Giddes Chalamanda dares Chakwera to promote arts

Veteran musician Giddes Chalamanda has urged President Lazarus Chakwera to revamp the arts sector, which is currently in shambles.

Chalamanda discussed arts with the President when he was invited to the State House on January 20 as part of his 92nd birthday celebration.

Chakwera met the legendary musician after hearing about Chalamanda’s birthday.

The President acknowledged on his official Facebook page to have touched base with Chalamanda on a number of critical areas that need improvement.

Wrote the President: “I hosted music legend, Giddes Chalamanda, for a chat that revolved around his views on music, arts and history about his career.

“During our interaction, Giddes gave me insights on how best government and the music industry can collaborate in creating jobs and inclusive wealth for all Malawians.”

Chalamanda hinted that just like the Sports Council, Malawian artists are desperately in need of an Arts Council which could support arts associations to implement different programmes that will create jobs and improve the sector.

The President also committed that he will treat the issue of the Arts Council with seriousness to ensure that the arts sector starts performing.

Chalamanda is one of the oldest musicians of his generation who continues to make immense contributions to the development of arts in the country.

During the meeting, the President presented Chalamanda with a trophy in recognition of his work.

Born on January 15 1931, Chalamanda started  music in the 1950s as a street performer, but started recording in 1970 with Malawi Broadcasting Corporation.