duo and the best music saying they are not leaving any stone unturned.

Feeling fresh and rebranded, Sangie decided to come up with the Revelation which is a narrative of daily life.  

With an eye on the international market, the Mayi wa Ngwiro fame admits that music has changed and as an artist it is important to grow with time while maintaining the brand.

“My message to all my fans is that they should expect fireworks from the songs curtailing real life experiences for they possess an intimate touch to the souls,” she said.

Her message in this time is that people should learn to work extra harder, love one another and be themselves, stay safe and protect themselves and others from Covid-19.

Commenting on her Facebook page Penjani Nyirongo said, the acoustic is massive in terms of quality picture and sound.

The post Sangie, Piksy Drop Acoustic Set appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Blessings Kapina

Lilongwe, July 4, Mana; Lilongwe based renowned music group Grace Life Clique is this year set to drop a video of a song titled ‘Tiyenazo.’

In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA) in Lilongwe on Friday the group’s Coordinator Peter Malenga who goes by the stage name, Hogus, described the yet to be released video as an encouragement for people not to give up on God when faced with various challenges and struggles of life.

He said there are times that people are tempted to renounce their faith in Jesus due to afflictions and suffering they are passing through and as such the video is produced to give life to the concept.

Malenga said the video is produced to help telling a story of how people struggle in life and assist them to fully understand the message that is in the song.

He added that, apart from listening people are also interested in watching which has lead the group to producing the video as one way of reaching people with the gospel in their medium of interest.

“We believe producing the video will make the message in the song more impactful and meaningful than just releasing an audio,” he said.

As a music group, Grace Life Clique, has discovered that in music industry there are different audiences whose likings are also different and as such working on the video was meant to meet the liking of such audiences.

“Our mission is to preach the gospel to all nations so we are certain that the video will reach many people and they will be encouraged by the message in the song,” he pointed out.

In a separate interview, one of the artists under Grace Life Clique, Kennie Banda who goes by the stage name, Massive, said fans should expect a good production with more creativity in the video.

“We believe Tiyenazo song with the creativity in the video will really encourage young people to keep the fire burning regardless of challenges they encounter on their way to success,” Massive said.

The video produced by DG Prinko and audio by Draven at Extreme Mic Studio will be available on Youtube and other websites.

The post Grace Life To Drop ‘Tiyenazo’ Video appeared first on Malawi Voice.

One of the leading financial Institutions in Malawi, FDH Bank has pledged to donate MK 2 Million to veteran musician Giddes Chalamanda.  

FDH Bank Public Relations Officer, Lorraine Lusinje made the announcement in an interview with a local press.

She made the announcement few days after FHD’s brand ambassador Patience Namadingo pledged that the Bank will construct a grocery for the music icon Chalamanda.

“The MK2 million package is distributed as follows, MK500,000 as payment for mash-up performance and then MK1,500 000 for the grocery and stocking it,” said Lusinje adding that Chalamanda will also be FDH Banki Pakhomo agent.

Gidesi Chalamanda commonly known as “Giddes” is a 90 year old a Malawian acoustic artist.

The post FDH Bank Bails Out Legendary Artist Giddes appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Blessings Kapina

Lilongwe-based music group Akoustics is set to release a single titled ’Praise version 1’ this Friday.

Through the single, the group is giving praise to God for his greatness and majesty as well as encouraging the broken-hearted.

In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA) leader of the group Sydney Malefula Jnr whose stage name is Sydmell said the single is meant to give hope to the hopeless in the face of various challenges and hardships.

“The song will help people in such situations to be comforted and relieved. And we want them to understand the essence of praise. When we praise God, His glory comes down,” Malefula said.

The Gospel artist said the life of praise attracts the presence of God which shatters and scatters the devil’s evil schemes and plans against the saints and as such the song appreciates the great works of God in creation.

“We are turning people’s minds to focus on praising God even in their tough situations knowing that our God is fighting our battles. And there is a high degree of comfort and rest that comes on those who live in praise,” he said.

The group wants to launch another wave of music and as such fans should expect powerful messages and good music with more creativity.

Malefula said, the group is on a move to bring new rhythm in the music industry by focusing on singing with less instruments hence the yet to be released single used only the acoustic guitar.

“We wanted to bring something different in praising God through music. Most of our music is full of so many instruments but we realised people also need such music with less instruments, but no one has ever come to the ground and produced it hence the single,” said Malefula.

In a separate interview, one of the artists in the song, Patricia Msiska, said Praise Version 1 is a song which is more about praising the almighty God for all His wondrous and marvellous works towards mankind.

“God is always there for us to lead us and help us, therefore, fans should expect to be blessed with the song they already know but sang in a slight different way,” she said.

The single produced by Madela will be premiered on Channel for All Nations (CAN) radio and will be available for download on Spiritunez.

The post Akoustics To Release Single Friday appeared first on Malawi Voice.

MultiChoice Nigeria has revealed that the winner for Big Brother Naija season five reality show will walk away with a whopping N85m ( about 77,299U$) grand prize.

The grand prize which includes a N30 Million cash prize, makes this season’s winnings the biggest since its debut back in 2006 and highest prize for reality TV show on the continent!

Chief Executive Officer, MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe said: “The fifth season of BBNaija marks a major milestone in the reality TV series.

We are making this season significant by not only increasing the winnings but by also implementing other creative and innovative ways to ensure the show lives up to the premium entertainment especially during the current pandemic.”

The breakdown of the grand prize for BBNaija season five includes: a N30m cash prize; a two-bedroom apartment courtesy Revolution Plus; a top of the range SUV from Nigerian automaker, Innoson Motors; a trip to Dublin courtesy Guinness; home appliances courtesy Scanfrost.

A trip to Dubai packaged by Travelbeta; a year’s supply of Indomie noodles, Munch it and Colgate toothpaste; a year’s supply of Pepsi, a branded chiller and a trip to watch the UEFA Champions League finale; and a brand new Oppo mobile smartphone

Meanwhile, MultiChoice will in the coming days reveal other surprises for viewers and fans of the show.

BBNaija season 5 will be broadcast live and 24/7 on DStv channel 198 and GOtv Max and Jolli (Plus) packages on channel 29.

DStv viewers can also follow the drama this season with the DStv Now app on a smartphone, tablet or laptop.

DStv customers who would like to opt-out of viewing the show can do so by sending “Smart card number [space] BBOUT” to 30333.

While GOtv customer, can do same by sending “IUC Number [space] BBOUT” to 30333.

 Additionally, customers can activate the parental control option on their DStv and GOtv decoders for viewers younger than 18 years.

In order not to miss a moment of the entertainment on BBNaija season 5, fans are encouraged to sign up on DStv today via www.dstvafrica.com or get GOtv Max or Jolli (Plus) on www.gotvafrica.com, and download the MyDStv and MyGOtv apps from the app store for more self-service options. 

Betway is the Headline sponsor of BBNaija season 5 and the Gold sponsor is Guinness.

Given the prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic, MultiChoice Nigeria has assured viewers that global best practices, precautions and preventive measures will be followed throughout the show.

The post Big Brother Naija Winner to Walk Away With N85 Million Grand Prize appeared first on Malawi Voice.

The much awaited fifth season of BBNaija themed ‘The Lockdown Edition’ officially kicked off on Sunday the 19^th of July, and it was everything we expected and more.

Returning host Ebuka got the show rolling by taking viewers on a tour of house before introducing the 20 housemates who will be vying for the N85m grand prize.

The housemates are exciting, adventurous, unique, daring and poised to give viewers a good show for the next 71 days!

Here are your Housemates:

Emuobonuvie “Neo” Akpofure(26), popularly referred to as Neo, is a ride-hailing app driver and a Delta State native. Although he describes himself as fun, tolerant, loving and smart, he won’t hesitate to be IndaboskiBahose when it comes to issues concerning bullying and inequality

Eric Akhigbe(24) is a final year student at the University of Lagos and hails from Edo State. The bodybuilder is a confident hunk who takes pride in his 1.95m height. He describes himself as a fun, competitive sports and fitness enthusiast who enjoys winning. In addition, Eric also describes himself as a shy person who takes his time to unveil his wild side.

Timmy Sinclair is a 35-year-old creative artist and Lagos resident who hails from Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Tricky Tee as he is also known considers himself a storyteller who uses film and music to express himself.

Consultant and entrepreneur Ozoemena “Ozo” Chukwu (27), is from Imo State. One of his greatest achievements is working with a UEFA Federation in Europe. It is no surprise then that when he is not busy consulting or managing his urban clothing line, you’ll find him analysing sports and watching documentaries and TV shows.

Terseer Kiddwaya(27) is self-employed and comes from Benue State. Being a Big Brother Naija season 5 Housemate has Kiddwaya anticipating a better and crazier 2020. He describes himself as confident, good looking, ambitious, a daredevil who is highly motivated. It is no surprise then that “bringing back the fun into the House” is what he won’t compromise on this season.

Lucy Essien is a 30-year-old entrepreneur from Lagos. Though she is a self-proclaimed simple girl and assures everyone that she is far from average. She believes in fairy tales, and hopefully, Biggie’s House will deliver just that for her.

Florence Wathoni Anyansi is a 29-year-old fashion entrepreneur. This multi-talented single mother juggles a fashion business and a parenting blog. She is also bilingual and speaks and writes in Swahili fluently.

Aisha ‘Kaisha’ Umaru is a 25-year-old entrepreneur from Sokoto state. This adventurous young woman considers herself a great team player who gets along with people. She relies on a healthy diet and is God-fearing.

Tolani Baj is a 27-year-old media personality from Lagos state. Tolani is an energetic gingered babe. People always call her the life of the party and when she’s not entertaining, she’s dancing and cooking

Dorathy Bachor is a 24-year-old entrepreneur from Lagos. She believes she is the only one who can make you smile. Her sassiness will prove to be an asset in Biggie’s house.

Victoria “Vee” Adeyele (23) is a musician based in Lagos, Nigeria. Vee, as she is affectionately known, was born and raised in London and moved to Lagos almost a year ago to begin her music career where she has already made great strides

Rebecca “Nengi” Hampson (22) is an entrepreneur from Bayelsa State, Nigeria. She is a former model and MBGN Top 5 contestant who loves learning new things, having fun, travelling, taking on new adventures, and being true to herself. Nengi, as she prefers to be called, studied communications at the University of Port Harcourt and is a proud Capricorn. She proclaims: “If you want the job done right, give it to a Capricorn. I put 110% of my energy and enthusiasm into everything I do.”

Kate “Ka3na” Jones (26) is an entrepreneur from Rivers, Nigeria. She describes herself as a strong woman who wants more from life. Her dream is to be famous and own the biggest luxury fashion brand in the world. She also believes she will make the perfect Housemate because she is ready to do all it takes to compete and win Big Brother Naija season 5.

Ngozi “Erica” Nlewedim (26) is an actress and commercial model from London, England. Erica is the name she goes by and she returned to Lagos after studying screen acting at the Met Film School in London.

Boluwatife “Lilo” Aderogba (23) is a dietitian from Lagos, Nigeria. Lilo, as she prefers to be known, is also an entrepreneur and describes herself as “a product of God’s grace”.

Olamilekan “Laycon” Agbeleshe is a 26-year-old singer and rapper from Lagos. He’s a graduate of philosophy from the University of Lagos who started his musical journey at an early age and has now emerged as one of Nigeria’s most promising new school acts. He describes himself as being versatile and able to coin words together to soothe scenarios and moods.

Ezekiel Bright “Brighto” Osemudiame is a 29-year-old sailor from Edo State. Brighto, as he is fondly called, is the youngest of six kids. He holds a degree in Marine Engineering from Arab Academy for Science Technology and Maritime Transport in Alexandria, Egypt with several other professional certifications. He also had a stint in the aviation sector. He considers himself an avid entertainment lover and a people’s person.

Praise Nelson is a 28-year-old dancer from Enugu. Not new to fame or competing, he was a winner at the K-Pop World Festival, South Korea 2015 and won third place at a national Dance Competition in 2010. He is also a fitness and personal trainer and a certified Latin ballroom expert.

TochukwuOkechukwuTochi is a 28-year-old rapper and real estate agent from Imo state. He lives and breathes entertainment. He confesses to being clumsy on some days!

Nelson Enwerem Prince (24) is an entrepreneur from Abia. A jack-of-all-trades whose portfolio includes modelling, fashion designing and interior decoration. He enjoys active sports and reading about ancient religions and African history. He’s a graduate of pure physics from the University of Calabar and is currently living in Lagos.

A fresh twist this season is the Lock-in competition which gives fans the ability to lock-in a favourite housemate who they think will win the show.

The lock-in period will be open from Thursday, July 30^th till Monday, August 3^rd and will be available on MyDStv and MyGOtv apps.

The post Video: Meet Big Brother Naija Lockdown Housemates appeared first on Malawi Voice.

Malawian comedian turned-politician Dr. Micheal Usi popularly known as Manganya on says cabinet position will not be a hindrance to his acting career.

President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera recently appointed Dr. Usi as a Minister responsible for Tourism, Culture and Wildlife.

“The name Manganya will not die…I am an artist and so why should I stop something which I love and I am in love with?

Even President Lazarus Chakwera encouraged me to continue and so all I am telling the nation is that I am still in it,” Dr. Usi on Wednesday in Blantyre.

Dr. Usi, who is the brain behind ‘Tifurenji?’ television series, joined active politics in 2019 after named presidential runningmate for UTM party.

The post Manganya to Continue Acting appeared first on Malawi Voice.

Blessings Kapina

Lilongwe, July 26, Mana; A Lilongwe-based musician, Mthunzi whole real name is Gift Mthunzi has drop a single titled ‘Azakulandira’.

 The Artist told Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Saturday said that, the single is meant to preach the gospel to the youth so that they should believe in Jesus Christ and in the end be saved.

‘’I believe that the youths are energetic and strong to easily take the gospel to the next level and it is very important to preach and mentor them so that they can be the vessels of the good news,’’ he said.

Mthunzi said the song is an inspiration from the book of John 3; 15-16 which calls all people to have faith in Jesus who was offered for mankind as sacrifice so that those who will believe in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

He added that, the song was composed to give hope to the hopeless youths who are walking in darkness that there is still hope for them to be saved by Jesus and enjoy His blessings.

‘’The song is going to bring a huge impact because the message in it is just straight forward, clear and easy for the young people to understand,’’ Mthunzi added.

The Musician pointed out that, he is addressing the youth because they are the ones who are involved in malpractice.

He is encouraging them to go back to God whenever they are lost and He shall welcome them again regardless of their sins.

Mthunzi said that as an artist he feels happy when he is around and preaching to the fellow youth because they easily understand his language rather than the old.

He chose music to preach the gospel as it the easiest way to reach the lost souls to places he cannot physically reach.

The song produced by DJ OK at Home Made Studio is available for download on Mikozi Network website.

The post Up-coming Gospel Artist Mthunzi Drops ‘Azakulandira’ appeared first on Malawi Voice.

Blessings Kapina

Lilongwe, July 27, Mana: A Lilongwe-based  renowned dancehall musician, Sir Creedy, whose real name is Isaac Maulidi, is set to drop his single titled ‘KICKS’ on August 10, this year.

The dancehall Apostle Sir Creedy told Malawi News Agency (MANA) that, the single is meant to inspire young people to preach the gospel, and as such the message has been wrapped up in their language hence the title ‘KICKS’.

“KICKS mean shoes and when I was coming up with the concept I had Romans 10:15 which say beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news.

“So many young people are into shoes that is why I came up with the title because it is catchy but I’m not really talking about shoes in a literal sense,” Creedy said

Part of the song goes, Gideon boots pon mi feet look sharp/ mi nuh drug dealer but mi a look dope/addidas or a Jordan/mi love mi kicks when mi touch a road man/ inndi streets yeh mi dehyah/ anywhere mi dehdehanjel a go dehdeh / fresh and clean new kicks man dehyah/ mi nuh have no time fi sidung (sit down) a chair/ when people perish and burn in hell.

According to Sir Creedy, the song featured David Kalilani as such, people should expect to be inspired as well as have fun listening to it.

In a separate interview, Kalilani said that in the song he is comparing the way people focus so much on outward physical fitness to the way they ignore the spiritual needs and focus on how those who preach the gospel beautiful feet.

“This message remains constant. It is a command for us to share the good news of Jesus and we need to constantly remind young people not to be afraid of the message of Jesus,” Kalilani said.

The heavyweight Gospel artist said that he believes that Sir Creedy is passionate about the gospel such that he preaches on the streets frequently and this is something that drew him to know Creedy better.

Kalilani complimented Creedy that he is the future of urban music in Malawi and he is proud of him.

The single which was produced by Chozizwa and its beat made by Asodzi will premiere on Radio2 FM’s Made on Monday program.

Those interested can access the song on Mikozi network website, Spiritunez, Reverbnation, YouTube among others.

The artist has released a considerable number of singles such as Clean like Tonga featuring Sobre from Zambia and he is expected to be dropping his Extended Play on August 15, 2020.

The post Dancehall Artist Sir Creedy Feat David Kalilani in Kicks appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Blessings Kaunda,MANA

Mzuzu Court House on Tuesday adjourned hearing of a case for rapper Fredokiss, real name Penjani Kaluwa and two of his friends as the presiding Magistrate did not report for work due to new Covid-19 working program at the court.

Fredokiss was arrested on 23^rd June and was charged with the offense of offering handouts during Fresh Presidential Elections contrary to Presidential and Parliamentary Elections Act (PPEA).

In an interview at Mzuzu Court House, lawyer representing Kaluwa, Leonard Mbulo, said the court is now working in shifts due to Covid-19 pandemic hence the development.

“It is indeed true that today we were supposed to have court hearing for Penjani Kaluwa and two of his friends unfortunately the presiding magistrate of the case was not around.

“A programme has just been released and she will be coming to office every Monday because of Covid-19 pandemic as the court has decided to reduce number of employees at working place,” said Mbulo.

He said the registry has advised to give another date when the case will commence.

Fredokiss was arrested in Rumphi by Malawi Defence Force (MDF) soldiers and was subsequently handed over to police.

The post Fredokiss Case Adjourned to Unknown Date appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Ireen Kayira

Lilongwe, August 4, Mana:  Lions Club District 412B has donated Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs) to Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) to assist in the fight against Covid-19.

Speaking during the handover ceremony in Lilongwe at KCH Monday,  Lions Club District 412B Governor, Ken Banda said the donation was part of the money that the Lions Club International(LCI) has given to Malawi to assist the health system .

“We had informed the Lions Club International about the plight of health workers in the country in regards to the escalation of Covid-19,” he said.

Banda said LCI has been given them an amount of 10,000 dollars to assist in the fight of the pandemic and it would be channelled three central hospitals in Lilongwe, Blantyre and Mzuzu.

“Lions in general are involved in issues of health as some of the pillars are diabetes, sight, Childhood cancer as such all issues that involve health are our priority,” he said.

KCH Public Relations Officer (PRO), Chiyanjano Kazombo said the need for PPEs was high at the hospital because the PPEs available are disposable as such there was need for the hospital to be supplied all the time.

“The number of people infected people is getting high every day and the isolation centre is getting full as such workers who are working there are in need of the equipments  as they attend to a lot of patients,” she said.

Kazombo said when the there was the cases were new in the country there were few people in the isolation centre but as of late the number of people increasing at the isolation centre .

The post Lions Club Donates Personal Protective Equipment to Kamuzu Central Hospital appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Sylvester Kumwenda

After decades of an outstanding career, Sir Paul Banda is ready to impart music knowledge to people interested in learning music as he is set to start offering private music lessons.

His brother, Lucius Banda revealed this Wednesday through his Facebook page when he praised Sir Banda on an outstanding and unique musical adventure his brother has had over the years.

“He taught himself how to play the guitar and sing in the seventies. He is the man who has made a lot of us exist musically. He is our teacher, our mentor, our producer. He studied jazz in Bergamo-Italy in the eighties; he can play and teach almost any instrument.

“With this background, I decided to plead with him to offer his teaching skills to those wanting to learn how to play music.

Lilongwe you are blessed, soon you will be able to enroll and end your musical illiteracy. We will soon announce how one will access him privately,” posted Lucius Banda.

In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA), Lucius Banda confirmed of the development saying this will  give a chance to people interested in learning how to play music instruments to learn from probably one of the best the soils of Malawi have to offer.

He said the COVID-19 pandemic provided ample time for them to reflect and explore things which could have been done but never happened, one of which was providing music lessons to interested people who are ready to pay for that.

“Paul has always been a music teacher; he has taught all of us, he has taught at Andiamo, but not on a serious note, here we are talking about people actually paying.

“I am very sure he is going to put all his heart on to it. It is basically teaching someone how to use an instrument which could be a 3 or 6 months course depending on the learner,” he said.

Banda said the initial classes will be available in Lilongwe on dates to be announced in due course.

“While we are starting with Lilongwe, we will have a small secretariat helping people who are far which will be giving lessons via voice notes, video calls because Paul can ably teach via those mediums,” he said.

Banda added saying a lot of Malawians have fallen in love with music and many are eager to pursue music as a career or for their own personal use.

This he said has been witnessed by numerous purchases people are making on music instruments in the many shops in Malawi.

However, he said, many people have not had a chance to learn how to play music instruments because of lack of suitable tutors or mentors, and as such; people only keep their instruments as trophies in their homes.

“We believe this will help a lot of people especially adults, and all those who have fallen in love with music, so people must get ready,’ said Banda.

There will be two kinds of approaches; those who have an instrument will be using their own instruments while those without any will be using Yimbirani Yawe (IY) equipment.

The post Veteran Musician Sir Paul Banda to Start Offering Music Lessons appeared first on Malawi Voice.

Renown Business Lady and socialist Dorothy Shonga popularly known as ‘Cash Madame’ on Sunday made her first facebook post after being released on bail by a Malawian court.

Dorothy who is the owner D.C Brand Cloud, a local branding and marketing company was arrested alongside Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) Chief Executive Officer Collings Magalasi on fraud and Money laundering charges.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb…God bless you’ll,” posted Shonga on her official facebook account, a post which attracted over five thousand likes and one thousand comments within six hours.

One of the cash Madame Facebook follower Pilirani Chilumbwa commented: “Dorothy shonga. Keep going. Keep pushing there is light and happiness at the end of this entire struggle.”

According to the state the accused persons Forced the MERA Internal Procurement and Disposal Committee to award a contract worth K107 million to Vink Enterprise which is owned by Shonga.

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The 90-year-old Malawian musician, Giddes Chalamanda has asked well-wishers in the country to help him in renovating his dilapidated house.

The veteran Musician Chalamanda made the appeal on Tuesday in an interview with MIJ Online.

.”When it rains, it means all my clothes get soaked as the house leaks. This is a very bad situation for me and I am therefore seeking assistance for my house, a project which requires about MK3 Million,” said Chalamanda, a Malawian acoustic artist.

Recently, FDH Bank brand ambassador Patience Namadingo assisted Chalamanda with MK 2 Million and the bank also promised him capital to start a small scale business.

The post Giddes Chalamanda Needs MK 3 Million Kwacha to Renovate His House appeared first on Malawi Voice.

By Loness Gwazanga

Blantyre, August 12, Mana: Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) staff on Tuesday visited and cheered celebrated Pamajiga artist Elson Soko, popularly known as Anyoni who has been sick for a while now at his home in Machinjiri, Blantyre.

MBC Director General, Aubrey Sumbuleta told the press that Soko had played an important role on educating, informing and entertaining the nation in as far as MBC’s broadcasting business was concerned, hence the need to be by his side until he gets back to his feet.

Sumbuleta then assured that he would ensure the artist is sent to a good hospital where best treatment is guaranteed.

“We take Soko as a member of MBC family and when we heard about his sickness, we decided to come and cheer him.

“Artists play an important role in broadcasting business and therefore, we cannot forsake them when they are in trouble,” said Sumbuleta.

He added: “As MBC, we shall discuss with our mother ministry on how best we can help and take him to a good hospital for best treatment.

“We are optimistic that with the intervention, he shall be back on his feet and continue serving Malawians.”

In his remarks, Soko said he was thankful for the kind gesture and expressed hope of getting better the soonest.

“I have been part of MBC for a very long time and it has uplifted my life to this far. My journey with MBC had been interesting such that over the years, I became a household name and thus, regard MBC as part of me.

“With your support, I am hopeful that I will get better so that I continue where I stopped,” said Soko.

Assorted food items as well as cash was given to him in order to keep his family going, a gesture Soko described as commendable and would go a long way improving his life.

The post MBC Cheers Legendary ‘Anyoni’ appeared first on Malawi Voice.

BY PETER MAKOSSAH

In 1994, the Malawian omni-decorated music kingpin and most celebrated songwriter, composer and singing sensation, Lucius Banda released his maiden album, Son of a poor man, which had in it, chart-topping and dancefloor-filler hit-single, Mabala.

His name immediately became an instant and regular feature on people’s lips while his music quickly captured every Jack and Jill’s heart’s ears and souls.

In that same year, I finished my secondary school. One day, Lucius Banda and his newly formed music group, Zembani Band were playing was playing an afternoon shows at Lilongwe Community Ground – I think this was his very first gig as a solo artist in Lilongwe.

As a school leaver, with no job yet, I had all the time in the world to attend that show. So I left home in Area 25 to go and watch the now famous Lucius Banda live. When I got to town, I met some friends we decided to go to Lilongwe Central Tavern to imbibe some Chibuku to garner some morale for the big show.I ended up spending the money which was meant to be my entry fees to Lucius Banda’s show.

Lilongwe Central Tavern was a bad place – anthu ankadyera fees ukuku.So, with the intoxication, I gathered some Dutch Courage and told myself that I will gatecrash. “Ndikaventcha basi!” I assured myself. I think this was the opaque beer talking on my behalf having crippled my medulla oblangata.I got to Lilongwe Community Ground just as the show was about to start and I joined a group of many other boys who were on the same mission as I was – yoventcha.

I started climbing the fence and as I jumped into the stadium, a blinged up Lucius Banda brandishing neck gold chains and bangles on his arms and wearing a table-cut otherwise known as phanke, and his security guys were waiting and so I was caught. Someone must have tipped them that some people were jumping into the show on that corner where there was no barbed wire – waya wa sing’enge.

Lucius Banda looked all gangsterish and somewhat rough-and-tough to me. He was not what I expected – some sweet gentleman. Lucius Banda authoritatively gave me two hard choices. To either pay or climb back out. Both choices were bad for me. But I’d to go for the lesser evil. But now the problem was that I didn’t have the money to pay as I had used it for Chibuku at Lilongwe Central Tavern, which at that time was fondly called Central TV and the only money I had was for my bus fair.

The second problem was if i had to back out, i would have to climb through the barbed wire. I paid with my only and last money, my transport money, but after some negotiations, as it was not enough.

Remember the biblical story of a woman who gave little but all of her money?That was my situation. The price I paid was little but the value tied to it was priceless.The show was great. I enjoyed to the brim. It was, to say the least, one of the best times of my boyish life. The Chibuku in my head gave me the oomph to boogie the gig away, song after song.

After the show, I walked up to Lucius and told him that it was a great show and that I really enjoyed but that I now would have to walk home. Lucius Banda who at that time, talking to so many people just smiled but seemed not to pay any attention. As I left with the pain that I now have no transport money I said to Lucius Banda as a parting shot;”Tsiku lina ndalama yanga udzandibwezera. Ndipo tsiku lina ndidzakhala maneja wako ine.”

This time Lucius appeared to have heard what I had said but seemed not to be bothered and with a here we go again attitude he sarcastically replied: “OK aise. Yenda bhoo!”And someone who was with Lucius Banda blurted: ” Koma kunjaku kuli anthu fodya madala. Mwamumva akuti tsiku lina adzakhala maneja wanu.” They laughed. I left.

To be honest, to this day, I don’t know why I said what I said to Lucius Banda and didn’t even had a clue of what it entailed at that point of my life to be a musician’s manager.After some years I and Lucius Banda became friends and later brothers. Twelve years later, without putting any effort to it, I became Lucius Banda’s manager. Of course, I was not being paid for it, I was just helping a brother and for the love of everything music.I was happy the prophecy had come to pass.

Well, I did not just become his local manager, I became his international manager.I reminded him about the incident and told him refund me my transport money, which he hasn’t, to this date.And we all laugh about it. Always.

Lucius Banda is very artistic. The way he write and composes his songs is out of this world. His passion for music and the arts in general is quite impressive.He can sing a song from anything. From the Bible to a mere calendar. The man has sang songs on everything and anything. He is gifted.If there is one person who knows Lucius Banda, then I am that one person. I know his strengths and weaknesses. His biggest strength is music and his greatest weakness is music.

In 2004, when Bingu ascended to power on UDF ticket, with the tough shift he had put on the campaign trail, everyone was upbeat that Lucius Banda deserved to be Minister (or deputy) of Youth, Sports and Culture. When he was left out, he was frustrated and disappointed. He didn’t say it but I knew he was hurting.

I told Lucius Banda that he could not make a good minister because he is too blunt and direct. I told him one day he could make a very good advisor to the president on such matters.I joked to him that to be a minister is a hard but unpredictable and undependable job for you can be reshuffled while you are abroad on tour of duty.

Now, almost 15 years later it has come to pass, Lucius Banda has become an advisor to the President of the Republic of Malawi, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera just as I saw it fit some eons ago.I am no prophet but I think I have knack for knowing the obvious.All I can say is Congratulations to Lucius Banda.

I believe the president chose the right man for the job and I doubt not that the country’s music stalwart will deliver. However, I implore Lucius Banda to closely work with many others in the game and in particular, Ben Mankhamba and Waliko Makhala, on all matters arts and culture. These two guys are so passionate about Lucius Banda’s new line of work.

Once again, congratulations M’bele wanga. What a birthday gift. May you live long.You still owe me my transport money, Sir.

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By Arkangel Tembo

Blantyre, August 18, Mana: Government plans to set up Welfare Fund to help artists in the country as one way of recognizing their contribution to the country’s development process after being sidelined for years.

Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture, Michael Usi made the remarks Monday during the funeral ceremony of veteran comedian, Elson Soko, popularly known as Anyoni who was laid to rest at the Henry Henderson Institute (HHI) Cemetery.

Noting that the basic purpose of the fund was to provide financial support to needy artists, he said artists are a valuable part of society.

Usi said many of the artists have rendered enormous services for the promotion of art and helped create a good image of the country, saying, “it was our responsibility to look after the artists in time of need.”

He said the purpose of the welfare fund would be to help the artists and their families.

The Minister pointed out that the Welfare Fund would be set up to provide financial support to the artists who are inactive due to old age, adverse health conditions or otherwise incapacitated due to accident or disease.

“It was a pity that an artist will get sick but getting no support from the nation. These people die like a person who never contributed anything to the country. It is time with the Tonse-led Government that we will start respecting these artists with this welfare fund,” Usi stated.

Artists have welcomed government’s decision, saying artists in the country live on hand-to-mouth.

Eric Mabedi of Kwathu Drama Group, popularly known as ‘Jakobo’  said acting was one of the most difficult professions in the world, noting that artists make people happy and relaxed with their performances as such deserve better.

“This news was long-awaited. How many artists have died poor despite working hard? This is timely and it will help artists a lot especially when they are sick and need medical attention,” he noted.

Mabedi said the initiative would create a breathing space for artists to develop into their full potential.

“This initiative will go a long way towards recognizing the often uncertain and infrequent income artists make, especially in early years and their important contribution to the culture and tradition of the country,” he added.

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