South Africa award winning music duo Blaq Diamond and Malawi’s Dr Namadingo have been billed to perform at the Boudoir By Doll Mabel annual fashion show in Lilongwe.
Boudoir By Doll Mabel founder and entrepreneur Mabel Khonje has confirmed that the event will take place on 28 May, 2021.
According to Khonje, music and fashion are inseparable. “I thought we should spice it up by bringing in some music. Since this is the first event of it’s kind, we also figured bringing the current trending artists both on international and continental level,” she said.
The “Summer Yomuthi” hit makers, Blaq Diamond will be supported by Malawi’s award winning versatile musician Dr Namadingo.
Tickets are currently being sold at BICC, Acres, Puma Area 18 and Maula Filling Stations in Lilongwe and Chitawira Puma Filling Station in Blantyre.
Mabel is a former Malawi beauty queen, former Miss Malawi beauty pageant organizer as well as owner and founder of Doll Mabel fashion brand. Currently, the brand has lipstick and Boudoir by Doll Mabel lingerie line.
Mabel is the first black woman to own and launch a lingerie line in the Netherlands and also the first person to launch a lingerie line in Malawi.
NANKHUMWA: Through Alleluyah Band, Sir Paul Banda has inspired many people; trained and mentored many musician
Iconic Balaka-based musician ‘Sir’ Paul Banda is reportedly critically ill and requires specialist medical attention abroad. But when the Leader of Opposition Kondwani Nankhumwa addressed Parliament on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 and made reference to the matter, government was not amused.
In his response to the State of the Nation Address (SONA) presented on May 3, 2021 in the 3rd Meeting of the 49th Session of Parliament and the 2021/2022 Budget Session, the Leader of Opposition requested parliamentarians to “to contribute funds towards Sir Paul Banda’s medical treatment abroad”.
“On a very special note, let me inform this August House that our own music legend, Sir Paul Banda, has been unwell for some time. Sir Paul Banda has, for decades, played a very significant role in the political, and social and economic development of this through music.
“Through Alleluyah Band, Sir Paul Banda has inspired many people; trained and mentored many musicians, including his young brother ‘Soldier’ Lucius Banda, Billy Kaunda, Charles Msaku, Mlaka Maliro, among others,” he said and suggested that an ad-hoc parliamentary committee comprising MPs Bertha Ndebele, Malume Bokosi, Owen Chomanika, Billy Kaunda and Monica Chayang’anamuno be formed “to manage the fundraising drive and ensure that we raise the funds in the shortest time possible”.
But as soon as Nankhumwa wrapped up his presentation, Minister of Tourism Michael ‘Manganya’ Usi stood on a ‘point-of-order’, arguing that Nankhumwa was wrong to bring the matter into the House, especially considering that government, through his department of culture, was already taking care of Paul Banda’s welfare. The minister ‘reprimanded’ the Leader of Opposition for discussing someone’s illness “in public”, claiming it can cause trauma on the patient and his family.
However, Nankhumwa counter-argued, saying he did not just dream about it but had actually met the patient and discussed his plight at length. “I find nothing wrong in seeking financial support on behalf of a patient who needs specialist medical attention abroad; I just find it very necessary, especially also that I discussed this with him,” he said.
In her ruling on the matter, Speaker Catherine Gotani Hara said she found nothing wrong with Nankhumwa’s request for financial assistance, even if government was offering assistance. In his speech, the Leader of Opposition noted that artists contribute immensely to the development of the country and well-being of society.
“Through their various artistic works, they reshape our country into a better place to live in. It is in this vein that I urge all of us, including government, to support our various artists in whatever way possible in creating a conducive environment for their work,” he said.
He urged Malawians to love one another and to co-exist peacefully regardless of differences in political persuasions, race, tribe and religion
To celebrate Africa Day on Tuesday, 25th May, MultiChoice Group is set to launch M-Net Movies Afro-Cinema, a pop-up movie channel dedicated to showcasing and celebrating contemporary African films.
The Afro-Cinema Channel will be available from Friday, 21 May, to Sunday, 30 May 2021, on Channel 198 to DStv customers on Access to Premium packages across the continent.
The Afro-Cinema Channel is curated to celebrate Africa’s cultural diversity, aptly reflected and captured in the work that is being produced by filmmakers all over the continent.
Through collaboration and turning challenges into possibilities, local film industries across the continent have produced award-winning productions that have launched the careers of many directors, producers, and stars while also taking the “for us, by us” African stories global.
“At its essence, Africa Day is about celebrating African unity and success as well as acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead. The pandemic has hit the film industry quite hard, and African filmmakers were not spared.
This Africa Day, we want to celebrate the talent and resilience of the continent’s film industry with the launch of this festival of African films where our audiences can enjoy Afro-Cinema from the comfort of their own homes,” said Yolisa Phahle, MultiChoice Group CEO of General Entertainment and Connected Video.
Some of the exciting films to look forward to includes;
Sunset in Makoko (Nigeria), which takes us into one of the biggest floating slums in Africa, called Makoko. Located in the Nigerian city, Lagos, Sunset in Makoko presents a place where regardless of despair, the community still strives to live with joy and radiate hope. Allen Onyige, a Nigerian filmmaker and MultiChoice Talent Factory (MFT) Academy alumnus, made the film.
Payback (Zambia), this is a tale of betrayal and love gone wrong. It tells the story of a man who learns that his cousin’s friend is about to marry the girl who jilted him, causing him to pursue the ultimate act of revenge. Leo Dauty Simukoko and Perpetual Mwape star in this Zambian film directed by Wyclif Mwamba. Ensulo (Kenya), which is the product of the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) East Africa Academy Class of 2018. In Ensulo, the king of an imaginary traditional kingdom becomes gravely ill, and his daughter is forced to lead the kingdom. But her ability to rule is put to the test when a water bottling company discovers the kingdom’s sacred water supply. It is directed by Jamal Kishuli, and the cast includes Michelle Tiren, Claude Judah, Jacob Otieno, Raymond Ofula, and Cindy Kahuha.
The Train of Salt and Sugar (Mozambique), this is a film set in Mozambique during a civil war where a single train connecting the country to Malawi sees passengers risking their lives to travel on the train to escape. Licinio Azevedo directed this award-winning drama.
94 Terror (Uganda), this is a Ugandan war drama set during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Keza, a Tutsi and Hutu genocide survivor, tells how she barely survived the massacre and riskily made it out of Rwanda to Uganda. An all-Ugandan cast of Ninsiima Ronah, Joan Agaba, Muyimbwa Phiona, Nalubega Rashida, Shadic Smith, Mugerwa Rajj, and Smith Mateega drives this film directed by Richard Mulindwa.
Joba (Nigeria), follows the life of a Christian couple whose faith is tested. Joba is a story about love, strength and faith. It is directed by filmmaker Biodun Stephen and stars Blossom Chukwujekwu, Enado Odigie, Christine Osifuye, Ronke Ojo, and Chris Iheuwa.
Heritage Africa (Ghana), This is a political drama set in 1955 during the violent run-up to Ghanaian independence. It follows Kwesi Atta Bosomefi, who has embraced English culture and has risen to the position of district commissioner, but he has done so to the detriment of his African heritage and everything that he holds dear. Local and foreign actors such as Kofi Bucknor, David Dontoh, Ian Collier, and Amina Misa star in the classic historical drama. It was directed by Kwaw Ansah, a well-known Ghanaian filmmaker.
Back of the Moon (South Africa), follows the life of a gangster in South Africa who finds something worth living for. Angus Gibson, an Oscar nominee, directs a cast that includes Richard Lukunku, Lemogang Tsipa, S’dumo Mtshali, Thomas Gumede, and singer Moneoa Moshesh.
The AfroCinema Pop-Up Channel will be available via the DStv app to stream. Additionally, the pop-up channel film collection will be available on Catch Up from Friday, 21st May, to Wednesday, 30th June.
Lilongwe, May 26, Mana: One of the country’s big names in Hip-hop gospel artist, Gwamba has said that acts of kindness are supposed to remain exposed in order to be seen and inspire other people particularly the youth to develop the spirit of kindness.
He made these remarks recently in Lilongwe, in an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana) in response to the charity work which he wants to carry out in Lilongwe City on Saturday, May 29, 2021, aimed at supporting street kids and physically challenged people begging in the city’ streets.
The musician has decided to embark on this initiative as one way of fulfilling the word of God.
“As Christians, the gospel of God is not only about preaching like the way we do in the music and Facebook but we need to practice what we preach, hence as a gospel artist, I decided to come up with something that would fulfil the gospel,” Gwamba said.
Asked about the public opinions on the initiative which some say the artist was not supposed to publicize his charity deeds as it would be like showing off, the Singer said that he opted to put his forthcoming charity work programme on public in order to inspire youth in a positive way.
“There was a time I used to drink alcohol and smoke and the youth used to look at that, now that I am a different Gwamba from the one that people knew, I want my new character to impact the youth in a very positive way.
“It is funny that the time when I was a bad example no one had a problem with it and now all over sudden when I posted that I want to give, some people are saying that I am showing off yet when I was posting about alcohol and other bad things no one talked about it.
“Even in the bible, Jesus performed miracles in public in order for public to see and that was not showing off. Acts of kindness deserve to be seen and be on camera, when someone captures stupid things people do not have problem, but when good things have been captured everyone has a problem and I do not understand why,” he said.
Gwamba urged the public to develop the spirit of supporting the needy with the little they have saying that it does not need millions amount of money to assist the underprivileged.
One of his fans, Henry Daudi commended Gwamba for his upcoming charity work saying that the initiative portrays his good spirit.
“The hand that gives is the hand that is blessed, keep it up Mr. Gwamba for your initiative and that is very good spirit and God will bless you abundantly,” he stated.
Malawi’s platinum-selling artist, Onesimus is soaring high with his gender-based violence (GBV) sensitisation song ‘Solomoni’ as it is number 1 on iTunes top 100.
The song, recorded and composed in his native language Chichewa is directed towards men who mistreat their spouses and feel no shame or guilt for beating them which he says is not acceptable nor excusable.
Solomoni is number 1 on iTunes in South Africa, Botswana and it is also been dominating with ‘some nice numbers’ in Swaziland and Zimbabwe.
It has also been dominating Uganda airwaves clinching the number 1 spot in musical programmes.
This makes it the song of the year in the prevention and fight against GBV not just in Malawi but also across the African continent.
Onesimus, the only Malawian Male artist to have won an award at the 6th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA ) under the Inspiration Music category said: “This is not a personal triumph to say, I’m just happy that the message of GBV is being spread and people are embracing it. It is everyone’s victory because the more people get to hear and learn about what GBV is really about, that’s how we can eliminate it.”
In 2020, Onesimus had projected the song to be a hit of 2021and he stands by his word as the song has turned the tables in the music industry.
“Looking at the response of people; how they are loving the song, and telling from how the song has been so well received by the people I would say yes! This song is the song of the year!
Solomoni has broken barriers and is getting heavy rotation in bars, clubs and other avenues which Onesimus has no objections to the latest trends.
“I’m bringing joy to the people, I know my message, and I don’t care where the music is being played,” he said.
Music analyst, Gregory Gondwe said one of the unique thing about Onesimus productions lately is that he sings about real life in a Christian frame.
“It’s an approach that others feel borders on secular music. In the case of Solomoni it’s a unique way of discouraging GBV from a Christian perspective other than from the point of Human Rights and criminality,” Gondwe said.-MBC Online
MultiChoice Nigeria, the organizers of Africa’s biggest reality show, Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), have announced that the BBNaija LockDown Reunion Show will begin Thursday, June 17, 2021.
The BBNaija Reunion Show is done as part of preparations for the commencement of another season of the reality show, and fans will once again get to see their favourite ‘Lockdown geng’ on their DStv and GOtv screens.
As the sixth season gets set to take the center stage later in the year, the Reunion Show promises to be filled with drama as all 20 of the Lockdown housemates meet once again and get the opportunity to clear the air and express their real feelings towards each other. The show will be hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu and will revisit some of the highlights and memorable moments from the Season 5 edition that saw Laycon emerge winner.
The BBNaija Lockdown Reunion Show will premiere Thursday, 17 June and will air Mondays through to Fridays on Africa Magic Urban at 23:00 CAT and Africa Magic Family at 23:30pm CAT, available to customers on DStv Premium, Compact Plus, Compact, Family, Access and GOtv Max and Plus. To not miss a moment of the drama, visit www.dstvafrica.com or www.gotvafrica.com and download MyDStv or MyGOtv Apps from your Google or App store to subscribe or switch your package.
For more information, please visit BBNaija page on the Africa Magic website and follow the Big Brother Naija social media fan pages on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Headline sponsor of Big Brother Naija season 6 is Abeg and associate sponsor is Patricia.
Now approaching its third year, the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Academy is thrilled to announce calls for applications for its sought-after film and TV training programme!
The call is open to all emerging filmmakers with either some industry experience or a relevant post-school qualification in film to apply for this exciting opportunity to hone their television and film production skills.
“The MTF Academy is our commitment to the future of our Industry and gives young Africans the chance to hone their television and film production skills through a world-class training programme.
”After two successful years, we’re proud to announce a new call to entry to and look forward to meeting the next generation of African film makers,” says Yolisa Phahle, MultiChoice Group CEO of General Entertainment & Connected Video.
Launched in May 2018, the MTF Academy has so far given 120 students the chance to harness their expertise in film and TV, moulding them into skilled industry professionals. The Class of 2020 set a precedent as the first cohort of students to work during a pandemic.
As a result, the programme was extended from 12 to 18 months. This additional time allowed the students to graduate with two qualifications as opposed to one.
Despite adapting to the Covid-19 restrictions, the Class of 2020 had other opportunities to shine: they were active participants during the virtual MTF Masterclass sessions and worked on the global Pledge to Pause PSAs for the United Nations Verified campaign.
They also got to make short films in their home countries which launched as part of the ‘Colours of Africa’ series airing on Showmax and M-Net AfroCinema pop-up channel as part of the Africa Month campaign in May.
Like previous years, all 60 students alongside select members of the public will get to participate in the MTF Masterclasses, which are powered by various industry partners including Dolby, CBS Justice and Jasco Broadcast Solutions offering AVID software masterclasses to name a few.
The illustrious New York Film Academy of Visual and Performing Arts (NYFA) continues its commitment as an MTF Masterclasses partner and to award its annual 8 weeks NYFA Scholarship at the Academy in New York to the top performing student from each region.
“The Covid-19 pandemic was undoubtedly a difficult challenge both for all involved in keeping the MTF Academy programme going as well as the students. The unwavering support from stakeholders, partners and students has nevertheless been overwhelming.
” We couldn’t be more excited to have reached our third year as one of the MultiChoice Group’s anchor shared value initiatives directly investing to the next generation of African storytellers,” says Cheryl Uys-Allie, Director of the MultiChoice Talent Factory initiative.
Application Guidelines:
Entries are ONLY open in 13 countries and the markets eligible for entry include:
Lilongwe, June 4, Mana: A Lilongwe-based female producer, Cathreen Star Mlenga, has set for herself a mission to promote women’s rights through production of movies that advocate messages aimed at exposing and addressing challenges affecting women and young girls in the country.
In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA), Mlenga said she decided to embark on the initiative after experiencing challenges which women and young girls face in their daily life.
“As a woman, I know how it feels to be looked down upon and not to be supported, hence I decided to start producing movies which have stories that would inspire fellow women and young girls to fight for their rights,” Mlenga said.
She added that through her mission, she envisions to tell success stories of women to motivate others to start believing in themselves and realise their potential.
“Through my movies, I have the vision to be telling success stories of women in order to fight the stereotypes that come with gender.
“I also want to create and celebrate heroines so as to inspire young women and girls to be strong and confident,” she said.
Currently, the producer is working to premier her new movie titled ‘Sowing Seeds’ on July 3, 2021 at Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe and on July 31, 2021 at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC).
According to Mlenga, the upcoming movie is a story of a young lady who got married to her teenage boyfriend.
“The movie ‘Sowing Seeds’ is a success story of a young lady, Nthanda, who married off to her teenage boyfriend.
“We saw the struggle which the couple went through and how they pulled through to change their misery to a success story,” she explained.
To come up with the movie, Mlenga said she was inspired by the death of her friend at the age of 16 while giving birth and also the works of Senior Chief Kachindamoto of Dedza in ending early marriages in her area.
Through the movie, the 25-year-old producer said she wants to positively influence mindset change and promote social behaviour communication change on early marriages and unwanted pregnancies among the youth.
One of the country’s feminists and founder of Foundation for Girls Leadership, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that supports girls, Memory Banda, said Mlenga’s idea would expose challenges that women and young girls face in the country.
“It is interesting that Cathreen has decided to rewrite stories about women and young girls in moving images. I can see her idea will expose challenges that affect women and girls in our country.
“In addition, the idea will raise an alarm so that relevant authorities like NGOs and government should work on challenges affecting women and young girls by bringing best solutions to the challenges,” Banda said.
Film Association of Malawi (FAMA) President, Ezaius Mkandawire, hailed Mlenga for her passion in film production, saying her initiative would enhance growth of the industry.
“As an association, we are happy with the passion which Cathreen has in film making. We hope her productions will assist to grow the film industry in the country and put it on international map,” Mkandawire said.
Chigo: To have an international platform recognizing the work am doing is a milestone for me
Mzuzu, June 9, Mana: Malawian female gospel artist Chigo Grace has been nominated for an international award called Maranatha Awards in United States of America (USA).
Speaking with Malawi News Agency (Mana) on Wednesday, Chigo Grace said she was grateful to God for being nominated for the international awards 2021.
“To have an international platform recognizing the work I am doing is a milestone for me therefore I am thankful to God,” she said.
Grace said she was more than happy when she received a message that she had been nominated for the Maranatha international awards in America.
She added that she did not apply to participate in the international awards but her songs were recognized by Maranatha Award to be nominated.
“All the songs play on international Television Stations such as Trace gospel and One gospel which I believe the recognition for the nomination,” the Lady Gospel added.
The Worshipper was nominated for three categories; Better is a day was nominated as the best prophetic song, No longer I as the best thanksgiving song and Munoshamisa Mwari as the best adoration worship song.
Grace said that being nominated was a huge encouragement to her and an inspiration to keep her pushing as well as to be consistent in the music industry.
The Blantyre-based musician said the songs have received positive and encouraging feedback from the local and international audience saying she is grateful for the continued support.
The Singer said fellow female artists should not look down upon themselves but rather they should be determine and work towards reaching their goals in music.
In a separate interview with one of her fans, Mercy Banda said the songs are good hence Chigo Grace deserved the nomination.
The Presentation of awards will be done in Baltimore in USA on August 28, 2021 and people can be voting via www.maranathaawards.com and voting will end on July 1, 2021.
Maranatha Awards Global is a USA programme seeking to acknowledge effective kingdom diplomacy globally and was facilitated by Maranatha Global Revival Networks.
The Sand Music Festival will return this year with fireworks after a two year long break, organizers confirmed on Thursday.
Lead consultant for impact event, Mkhwachi Mhango confirmed the development during a press briefing which was held in Blantyre.
Mhango said the preparations for the annual event slated to take place on 1st to 3rd October at Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi are taking shape. He said this year’s event will be unique.
“Preparations are on course and we will announce more other packages in the next two weeks.
These will include the awarding of the journalists and companies such as castle Malawi, national bank of Malawi, Nyasa Music Company among others,” said Mhango
Sand Music Festival draws together tourists, local people, business, youth, community organizations, media and visitors from all over the World on an annual basis to celebrate the Malawi’s’ s richness, diversity, dynamism and heritage.
Nigerian Idol S6 is gradually coming to an end and the top five contestants are ready to battle it out for the top spot. Last night’s show was themed pop versus jazz and the contestants were required to perform a song from each genre.
Over the course of the week, the contestants made a visit to Bigi for a meet and greet, where they performed their version of a Bigi jingle as a team.
They also had the opportunity to meet with the ever-vibrant TV personality, Denrele Edun, who gave them “fabulosity”. He schooled them on how to become a brand ambassador and their meeting ended with each contestant leaving with a package from the Lush Hair brand.
Last night, Faith Jason opened the floor with his rendition of “Someone You Loved” by Louis Capaldi. Comfort took over by performing “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran. Fan favourite, Kingdom, performed “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars. The girl with great charisma, Akunna, took the stage to perform “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus.
To end the first round of songs, Francis Atela closed the stage with “Too Good at Goodbyes” by Sam Smith.
Following the first round of songs, IK asked guest judge, Mr P who his winner was and the well-known singer mentioned Akunna.
For the second round (Jazz), Faith Jason opened the stage with “I’d Rather Go Blind” by Etta James. The Judges were impressed with his second performance. Dj Sose felt his performance was fantastic, but pointed out that he needs to work on projecting his voice. Seyi Shay loved every bit of his performance and she believes that he gives a better show with his guitar. Mr P loved his choice of song and considered his performance great.
Comfort seemed to show her level of growth as she performed “Save the Last Dance” by Michael Bublé. Seyi shay was quite impressed with her growth as she now sings with confidence, which shows that she has evolved since the first day she met her.
Kingdom’s performance left the judges speechless as he performed “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone. The judges were happy with his performance and Seyi Shay reassured him of her confidence in him. She also believes that Kingdom is the strongest vocalist without any shadow of doubt. Kingdom, undoubtedly outdid himself as he successfully turned Mr P and Dj Sose into “prophets”- Dj Sose believes that with his consistency, he would make it to the top 3, while Mr P said that he was going to shine and go places in life, especially in music.
The next contestant, Akunna gave a beautiful rendition of “I Put a Spell on You” by Nina Simone. The judges felt her performance was mind-blowing. Mr P mentioned that he was wowed by her facial expression while performing and he assured her that he would pay any amount to listen to her perform at any concert. Dj Sose believed that she performed greatly for both songs. Obi Asika commented that Nina Simone would be happy with her. He reaffirmed that he loves her consistency. Seyi Shay loves how she connects with all her songs. She strongly believes Akunna is one of the best contestants as she’s never worried about her performances.
The show finally came to an end with Francis Atela’s rendition, “Hello” by Lionel Richie. According to Dj Sose, Francis brought “Las Vegas to Lasgidi”. His performance was incredible, as Seyi Shay commended the versatility of his voice. Mr P loved both performances but believed the second came off as stress-free, more like “I’m winning this competition” kind of confidence. Obi Asika loved the performances as well and was pretty much impressed with his confidence tonight.
With over 7 million votes for the top six (6), unfortunately, it was the end of the road for Emmanuel as he exited the competition Sunday night.
Don’t forget to vote for your favourite contestants as the power to determine who stays and who leaves is solely in the hands of the viewers. You can vote for your favourite contestant via the Africa Magic website, www.africamagic.tv/nigerianidol, and the Africa Magic mobile site by selecting contestants of your choice and entering your number of votes, and click VOTE. Voting via these platforms is limited to 100 votes per user. MyDStv App and MyGOtv App votes are free and votes are allocated based on your subscription packages.
Lilongwe, June 24, Mana: A Lilongwe based Reggae Dancehall Artist, Explorer has released a new song called “Mtima Pansi.’’
Explorer whose real name is Charles Puwa born in a family of four, two boys and two girls started music career in 2018.
He was inspired by a number of artists in the country like Piksy and has been a student at Black Cross Music School in 2017 to 2018, where he was confirmed to be good in composing songs.
Explorer told Malawi News Agency (Mana) in Lilongwe Wednesday that he has released a single song titled ’’Mtima Pansi’’ which was produced by Washington and Finely Mastered at Focus Records.
‘’This song goes to every youth is different communities out there to take time and think wisely when making decisions, life is like a rolling stone once you step on i. It causes many problems.
The song is encouraging my fellow youth to do not copy what others are doing since that life is like an exams where everybody is given a different paper so it is very important for every ghetto youth to focus on his or her paper and should maintain their frame,’ he explained.
The Artist said youth should avoid indulging themselves into bad behaviours and avoid taking risks decisions.
“I am advising my fellow youth to avoid behaviour that can damage their future. My last word to those youth who are still schooling is that Mtima Pansi.’’ he said.
Explorer is set to release a new album next year which will be dedicating to every youth and parents.
Explorer fan, Margret Jere said she can’t wait to listen to the new song.She said she was much interested to get the message which was target the youth.
Lilongwe, June 28, Mana: Umunthu Theatre under the banner of Theatre in Mandala is set to perform live, Sometimes in July,a play based on the fatal 20 July, 2011 demonstrations which happened under the era of late President Bingu wa Mutharika.
Scheduled to take place on July 17 this year at Jacaranda Cultural Centre, the play recounts events of 10 years ago when Malawian citizenry lead by Civil Society Organisations staged national wide protests against the then Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) regime.
After two days of running battles, at least 21 protesters were gunned down by trigger-happy police with Mzuzu City registering a high number of victims than Lilongwe and Blantyre.
Creative Director for Umunthu Theatre, Bright Chayachaya, said the play is aimed at promoting active citizenry by standing for what is good for the nation. He explained that the play was inspired by the need to tell local inspirational stories.
“It is a story of survival and we are trying to keep on record events that build and hold the nation together. We also want to strengthen the story telling culture that is embedded within our culture,” he said.
Chayachaya added that the group had initially planned to take the production to various festivals but the plan was halted by COVID-19.
Originally devised by The Creative Minds, Sometimes in July, adapted by Umunthu Theatre in 2019 and won several awards in 2020 among them the best overall Theatre Play of the Year at the Young Theatre Makers Awards.
The group is a brainchild of Chancellor College Traveling Theatre with a cast of creative likes of Vitumbiko Zgambo, Kellie Chikoko, Jimmerie Jabes, Chifuniro Nyamba, Cassim Mkali, Eunice Liwewe, Natalie Msika and Chimwemwe Sabola.
Malawi’s hip-hop artist, Limbani Kalilani, popularly known as Tay Grin, has been invited to be a keynote speaker at the Africa Intellectual Property Rights & Innovation (AfrIPI) launch event in Uganda next month.
The multi-award-winning musician has been invited by the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) in conjunction with the AfrIPI.
The event, scheduled to be held on August 26 at the Speke Resort Hotel in Kampala, aims to formally announce the start of the new action plan for EU-Africa cooperation on IPR protection, the IPR Protection for Africa and will include institutional speeches on EU-Africa cooperation in the field of intellectual property (IP).
During the launch, AfrIPI’s specific plans and contributions in supporting IPR creation, protection, utilization, administration and enforcement across Africa, in line with international and Europena best practices and in support of the AfCFTA and the AU’s Agenda 2023, will be outlined.
African political leaders, representatives from the EUIPO, DG INTPA, and African Union Commission as well as the Director Generals of OAPI and ARIPO – the two regional IP offices in Africa – and Heads of African IP offices will be in attendance.
“As an internationally acclaimed artist, we would be elated and honoured if you would accept this invitation and grace this occasion with your presence…” reads part of the invitation letter to Tay Grin, signed by Joseph Peprah Yiadom from the Corporate Governance Service, European Union Intellectual Property Office.
Reacting to the invitation, Tay Grin said: “It’s a huge honor for Malawi and myself to be invited. It is very important for our nation to participate in such international events as they intend to develop our entertainment industry and provide an environment where creatives flourish and reap the benefits of their work.
“Intellectual property infringements have caused artists to lose out in a big way and now that Africa and Europe are combining forces to implement the best practices from industries that have well established laws that safeguard intellectual property is a huge milestone and something worth celebrating.”
The Nyau King added: “As I go and give this keynote address I urge fellow creatives to give support and advice were possible so that my adress at this launch speaks for us all. I dream of a time when African and more especially Malawian creatives benefit fully from the hard work they put into their craft. These are indeed exciting times and I look forward to this event.”
ARIPO is an inter-governmental organization that facilitates cooperation among member states in intellectual property matters, with the objective of pooling financial and human resources, and seeking technological advancement for economic, social, technological, scientific and industrial development.
The present members of the organization are Botswana, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Swaziland, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, where its secretariat is based.
SUKALI: The film industry requires passion and patience
Malawian multi-award winning filmmaker and new president of the Film Association of Malawi, Gift Sukali shared his thoughts and views on the future of the film industry in Malawi. Best known for his much talked about film, Fatsani: A Tale of Survival. Sukali has held the Malawian flag high in his endeavors, showcasing high quality production value and championing the arts as a creative.
Sukali is a self-taught filmmaker, who in his early career, first took an interest in graphic design and art, he later taught himself how to edit videos in 2013 through YouTube, all whilst studying toward his Bachelor of Social Science degree at the University at Malawi.
He went on to learn more about film through the Film Association of Malawi, Africa Film Academy with training provided by MultiChoice industry professionals. Through this he began to perfect his film directing and production skills.
Sukali continued to grow his career and portfolio of work through television adverts, short films, and humanitarian documentaries and most notably the completion of his acclaimed film Fatsani: A Story of Survival, among others.
When asked what advice he would give budding filmmakers, Sukali said,” The film industry requires passion and patience. It takes years to master and there is never ending learning, it needs determination, persistence and focus”…”collaborating with other people is the key”.
Mphatso Makamu: Continues to solidify their presence in the Malawian creative space through their independent projects, in addition to their creation of on-air promotional content, currently being flighted across DStv and GOtv
Opportunities like the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) offers gifted fine arts and film post-graduates the opportunity to jumpstart their career through an accredited 12-month immersion programme including both theory and hands-on experience in cinematography, editing, audio production and storytelling.
Sixty deserving young African, talented candidates who want to work and innovate in film and television production get the chance to refine their skills alongside industry greats.
Since the completion of their tenure, MTF 2021 alumni and Malawian filmmakers, Chisomo Livason and Mphatso Makamu continue to solidify their presence in the Malawian creative space through their independent projects, in addition to their creation of on-air promotional content, currently being flighted across DStv and GOtv.
MultiChoice remains committed to providing growth opportunities within the communities in which it operates and essentially enrich the lives of Malawians through shared value initiatives, like MTF.
In order to grant more Malawians the opportunity to sign up, MultiChoice has extended the deadline for submissions for MTF from 30 June 2021 to Friday, 19 July 2021. All those possessing an industry relevant post-graduate qualification are eligible for entry. For more information visit the MultiChoice Talent Factory website at www.multichoicetalentfactory.com
The sixth season of Nigeria’s biggest music reality show, Nigerian Idol, came to an epic end on Sunday the 11th of July, 2021 in Lagos Nigeria with Kingdom Kroseide emerging as the “Nigerian Idol’’ after months of intense musical contest involving over 3000 hopefuls from across the country, and over 16 million votes recorded at the finale.
Kingdom, Francis, Akunna, Comfort, and Faith Jason were the top 5 from the 11 who made it to the live shows from the audition stages. The competition evolved from the final 5 to the last 2 contestants – Kingdom and Francis – who battled it out on Sunday in a keenly contested affair that saw Kingdom emerge the eventual winner.
The finale night also witnessed performances from some of the biggest acts in Nigeria including Mavin’s newest signee, Ayra Starr who performed her song “Away”; award-winning singer Patoranking who performed his new hit “Celebrate Me”. RnB star, Chike joined Francis Atela on stage for a breathtaking duet of the former’s song, “Roju”. While Kingdom and superstar producer Cobhams Asuquo came together for yet another beautiful performance.
Kingdom’s win further emphasizes his musical talent, which he has displayed from the auditions to the live shows, where he constantly wowed the judges with his flawless performances. Kingdom did just enough at the finale to edge out Francis who has equally been a standout contestant all season.
Reacting to his win, a very emotional Kingdom said,‘’My grandma used to say one day you’ll be very great. And then she died. And I almost gave up. But I want to thank the judges for believing in me and my fellow contestants for pushing me.”
Kingdom, a Computer Science and Informatics student at Federal University, Otuoke, and a music teacher, walks away with a recording deal of a six track EP, with music video shoots for three of the songs, and over 50 million Naira worth of prizes, which include a N30 million cash prize and a brand new SUV. Stay connected and never miss your favourite shows, for self-service download the MyDStv and MyGOtv apps available for iOS and Android.
KINGDOM: I want to thank the judges for believing in me and my fellow contestants for pushing me
Enjoy more with even more channels to choose from. Enjoy authentic East African story-telling on Maisha Magic Movies. The channel will go live on Monday the 26 July 2021 at 3pm (CAT)and will be available exclusively to DStv customers on DStv Compact, DStv Compact Plus and DStv Premium packages.
In anticipation of the new offer that addresses new offerings for viewers, Barbara Kambogi, Channel Head for Maisha Magic Movies said, “We continuously study audience behavior and tailor-make our offering to match the needs of the market at hand, hence the launch of Maisha Magic Movies”. The channel is being positioned as a game changer within the target market as well as in an industry where the creation of local movies has proven to be in deficit. Viewers can look forward to exciting African titles in various genres including action, thriller and drama.
“We are working alongside local producers in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda and continuously grooming and mentoring the teams to produce world class content that resonates with the cultural nuances of the market thus making the content not only exciting but relatable to the viewer. This channel is something our audiences can truly be proud of and call their own,” said Kambogi.
Never miss a moment, stay connected by paying for your subscription or upgrade your package through the MyDStv and MyGOtv apps, availabke for download on iOS and Android.
Prophet Shepherd Bushiri’s Spiritual Son McDonald Mlaka Maliro has announced plans to release a music album entitled ‘Risen King.
The veteran Musician- Cum Pastor Mlaka Maliro announced the development on Friday through his official facebook page.
According to the brain behind Dzanja Lalemba, Mlaka Maliro the new album which will be recorded by a live band in Swaziland will tackle social and political issued faced by Malawians.
“ After a long silence in the music circles for almost 8 years due to Gods new assignments, I am happy to inform my fans and followers that I will be releasing a new album RISEN KING soon.
“Seeing what is happening spiritually and politically I have decided to rise up and say something through music, a ministry which people firstly new me with,” posted Mlaka Maliro
Mlaka Maliro, who is now a full time minister at prophet Bushiri’s Enlightened Gathering Church , came into limelight in late 1990s with his debut album Dzanja Lalemba.
Lilongwe based up-coming afro-pop artist Prince One born as Christopher Labu has released a track titled ‘Start Over’ ahead of his Extended Project (EP) slated for September.
In the song which is currently enjoying massive downloads, Prince One has featured Chizmo Njuchi and Chejuma.
In an exclusive interview on Monday, the multi-talented afro-Pop artist Prince One said Start Over track talks about two lover birds who are pleading for reconciliation after a break up.
“The song is talking about two lovers who are reconciling after breaking up,” said Prince One adding that the song has been done in English and Kiswahili in order to reach east Africa audience.
The song which is available for downloads on Malawimusic.com and other platforms has been produced by a famous producers DJ Megi and Hoddie.
Download the song here: https://www.malawi-music.com/P/1571-prince-one/10725-start-over
Good Samaritan Bushiri handing over the stuff to KCH Director Dr Jonathan N’goma
Prophet Shepherd Bushiri has handed over 14 infusion pumps to Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) worth K10.5 million. The Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) church leader also revealed his vision to construct a state-of-art children’s ward in honour of his departed daughter, Israella.
The donation is part of several preparatory activities that the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) church is doing across the world as they drift towards Global ECG Day this coming Sunday.
Global ECG Day is a special when all members come together to celebrate the impact the church has on society.
In his speech, Prophet Bushiri said his vision is to build a ward at the Paediatric Department at KCH, however, he had to intervene swiftly with the donation of infusion pumps after personnel at the hospital made a request.
Dr. Ng’oma commending Prophet Bushiri for the donation
“I have a strong passion for the children. That is why I am building schools. That is why I disburse bursaries. That is why I support youths with business loans. That is support to organisations that promote the welfare of children. That is why I am here today to support the health of our children,” he said.
Bushiri further called on Malawians to develop a spirit of helping their country when challenges emerges.
KCH Director Dr Jonathan N’goma expressed gratitude to Prophet Bushiri whom he called a friend of the people. “Infusion pumps are in short supply, as such, this donation has eased a great problem at our hospital.” he said.
Dr Ng’oma also welcomed Prophet’s Bushiri vision of constructing children’s ward adding that it is always wonderful to see Malawians coming in to help their nation.
Some of the donated itemsSome of the KCH Staff members that graced the event
