This and That

What’s in a name?

Names are what we are and what we expect. They carry with them intelligence, history, emotions, love or hate.

Think of these; Kamuzu Highway, Chidzanja Road or Pamfera Nduna in Mwanza. What about Kwacha Roundabout?

You see or hear a name and you begin to align your thoughts in some way.

Then what do you make of the French Cultural Centre (FCC) in Blantyre still being called by that name almost a year after the French sold it to government?

Get me right; this is not a fight.

In the first place, the French must be commended for erecting such a beautiful place where generations of art have been born and bred.

Secondly, they deserve our respect for not demolishing it on their way out or selling it to some big time hatchery in town.

What could have stopped them from selling it to the many megarich churches sprouting like mushrooms?

But the point still remains that we need to move with changing times. The centre needs a new name. 

This is an opportunity to honour our legends. We can name it after the figures that made the venue their second home.

Think of Du Chisiza Junior or Gertrude Kamkwatira.

What about influential figures in music such as Paul Banda or Ndiche Mwalale?

Any harm if we christen it Kay Chiromo Arts Centre or Charles Severe Theatre?

How sweet would ‘Charles Gwengwe Cultural Centre’ sound?

We are spoilt for choice. What are we waiting for?

I see the place rebranded and themed after our heritage.

It could be named after our beautiful hills, rivers, dances or art tales from which our artists draw their inspiration.

And now that we have a couple of big time shows at the venue in due course, isn’t this the best time to rename and rebrand?

Think with me people, what could be the best of names? Your ideas are so welcome.

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