Versatile artist, Misheck Gabriel has confidently declared 2025 as his breakthrough year, saying he has so many beautiful songs to be released.
Speaking in an interview with Malawi Voice, Gabriel said he has 11 unreleased songs at the moment.
“I just want to tell people who love my music and those who haven’t listened to my music that I have more music to come and this is my breakthrough year,” he explained.
He also quickly revealed that he also has an EP titled “Yake ndi vuto siine”.
Commenting on his music background, he explained, “I started doing music in 2020 because I was surrounded by people who used to do music so they used to take me to recording studios. My music interest has grown since then.”
According to Gabriel, he mainly does Afro and local music genres because he is proud to be an African more especially from Malawi.
“I love Malawi so much,” he emphasized. Gabriel grew up listening to Thomas Chibade and he confidently said that Chibade is his idol and influencer.
Confirming where he hails from, he said, “I am from Chiwamba right there close to bridge where there are so many hyenas and people can find me on social media. My user name is MISHECK GABRIEL.”
Four reggae and dancehall stars, Don Tarz, Blasto, Matumbi and Born Afrikan, are set to perform in Jamaica next month.
Plus the full band, the 16-member team is expected to leave on February 9 for the ‘reggae-land’ where they will spend a total of 10 days.
The four are traveling courtesy of Labour Minister Vitumbiko Mumba, who is said to have secured space for artists while on holiday in Jamaica.
Born Afrikan, has, in recent years been at the center of performances of Jamaican artists in the country.
The trip is a dream come true for Matumbi, who, about two decades ago was billed to travel and perform in Jamaica alongside Evison Matafale, Limbani Banda, San B and others, but the trip never materialised.
The multi-award winning Gospel artist Steve Wazisomo Muliya has hinted the need for people to depend on God despite sailing through different challenges.
Muliya says finger pointing at authorities will never offer any solution to prevailing problems.
Wazisomo’s sentiments is in relation to the message that is contained in his newly released video and audio songs entitled ‘Mwatikhalira Wabwino Mulungu’.
In the song, Muliya who is winner of MBC’s entertainer of the year gospel artist is encouraging people to put their trust in God despite socio-economic challenges.
He says the existing challenges the country is passing through were caused by natural calamities and not man made creation.
So far ‘Mwatikhalira Wabwino’ truck has already attracted over 1-thousand viewership with over 500 positive comments of which several of them are commending Wazisomo for composing a praise and worship song.
Anthu otsatira nyimbo zaumzimu, makamaka omutsatira Stevie Wazisomo Muliya, ayamikira katswiriyu pa nyimbo yomwe watulutsa lero ya “Mwatikhalira wabwino”.
Muzaka ziwili zapitazi anthu akhala akuzuzula katswiri yu, ponena kuti Amapiano chi chamba cha gospel.
Malingana ndi zomwe anthu alemba mmatsamba a ambiri Nchezo( Facebook), pomwe nyimboyi waonetsedwa koyamba, anthu ochuluka awonetsa kukhutira kuti Wazisomo watsata njira yabwino ya maimbidwe kusiyana ndi momwe amachitira mmbuyomu poyimba chamba cha Amapiano.
“Muliya koma uyuyu, osati wa Amapiano uja”, watero otsatira wina yemwe dzina lake ndi Mike AlibeWawo.
“Mwatikhalira Wabwino” ndi nyimbo yomwe Stevie Wazisomo( Mr Grace) watulitsa ndipo ili mu chamba Cha Praise and Worship, yomwe yajambulidwa ndi OBK ndipo video yake yajambulidwa ndi VJ ken
Siyathandisa Theatre Work welcomed at KIA by popular film actor ‘Phwedo’ Tumpe Mtaya and NASFEST team
By Edwin Mauluka
A group of young artists from South Africa, Siyathandisa Theatre Work has arrived in the country ahead of their performance at the NASFEST International Youth Cultural Festival 2025 slated for Friday, February 7 to Sunday, February 9, 2025 at Madsoc Theatre in Lilongwe.
The festival, provides a vibrant platform for young performers to showcase their theatrical and artistic talents, encourage creative expression and cultural exchange, bringing together youths and students from different communities and secondary schools across Malawi and Southern Africa.
Upon arrival at Kamuzu International Airport, Aaron Tywabi, leader of Siyathandisa Theatre Work expressed their excitement to be in Malawi and promised to showcase a unique production.
“We are fully prepared and we are bringing a nice piece performed only once on 29th June 2024 in South Africa. So, this is going to be a second time to be perform this production called Mirrors, written and directed by Aaron” he said
The group from the rainbow nation, was welcomed by the Malawi’s celebrated film actor, Phwedo whose real name is Tumpe Mtaya and Likuni Boys Secondary School theatre group popularly known as MALIBOSS Theatre.
Two girls from Siyathandisa Theatre Work joined a welcome dance performed by MALIBOSS Theatre
Linga Creatives Director who is the Artists Coordinator and Liaison Officer for the NASFEST, Shaffiq Kalumo said the arrival of the group from South Africa is an exciting and a milestone as the event has managed to include and bring young people from South Africa to perform at the event.
‘’Some people were worried and not sure if indeed NASFEST would bring people from South Africa to perform at this years event, but now they can see for themselves that they are right here in Malawi and this means the festival has begun because beginning tomorrow we are going to start tours for schools to allow students in arts to interact with these artists as we wait for actual performances on Friday up to Sunday at Madsoc Theatre.’’ Explained Kalumo
He shared that there are other groups expected to arrive from neighboring countries like Zambia who are bringing different types of perfomances including theatrical poetry, drama, dance among others.
‘’This edition of NASFEST, people should expect something different and better. We therefore encourage people to come and see what NASFEST International Youth Cultural Festival for this year will look like.’’ promised Kalumo
The NASFEST International Youth Cultural Festival is annual flagship event run by Light of Youth Creative Organization (LYCO) in order to promote artistic growth, collaboration, and a love for the performing arts among schools and youth groups, while also fostering community, skill development, and an appreciation for dramatic arts.
This 17th edition of the festival will include a variety of activities, such as training workshops, cultural interface meetings, visual arts exhibitions, visual arts, cultural and contemporary dances, storytelling, and competitions in drama, music, poetry, film screening, and literature. It will culminate into an awards presentation ceremony, recognizing outstanding performances and achievements.
In the context of Malawi and Southern Africa, the festival highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern artistic expressions. Also, the presence of inspirational role models, partner organizations, and high-profile officials from various sectors, including the government, adds prestige to the event and encourages young people to appreciate their artistic and cultural talents.
The NASFEST International Youth Cultural Festival 2025 expected to begin this Friday in Lilongwe has been described as a great platform for upcoming young creatives to connect with industry experts and learn new skills from international artists.
Malawi’s celebrated film actor, Tumpe Mtaya popularly known as Phwedo made the remarks on the sidelines of the arrival of the South Africa and Zambian groups a head of their performance at the festival slated for Friday, February 7 to Sunday, February 9, 2025 at Madsoc Theatre in Lilongwe.
Phwedo in black attire pose with creatives from South Africa and NASFEST Team members
‘’Having international visitors from South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia, makes this festival an important platform for young people in Malawi especially those starting out career in stage acting and physical theatre to learn new skills and exchange knowledge. Malawian young people will be able to watch and learn how friends in developed art industries compose their poems, stage acting, physical theatre, as you know Malawi is a bit behind in this area. So, combining their skills with what they will learn, they can become competitive at international level.’’ Tumpe explained, adding that the event could as well lead to future and exchange
Sharing on positive developments in Malawi creative sector, Tumpe expressed that the local industry is growing and artisits are beginning to earn good income out of their work through paid gigs and loyalties.
He added earnings from Blank Media Levy, growth of Film Association of Malawi (FAMA), availability of project grants and the recent passing of NAHEC Bill gives hope to the local creatives.
‘’So, this is the time for Malawian youths to be serious with their artisitic skills and take part in the sector to enjoy the benefits. But, taking art seriously, also goes with learning from the best. This is why I am encouraging all local creatives to come to this festival so that we can learn from international creatives so that Malawian art can also do much better on the international scene.’’ emphasised Tumpe
He continued ‘’It is through local festival like this, upcoming artists learn new skills and opportunities to collaborate with those who can help to grow their skills. So, if you are an actor, aspiring to be an actor please buy the ticket because these are places where you get connections with directors, producers and others in the industry.’’
Linga Creatives Director who is the Artists Coordinator and Liaison Officer for the NASFEST, Shafiq Kalumo said in addition to watching international productions, people should expect even more from the fresh talent Malawi has.
‘’Some of the performances are from local secondary school students and productions from young people who are doing amazing things but have limited exposure. Through the festival we are fostering artistic growth and skills development among young participants. By providing a platform for secondary school students and youth groups to showcase their talents in drama, music, dance, poetry, film, and literature, NASFEST encourages creativity and enhances participants’ confidence but also improve their teamwork and communication skills, essential for future personal and professional endeavors.’’ Said Kalumo
Standard ticket to the festival is going at K5,000 while VIP ticket is pegged at K10,000 and Ticket for the Double is going at K15,000.
Mzinda Lifestyle fashion show will on 21st December host model casting Auditions in Lilongwe and Blantyre.
The models that will be selected from the casting will join other international models from over 11 countries to perform at Mzinda Lifestyle fashion show on 1 June 2025.
Speaking in an interview with Malawi Voice, Mzinda Lifestyle fashion show project manager Chris Kunda Dakar said the registration for models is still in progress and the main event will take place on 1 June 2025 at BICC Amphitheater.
“Malawi has been hosting different fashion shows before that aims at promoting our local designers and fashion models to a local market. These fashion shows played a significant role in shaping the country’s fashion industry. In as much as these runway shows have promoted our local fashion craft, as a country haven’t yet reached where we were supposed to be in terms of applicating fashion and craft and in addition to that, we haven’t yet used our fashion craft as a tool for boosting the country’s tourism sector and contribute to the country’s GDP.
“It is against this background that Mzinda Lifestyle fashion show was instability to define a true cosmopolitan lifestyle of Morden Africa. The event resonates around the passion for culture, fashion, music, tourism and contemporary arts. It is an event where both local and international fashion enthusiasts, celebrities, travelers and tourism investors converge to define African identity,” Dakar explained.
According to Daka, the 2024 event attracted participants from different African and European countries like USA, Belgium, England, Nigeria, Zambia, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Rwanda, and DRC among many others.
In her remarks, Karen Mphatso Banyan who is going to be hosting this year’s event, said she is ready for the show.
“Mzinda lifestyle is about glamour and bringing people together. It is about showing our uniqueness in fashion. What’s even better is that the event is themed making it promoting uniformity. Most fashion events are usually about promoting the designers but Mzinda Lifestyle will not only highlight the magnificent designers we have but the beauty in diversity and the creativity,” Banyan concluded.
Kamtukule – applauded NASFEST organisers for the work they are doing
By Edwin Mauluka
Malawi government has reiterated commitment to support young creatives in the country as one way of fulfilling the vision of creating wealth for the people.
Minister of Tourism, Vera Kamtukule made the remarks on Friday evening when officially opening the NASFEST International Youth Cultural Festival 2025 at Madsoc Theatre in Lilongwe.
Kamtukule said the assenting of National Arts and Heritage Council (NAHEC) Act which most artists were much looking forward to, demonstrates government commitment to promoting arts and culture.
‘’I know that you are also looking forward to the establishment of Heritage Council and that is going to be done because the president of this country, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, knows the importance of art. As his legacy, he wants to create jobs, create wealth for his people but also to ensure that his people are food secure. And he knows that through arts and culture, we can create many jobs because we are a country with over 70 percent of young people most of whom are below the age of 35.’’ She said
Speaking about the NASFET International Youth Cultural Festival, Kamtukule applauded organisers for the work they are doing particularly of raising a generation that is going to have an identity.
Part of Siyasindisa Theatre Work from South Africa during the official opening of the festival
‘’I like what I have seen so far.’’ She said then commended the youthful local and international participants for their willingness to take up issues of culture.
Commenting on the mission of NASFEST on preservation and promotion of culture and arts, as well as to inspire cultural exchange and cultural inclusion, the minister emphasised that young people should focus on promoting and preserving Africa culture and arts
‘’Heritage or culture is our place of power as Africans and as Malawians. That is why am excited that young people are willing to take this up because we have relegated the role of culture as something that is primitive or for people who don’t have something to do. So, if we have young people taking up careers as artists and people that want to promote culture, as government we should be celebrating. I am excited today that you could come up with this, so don’t worry about where we are.’’ she said
A dance perfomance by a group of young people from Malawi
She further encouraged NASFEST organisers to keep pushing hard to make the event even bigger and appealed to artists to use their innovative and artistic prowess in their resource mobilisation drive in order to bring more sponsors to their events.
‘’I believe in young people, and I believe in your power to come up with something that is concrete and authentic and collectively our combined intelligence from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, we cannot fail to come up with something.’’ She added while encouraging participants at the event to tap into each other’s strategies and suit to their context.
NASFEST is organised by the Light of Youth Creative Organisation (LYCO) since 2009.
LYCO Director, James Kitchen noted that funding remains the major obstacle facing organisations working with young creatives in culture and arts.
Kitchen – funding remains the major obstacle
However, he appreciated the Copyright Society of Malawi (CoSoMa) for supporting LYCO to organise the event this year.
‘’CoSoMa through Copyright Fund, supported us with funds for training workshops across the country whereby we trained young people close to 1,500 and we had regional festivals and here we are. We are also working with partners such as UNESCO, Department of Arts and the National Library.’’ Added Kitchen
He then asked the Ministry of Tourism to support LYCO in this annual event to help the organisation sustain fruits of cultural exchange facilitated through NASFEST.
A Physical theatre perfomance during the opening of the festival
‘’Young creatives from different countries come together and share knowledge in arts and cultural skills, so we want to work together with the ministry and support us during these festivals.’’ Added Kitchen
The festival began on Friday, February 7 and is expected to conclude on Sunday, February 9, 2025 at Madsoc Theatre in Lilongwe. The event has attracted participants from South Africa, Zambia and Malawi.
Standard ticket to the festival is going at K5,000 while VIP ticket is pegged at K10,000 and Ticket for the Double is going at K15,000.
South Africa based Malawian gospel artist Leonard Namate, is set to launch his first album “Ndikudzakutsatani Mbuye” on 6 April, 2025 in Germiston.
The launch which is expected to feature various supporting performances will be held at Germiston Assembly of God in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Namate said the 10-track album recorded in Joburg has message for salvation, apart from giving praise and thanks to God for his grace, saying worship is so much than a song.
“My plans are to continue to spread the word of God by releasing more albums. I will not stop until God says so. As long as God is with me, I am unstoppable.”
Meanwhile, Namate the Kempton Park resident has challenged his fellow Malawian artist based in the rainbow nation to preach messages of unity through their songs.
He said as people living in diaspora music is a powerful tool that artists could use to bring about oneness among the Malawian community.
‘‘I believe music is an influential tool in society. It is used to disseminate different kinds of messages that shape behaviour.
“As artists, we can send positive messages. We can be initiators of that positive change that is desired in society,’’ he notes.
Some of the supporting artists include; Tendai Mphonde Banda, Lameck Kamwendo, Shadie Mbeta, Amidu M’madi, Joyce N’goma, Temwwani Lupeska, Abel Awali, Maria Maseko, Robinson Kabalauza, the Melody 3 and many more.
Producers of the Apongozi TV Series, HD Plus Creations have honoured the legendary Zodiak Broadcasting Station (ZBS) broadcaster and actress late Maria Chidzanja-Nkhoma for her incredible contributions towards the production of the movie.
Chidzanja-Nkhoma who was featured on Apongozi TV Series before her death on January 9 2021, played the role of Apongozi in the movie series.
Speaking on the sidelines of the official release of the all the 10-series of the Apongozi TV Series for online streaming on Friday, one of the directors of the movie Gift ‘Sukez; Sukali described Chidzanja-Nkhoma as one of the undisputable gifted actresses who added a yummy spice to Apongozi Series.
“Apongozi TV series is a drama-filled movie whose quality, suspense and twists can never be appreciated without mentioning Maria. She was a gen who added a luscious part to the movie. We will forever miss her incredible talent at HD Plus Creations,” said Sukez.
According to him, Chidzanja-Nkhoma was in the special category on older talented actors who were rare to find in the country.
“Most movie productions which feature older cast fail to deliver because it’s not easy to find energetic and talented older cast. Chidzanja-Nkhoma was one of its kind and irreplaceable,” said Sukez.
The first series of Apongozi were premiered on Zodiak Television in December 2022 and then airing on Zodiak’s Facebook page and HD Plus Creations’ YouTube channel.
HD Plus Creation has released all the 10 series of the action-packed drama that revolve around a matrilineal (chikamwini) family which lives with its five daughters and their sons-in-law. The action of the drama rises when one of the sons in-law (Edwin Chombo) sends offensive pictures and videos of himself to his mother in-law (Apongozi) erroneously.
Renowned Malawian hip-hop artist Tay Grin has hit the ground running as the country’s newly appointed Tourism Ambassador.
In his first assignment, Tay Grin, also known as the Nyau King, met with the Commissioner of Tourism in Zanzibar, Arif Abbas Manji, to discuss strengthening tourism ties between Malawi and Zanzibar.
Key discussions focused on co-joint advertising, connecting operators, showcasing products, and enhancing infrastructure to promote tourism in both countries.
Grin born Limbani Kalilani emphasized the importance of major collaborations, big influencers, superstar events, and global platforms to amplify Malawi’s tourist destinations
Grin’s appointment as Tourism Ambassador is a strategic move to boost Malawi’s tourism sector, a key contributor to the country’s economy.
With his influence and passion for Malawian culture, he is expected to lead various promotional campaigns, including international tourism marketing, digital and social media campaigns, cultural promotion initiatives and collaborations with local tourism operators.
As a cultural icon, Grin has been promoting Malawian culture through his music for over two decades.
He is known for incorporating traditional Malawian elements, such as Nyau music and dance, into his hip-hop beats.
His new role will enable him to continue promoting Malawian culture and heritage, using his music and influence to attract tourists and showcase the country’s unique offerings.
Tay Grin’s vision for Malawi’s tourism industry includes promoting cultural exchange, developing sustainable tourism, showcasing the country’s natural beauty, empowering local communities, and fostering international partnerships.
Dan Lufani, a musician known for his songs praising the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and its leader Lazarus Chakwera, has been arrested in Lilongwe.
Lufani was taken into custody for allegedly assaulting water board officials who were on a mission to disconnect water services at his residence in Lilongwe.
He is expected to spend the night in a police cell at Lilongwe Police Station.
Pastor and musician Mlaka Maliro has gone deeper into the ranks of Joseph Nkasa and Dan Lu by producing and all praise and worship song for President Chakwera titled ‘tidzamuvotera’
And in an apparent desperate bid to make the song trendy on social media, Maliro is offering slightly over K2million to tik-tokers to into a ‘challenge’.
“Let the Challenge Begin. Ipatseni moto ku tiktok pali kuwina ndalama za Nkhani nkhani,” posted Mlaka Maliro.
The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) is parting ways with millions of kwachas to buy off some of the country’s established musicians for this year’s decisive election.
A new movie titled The Gunless Soldier, set to premiere on Friday 28 March, 2025 at Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe continue to gather momentum as producers of the film shares massive support and enthusiasm from fans who can’t wait to watch the film.
A film by award winning filmmaker and actress, Joyce Mhango Chavula, is starred by renowned Malawian film actors including Ashukile Mwakisulu, Edwin Chonde, Kelvin Ngoma, Lillian Masangano, and Mphatso Chikuni.
‘’We are very grateful to individuals who are coming to support this premiere in Lilongwe at Golden Peacock Hotel. Some are buying tickets in bulk just to support the premiere.’’ Said Joyce Mhango Chavula in an interview with Malawi Voice
Joyce Mhango Chavula (C) reviewing the script with some of the crew members during the film shoot
She has since assured film lovers that the preparations for the red-carpet event are set and that tickets are selling at Golden Peacock Hotel. Standard tickets are going at K20,000, VIP at K50,000 and VVIP at K100,000.
‘’We will have a performance by Malita and the event will be hosted by Blessed Citizen.’’ She disclosed
Joyce has since encouraged companies and individuals to partner and sponsor the premiere as the support will help promote their brand and the film beyond borders.
‘’By sponsoring this premiere and partnering with us, you get exclusive brand visibility not just at the premiere but in all screenings for the film locally and beyond borders because we envisage the film will be screened globally at various film festivals. And your support goes a long way in promoting the local film industry.’’ She emphasised
Inspired by the recurring events, The Gunless Soldier is about a young girl who embarks on unknown path with hope to find her mother’s killer and revenge.
The premiere is expected to start at 7pm and that the film’s trailer has already attracted interest from fans as the promo continue to gain more viewership.
In the heat of misfortunes, women have repeatedly demonstrated that resilience is their strongest asset. For women in business, the journey to success is often filled with challenges, some rooted in personal loss while others stem from a desire to achieve more and become more.
It is not surprising that their courage transforms into unstoppable momentum when these women find the right support.
As we celebrate International Women’s month, we turn the spotlight on a group of remarkable women who have challenged the odds, built thriving businesses, and contributed to the economic growth of their families and communities with support from National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc’s ‘Amai Angathe’ product offering.
Layka Thakwalakwa from Nchalo, an ambitious woman in the agri-business sector, faced a life-altering challenge when Cyclone Freddy hit in 2022, wiping out much of her livestock and leaving her in despair. Her business, which had been thriving, was suddenly at risk of collapsing.
Sharing her story, Thakwalakwa complained that she saw her dreams being shattered after the crisis, until the Bank came to her rescue.
“I felt like my world was crumbling around me as I had invested so much, and with the Cyclone, everything was gone. I didn’t know how to rebuild myself. Instead of giving up, I started to look for ways in which l could grow my business, that’s when l reached out to NBM.”
“In 2023, l applied for a loan of K4 million which helped me build again my business. After l had paid off the loan, I upgraded to another K7 million loan which has boosted my business. Now, l supply my goods to several supermarkets across the Southern Region,” she shares.
Presently, Thakwalakwa has managed to purchase machinery that processes honey and rice, and employs 12 people in her growing business.
For another Nchalo-based powerhouse Grace Mlanga, her journey to success began in the online clothing business before she found her passion in agriculture.
Pivoting from fashion to farming, Grace now supplies maize, beans, and other legumes to secondary schools, a business that is growing rapidly.
“The clothing business was operating online, and it was moving slow, hence I needed more. When I discovered the potential in agriculture, I knew I had to make the switch. However, I needed capital to start and that’s when I approached NBM plc and got a loan of K2 million in 2023,” says Mlanga.
With the loan she accessed, she switched into a rapidly growing market.
“Unlike in the early days, when I struggled due to limited capital and low income, I can now meet the demands of my customers,” she shares.
She says the loan has transformed her business, allowing her to supply healthy and nutritious produce to schools, making her feed the future generation while making profits at the same time.
“I never thought I would be here today, I am proud of what I have built, and none of this would have been possible without the Bank’s support. It has been a game-changer for me,” reveals Grace.
In Nchalo again, is Grace Kalidozo, whose entrepreneurial journey began in the electronics sector.
However, the nature of the electronics business is slow moving, so while still operating that business, she wanted a business with more and faster returns.
She too benefited from the NBM plc’s ‘Amai Angathe’ loan, which provided the platform she needed to expand her business and start selling maize and maize flour at Nchalo Market.
“The loan from the bank allowed me to add another business to my operating business model and start selling maize and maize flour at Nchalo market,” she informs.
After her first loan of K2 million, Kalidozo’s business took off, and in the same year she upgraded to K5 million loan. By 2024, she was granted another K7 million, which enabled her to scale up her maize production and distribution.
“With the additional loans, I was able to expand my stock and reach a larger customer base. I am now able to serve the entire Nchalo market, and I have a steady income. It feels like my business is finally on the right path,” Kalidozo explains, beaming with pride.
The bank’s commitment goes beyond supporting women in agri-business, it also empowers female entrepreneurs across diverse industries.
In Blantyre’s Chilobwe township, you will meet Gloria Unyolo, a prime example of this expanded vision.
Unyolo, who began her journey in the second-hand clothing business, is now the founder and director of Gracious Private Academy.
Like many ambitious entrepreneurs, she has always dreamed big and aspired to own a private school.
After her business began to grow, she started to face challenges in her operations for the academy, including the need for better infrastructure, more staff members, and additional learning materials to accommodate the increasing number of students.
These growing demands prompted her to seek further financial support, which she found through the ‘Amai Angathe’ loan, allowing her to expand and enhance the academy’s facilities.
“I initially received a loan of K5 million, which I was able to repay quickly. This success enabled me to apply for a second loan of K7 million.”
“With the loan I have managed to add classroom blocks. Before, I used to borrow money from friends, which l was supposed to pay back within 30 days, but now I can get a loan and pay little by little while my projects are progressing,” she explains.
NBM Plc Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager for NBM Plc, Akossa Hiwa, highlights the Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting women in business through such products.
“We believe that empowering women is the key to fostering sustainable growth and development. The ‘Amai Angathe’ loan product offering was created to provide women with the financial support they need to realize their full potential. This is perfectly aligned to this year’s International Women’s Day theme of ‘Accelerating-Action’.”
“Our focus is on creating opportunities for women to succeed in business, and we are happy with the impact that this service has had on the lives of entrepreneurs. These women are not just building businesses; they are also creating jobs and driving economic growth,” she explains.
A short film titled Dzuwa written by a Malawian actor and director, Shafiq Kalumo was among the top 10 films that debuted at the just ended prestigious 9th Eastern Cape Film Festival on March 21 to 23, 2025 in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
The film was screened alongside other works by independent filmmakers, celebrating the talent and resilience of the region’s cinematic storytellers.
Filmed in late 2023, Dzuwa was part of the #ECSKILLS10 short film project spearheaded by the Eastern Cape Film Festival. The initiative supported by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) of South Africa as well as Eastern Cape Development Corporation, provided hands-on training to emerging filmmakers and empowered them with the resources to bring their stories to life on screen.
Out of over 20 participants who undertook the program, Shafiq’s script was emerged as one of the top 10, earning its place among the best.
The film’s lead roles are portrayed by Sithembiso Prince and Lulama Masimini. It is a tale of sacrifice and morality which evokes a gripping question of what to do if forced to choose between your morals and a loved one’s survival.
Kalumo – The journey to get here has been incredible – Photo Credit: Edwin Mauluka
It is a heartfelt story about a single father trying to secure life-saving medication for his ailing daughter but must make a heart-wrenching decision that goes against his deepest values.
‘’This narrative, inspired by real events’’ shared Kalumo the founder of Linga Creatives, and added ‘’it sheds light on the moral dilemmas many face in desperate circumstances. It also starkly reveals how the most vulnerable in society are often exploited for others’ personal gain.’’
According to Kalumo, the premiere at the prestigious event demonstrates quality work in the film and propels him to do more in future projects.
‘’For me, it’s not just about the premiere itself. The journey to get here has been incredible—receiving training in screenwriting and film production, being selected as one of the top 10 participants, and receiving positive feedback from both my peers and the judges along the way. These milestones are already worth celebrating. However, this premiere signifies something even deeper: if I can achieve this in a foreign land, then truly, nothing is impossible.’’ Explained Kalumo
In Malawi, Kalumo has invested efforts in nurturing talent in theatre and arts among young people through his Linga Creatives.
Last year he premiered his play Nzika (The Citizen); A tale of a migrant at Madsoc Theatre in Lilongwe and he featured renowned actor, Edwin Chonde. The play was later taken to Jacaranda Cultural Center in Blantyre and at the Lake of Stars hosted at Fish Eagle Bay Lodge in Nkhotakota.
Nzika is a recount of a journey by a Malawian national who left family in search of a better life in South Africa but ended up in a path marked by struggle, resilience, and the harsh realities of xenophobia. Fans watched a cutting edge production that explores societal issues like immigration, xenophobia, corruption, and social injustice using symbolic elements of folklore songs and physical movements.
Sharing future plans Kalumo said ‘’I have written several film concepts and completed scripts for short films, and I want to bring those to life. Right now, my focus is on finding the right balance and timing, as I’m still in the process of settling in Malawi. In the meantime, my energy is dedicated to theatre and the development of arts within the community.’’
Blantyre is to be set on Amapiano fire this Saturday by two stars of the beat, Zeze and Joe Icon, courtesy of BeerLand.
Zeze
The setting is Scallas Cafe.
Joe Icon will be performing in Blantyre for the first time.
Joe Icon and Zeze are enjoying the best moments of their time boosted by their current hit songs Ndafika and Go go go, respectively.
Joe Icon
Beerland Director, Kennedy Maluwa said everything is ready for the event and also emphasized that there will be loads of other activities for kids in the afternoon.
Some of the activities include field fued, food tasting, brain teasers, red cup games, card and board games.
Joy Junction has since encouraged parents to bring their kids during the day saying the environment will be child friendly.
The Southern Region Press Club (SRPC) has teamed up with renowned reggae band Black Missionaries and Club 247 to host a fundraising concert on April 20, 2025.
The event aims to raise funds for the development of SRPC’s cooperative farm in Whayo Village, Traditional Authority Kapeni, Blantyre.
According to SRPC President Ronald Amos, the cooperative farm is part of a broader initiative to promote financial independence among journalists in the region.
“We are campaigning to transform the financial lives of our members by promoting an investment-driven spirit, ultimately achieving an independent media in the country,” he said.
The concert will feature the debut of four new tracks from Black Missionaries’ upcoming album, Kuyimba 13, marking their return after a five-year hiatus from releasing new music.
Club 247 Director McDonald Soko expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the strong ties between the entertainment sector and the media.
The fundraising show will take place at Club 247, near Kameza Roundabout in Blantyre, on April 20, 2025.
The event promises to be an unforgettable experience, with great music, good company, and a chance to support a worthy cause.
The Southern Region Press Club (SRPC) was established with a vision to foster solidarity and collaboration among media practitioners.
Rooted in a profound understanding that economic empowerment is the cornerstone of journalists’ independence, SRPC aims to unify the force for the journalist community in the southern and eastern parts of Malawi.
