‘Kweza Afrika Hub seeks to instil a sense of pride in our identity’
As the country continues to open more spaces aimed at promoting artistic and cultural activities, a new art space called Kweza Afrika Hub has opened its doors in Lilongwe. Our arts correspondent HOWARD MLOZI caught up with Q Malewezi, the founder and director of Kweza Afrika Hub, to shed more light on the establishment. Excerpts:
Q
: Tell us more about Kweza Afrika Hub?
A
: Kweza Afrika Hub is a space that inspires present and future cultural leaders rooted in African philosophies and knowledge systems. We offer a co-working space, recording studio, meeting room, and dance studio. As part of our cultural preservation initiative, we showcase photo galleries of Malawian artists. We are all about partnering with creatives to run their activities from here.
Q
: Why did you establish this space in the first place?
A
: I decided to open Kweza because I strongly believe in the importance of physical spaces for artists and creatives. Kweza aims at providing a hub for them to access various facilities and create opportunities in collaboration with us.
Q
: What activities have you organised since its establishment so far?
A
: So far, we have organised training workshops in film, audio and visual production, along with hosting meetings, rehearsals, and small concerts.
Q
: What gaps are you trying to bridge in the arts and cultural sectors?
A
: Over the past five years, we have witnessed the establishment of more arts spaces in various parts of Lilongwe. This is crucial as these spaces address the specific needs of artists and creatives, providing them with the much-needed homes.
Q
: What makes Kweza Afrika unique from these other spaces?
A
: Visitors to the Kweza Afrika Hub can anticipate a blend of cultural experiences, collaboration opportunities, and professional support. Our Malawi/Afro centric approach aims to instil a sense of pride in our identity as Malawians and Africans.
Q
: How can you describe the response of Kweza Afrika Hub?
A
: The people who have visited have felt very inspired by the vision and progress that we are making. Many times Kweza has been described as a safe space for artists and creatives. Most say it feels like home.
Q
: Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
A
: In the next five years, I envision being more hands-on with artists in terms of creative direction. I would also like to give masterclass lectures in our institutions.n
