Cut! Lights off on Mr Splash
In 1998, Malawi had its first television station, Television Malawi (TVM). During that virgin state, it was almost a case of try and error in as far as content was concerned.
However, within the mix of those experiments, some programmes and personalities stood out to be counted and presenter Geoffrey ‘Mr Splash’ Kapusa, who passed away on Tuesday at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, was one of them.
His sister Yamikani confirmed to The Nation that the former television presenter had lost the battle to diabetes.
“The Kapusa family regrets to announce the passing of our son, Geoffrey, who has been called to the Lord today,” reads a brief statement from the family.
Through his Music Splash programme, Kapusa established himself as one of the driving forces on the new television platform during a period when media entertainment was at a minimum.
Musicians such as Austin Sikelemu, Evison Matafale, Rasta Wazza, Hax Momba, Stanley Nyandoro Nthenda, Patrick Tung’ande, Amina Tepatepa, among others became household names courtesy of this outlet.
In a statement on Tuesday, Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) described Kapusa as a dedicated and passionate broadcaster.
“Geoffrey not only enriched our broadcasts with his talent especially on Music Splash, but promoted the creative industry in his own way. His legacy will continue to inspire us and future generations of broadcasters,” reads the statement, signed by MBC director general George Kasakula.
In an interview on Tuesday, seasoned musician Ethel Kamwendo-Banda said Kapusa was passionate about his work which made him not segregate anyone.
“I remember the time I became born again and started doing gospel music. He was instrumental in reintroducing my brand. His programme helped make names for a lot of musicians,” she said.
Kapusa’s easy approach and the apparent charisma in his presentation made his programme a must-watch for many.
His famous ‘splash on’ catch phrase became synonymous with both the young and old. Years after his departure from the station, subsequent hosts of the programme have maintained the catch phrase.
Current host of the programme Geoffrey Chiweza said in an interview on Tuesday: “Being the host of the programme has been a wonderful thing and challenging at the same time.”
One of Kapusa’s former work colleagues during his TVM days, Felix Washoni, described him as a great person to work with, charming, humble, friendly and full of innovation.
He said: “He had great talent and creativity. He was always willing to learn and share his knowledge through his experience. He was a good presenter and producer.”
During his career, Kapusa won several accolades. His last recognition came in 2020 when he was bestowed the Media Legend Award at the Urban Music People Awards.
Kapusa was born in 1971 and is survived by three children. He will be buried tomorrow in his home district of Zomba.
