2023: Music, arts festivals flourished

The year 2023 saw arts and music festivals flourish. Events got impressive patronage as well as memorable performances albeit with a few challenges.

From September 29 to October 1, music fanatics converged at Sunbird Nkopola Lodge beaches where a three-day music marathon took place.

Patrons enjoyed music performances from local artists such as Dorn Tarz, Lulu, Wendy Harawa, Driemo, Piksy and of curse international headliners Makhadzi and Bootle from South Africa.

Though the event went on smoothly, one could not help it but notice the challenges in limited funds as the corporate did not support it much as compared to previous editions.

In his words, founder of the festival Lucius Band said the challenges in funding limited the festivals activities, but was happy that Malawians supported it and artists gave their energetic performances. He also celebrated the festival’s contribution to the tourism sector.

“We are happy to be contributing towards local tourism in the country. We can comfortably say that all the hotels and resorts along Lake Malawi shores are fully booked all the way from Mangochi to Monkey Bay. We believe local tourism has received a boost,” he said.

Before the Sandfest took place, music lovers in the Northern Region were from September 1 to3 treated to the Northern Region Festival. It took place at Chikale Beach in Nkhata Bay.

The inaugural festival, concentrated on local talent. The artists included The Great Angels Choir, Driemo, Nepman and others.

However some artists who were billed to perform, did not show up.

In a statement, Black Missionaries Band apologised saying they could not perform due to some misunderstandings.

“We apologise to our fans in Nkhata Bay for not making it to the festival. This was due to failure to agree on some terms with festival organisers. Otherwise, we wanted to be part of the fun of this unique inaugural North Beach Music Festival,” reads part of the statement signed by Black Missionaries Band leader Anjiru Fumulani.

Blantyre Arts Festival, which celebrates arts and culture in the city of Blantyre, also excited Malawians. The event took place on October 7 at Kamuzu Stadium Upper Ground with music performances from Gibo Pearson, Tay Grin as well as various cultural and traditional dance troupes.

However, the event clashed with an album launch of dancehall reggae artist Jay Jay Cee who was then forced to postpone his event. 

On the other hand, the Cape Fest made a return to the entertainment and arts calendar from November 24 to 26 with activities taking place across 10 different venues.

“Tourists stopped visiting Cape Maclear due to the pandemic, which also affected our economy. So it is time to bring back tourists through such activities as we know the area is a tourism hub,” said lead organiser Kay De Silva.

Reggae music lovers were not left out as the Reggae Jam Festival was held on October 28 at Grand Business Park in Lilongwe.

The festival featured two Jamaican reggae music icons, Luciano and Everton Blender. It also had a long list of local artist and it has received rave reviews from patrons.

For film lovers, there was plenty to celebrate about as the Film Association of Malawi held its festival on November 24 and 25 with several local feature and short films screened.

The festival, which took place in Lilongwe, also saw outstanding players recognised for their hard work and dedication. 

Tumaini Festival, held for free, was also a highlight on the calendar with splendid performances at Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa.

Running from November 2 to 5, the festival saw both local and international artists as well as dance groups and other arts activities in action.

These were major music festivals. We can only look forward to a more robust 2024 full of such music and arts festivals and so much more.