If there is a mix of cultures in the ghetto, Bangwe Township in Blantyre is a crucible. It is a melting pot of diverse ways of life.
Bringing together people from all walks of life, notably Thyolo, Chiradzulu, Blantyre and, especially when the railway line was up and running, Nsanje. That is, not to mention the numerous dwellers from districts beyond its boundaries who find the township convenient to work and conduct business in Limbe.
That the township is a bundle of contradictions is also evident in its very location. It lies between Mpingwe Hill, which is highly deforested due to the activities of people from the township, and Malabvi Hill, which, in contrast, is heavily protected by people from neighbouring Chiradzulu.
Bangwe Township is sandwiched between the affluent Mpingwe and BCA Hills. Before you gape in amazement, you realise there are more layers to Bangwe as a township—Bisiyere (a corruption of BCA Hills), Ntopwa, Mvula, Nthandizi, Namiyango, Banana and all the rest.
For a long time, Bangwe Township has been associated with social challenges and a lot of negative scenarios. On the street, when you have been robbed, beaten or inflicted with pain in any way, they say: ‘Waiona Bangwe’.
But, if you ask ethnomusicologist Waliko Makhala, bangwe, known in English as the board zither, is a musical instrument, mired in deep African roots which produces an authentic sound that fuses well with other instruments. He plays the seven-stringed bangwe. The other version is a 21-stringed bangwe.
Makhala will not tell you whether Bangwe Township got its name from the musical instruments but he will give you a deep list of Malawian authentic musicians who play the instrument. These include Tambala Chitenje, Tione Mwela, Limited Fundo Phiri, Mpotandebvu, Moya Aliya Malamusi and a host of others.
“It is a unique instrument that produces fine melody. It is played as a solo instrument, but it fuses well with other instruments such as drums. Production of the bangwe is an art in itself, as evidenced in Grace Kamanga of Nkhata Bay who made bangwes for the willing,” says the bush music proponent.
Acoustic musician, Agorosso, a product of Bangwe says the township might bear its name from several players of the instrument who lived in the area. He singles out the Mabangwe Band, as one.
Over the years, he says, Bangwe has dominated the music industry. There is no greater wedding song in Malawi than Chinafuna Mbale by Lucky Stars Band from Bangwe. Achimwene Musalire is another from Gas Machine Head, a popular band from the township. The original Kasambwe Brothers Band was from this same township. Fikisa and their authentic drum-beat shook the Dessert ground in Bangwe every other time.
“In fact, Allan Namoko was a Bangwe resident. From Chimvu in Thyolo he came to Bangwe and went to the world with music. Today, the youth are coming up with better sounds. It is not only a type of music that is telling the tales of the ghetto but also employing many youths,” says Agorosso, real name Lloyd Paundi.
Blantyre City deputy mayor, a Bangwe Ntopwa councillor, Jomo Osman agrees with the continued legacy of the township’s musicians.
“There are a number of musical artists who are taking the township to another level. They are playing music that is not only changing their lives but also showing our rich culture,” he says.
The Bangwe vibrant music scene is changing this narrative. The township is home to a growing number of artists who are using their craft to tell stories, address social issues, and entertain audiences both locally and internationally.
Think of ‘celeb wachikulire’ Jetu who has shown that age is nothing but a number in music.
Jetu overcame the odds as one of the oldest urban musicians. Her age didn’t stop her pursuing the dream as an artist, at 72, she is known for her unique style and captivating performances, as she has become a household name in the urban music scene.
Her ability to blend traditional Malawian sounds with modern beats has earned her a loyal fan base. Songs like Chakwaza, Waimanya and Simunatchene even gave her global recognition showcasing her versatility and creativity.
She is not alone. Think of artists like FadaMoti, Toast and Zonke, who are not only putting Bangwe on the map, but also inspiring a new generation of musicians.
The township is exposed to a host of global trends of music genres like hip-hop, dancehall and Afrobeat. Such influence resonates with artists from the township to create a unique sound of music which is appreciated by local and international audiences.
FadaMoti has gained recognition for his energetic performances and relatable lyrics. His music often reflects the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, making it relevant to a wide audience. Tracks such as Kutali, M’sandithawe, 2+5 and Mudyera have become anthems, solidifying his place in the industry.
On the other hand, Zonke, with his unique vocals and powerful lyrics, has carved a niche for himself on the urban music scene. His songs often address themes of love, resilience, and empowerment, resonating with listeners from all walks of life.
Another emerging star from Bangwe, 13-year-old AJuh is quickly gaining attention for his fresh sound and innovative approach to music.
Affirming the success of Bangwe music, rapper Toast said growing up in Bangwe, artists are shaped by a combination of cultural, social, and personal influences surrounding them.
The success of these artists can be attributed to their hard work, resilience, and the support of their community.
In the past, Bangwe was not short of music producers. This is where Ralph Ching’amba produced the Black Missionaries. Today, you have local studio producers such as Awosh and Bispa.
Social media and digital platforms have also played a crucial role in amplifying their reach, allowing them to connect with audiences beyond Malawi.
Social commentator Wonderful Mkhutche, who has written books on Malawi musical legends such as Lucius Banda and Billy Kaunda, says Bangwe is one township where one is born knowing that they have to fight hard to survive.
“This environment has necessitated the creation of different opportunities, including arts. Young people fight hard to find a place for themselves hence the growth of arts from the area,” he observes.
He, however, adds that this potential needs to be harnessed through music shows in the area as well as mainstream artists.
