How Mikozi Network thrives
The dawn of social media has shifted the way artists promote their products and communicate with fans. These days, there is more instant interaction on various social media platforms. One of the major social media entertainment platform in Malawi is Mikozi Network. Up-and-coming artists as well as established ones rely on the platform which has more than 400 000 followers to promote their products. Our reporter KELLY NAPOLO caught up with the platform’s CEO Bright ‘Ekcess’ Chiligo to discuss the platform’s activities.
Q
: Who is Bright Ekcess Chiligo?
A
: I am someone who grew up in the entertainment industry from being a music producer to musician then a music event manager to an artist manager. I am also co-founder of one of the leading entertainment platforms in Malawi, Mikozi Network.
Q
: How did Mikozi Network start?
A
: Mikozi started as an event management group when I was still in college in 2014. After graduating in 2016, the team expanded into different segments as more creative people began to join.
Q
: What are some of the drawbacks and highlights you encountered as you were starting Mikozi Network?
A
: Gaining acceptance by the corporate world has always been a major challenge we faced. Being youths that were always at the centre of controversy, we were regarded as useless and that nothing productive would come out of us. However, despite the negative side, we have also had high moments. Our highest and breakthrough moment was a meeting we had with Mr Jimmy Koreia Mpatsa who gave us direction and mentorship in the business world. Following the guidance he gave us, corporate bodies and non-governmental organisations opened up to us and began to understand the ideas we had.
Q
: What have been the highlights for Mikozi Network in the entertainment sector in 2022?
A
: Compared to previous years, I believe 2022 proved that Malawi entertainment sector is turning to a profitable industry. Artists have been seen getting good pay in shows, gaining good corporate deals, monetising their online numbers and living a better life which indicates a progress in the sector. Despite the year being productive for artists, it has also been a painful year as the industry lost artists who were at the peak of their careers.
Q
: Some people have complained about your page being a platform for bullying that may sometimes affect others emotionally. How do you handle such cases on your page?
A
: There is a gap between entertainment and sensitive issues. As we grow, we have learnt to always be centred on arts and entertainment and never publicise any content that lead to defamation on our social media platforms. We also have individuals that play the role of gatekeeping in our system and ensure that hate speech is filtered. Throughout our controversy and entertainment, our goal is to build and not to destroy. That is why you will never see our platform publishing sensitive photos.
We always thank everyone that sees value in us. It keeps the team going.
