Jamaican reggae-dancehall artist Busy Signal has over the years established close ties with Malawi having twice performed in the country.
The Dreams of Brighter Days hit-maker made his first bow in 2016 when he headlined the Sand Music Festival at Sunbird Livingstonia Beach in Salima before he returned to the event in a similar headliner role held at Kambiri Lodge also in Salima in 2022.
Thirteen-years later, the global artist is set for his third visit to Malawi from August 12 to 15, this time around, on a charity mission under the partnership of his Busy Global Initiative and Malawian gospel musician Wendy Harawa’s Wendy Harawa Foundation.
In a joint announcement, the organisers said the Jamaican’s mission to Malawi will include interventions in provision of school supplies, feeding and networking with youths.
“Join us as we welcome Busy Signal home. Tag your squad and partner with us so that we can have the best corporate social responsibility impact ever. Help us in welcoming him as he gives back to the Malawi community,” reads the announcement in part.
In an interview, Harawa, who is part of Busy Signal’s Africa management team, said she took advantage of her position to partner with the Jamaican, who is on a global charity mission, to have the fellow artist undertake some of his assignments in Malawi.
“Busy Signal coming here is proof that the world is watching us. He is not coming for a concert. He is coming for our people, our youth, our schools and for that needy child. That is a reminder to every Malawian child that they matter enough for global icons to fly in and stand with them,” she said.
Harawa said such interventions should give them hope that no matter the situation they are in now, there is still hope that they can become whatever they want.
She said: “For Malawi, this is a moment of pride. It puts the Warm Heart of Africa on the world map. So I am excited. Busy Signal is a global voice. Millions listen to him. I’m a Malawian daughter who just believes in our people.
“When we come together, not as celebrities, but as human beings and walk into a classroom or meet a mother at a clinic and use our influence to lift someone, that’s when the influence matters.”
Some of his fans could not hide their excitement upon learning of the announcement.
“The signal is very busy. This is very beautiful. We will be there to welcome the president,” Tinky Winky said.
Another fan, Wyton Namoto said: “Good development sister Wendy. He is one of my favourite artists. The Turf boss. I know he loves Malawi since he performed here. Let us support his charity.”
