The 2024 Mpoto Awards held at the Grand Palace Hotel in Mzuzu on Friday was a resounding success, exceeding the organisers’ expectations.
The event, which brought together people from across the Northern Region, was an indicator to the region’s colourful creative scene.
The ceremony celebrated excellence, recognised outstanding achievements in various categories, including social impact and community development, gender and women empowerment, arts and entertainment, sports and media communication.
The event was electrified by performances by poet Taonga Jeka and musicians Faith Music, Jamie Set, Shano Index, Francisco Misisi, Merchah and Prince Chitz
Event coordinator Burnet Mulungu expressed satisfaction with how things went. He said organisers were thrilled with its success which was better than expected.
“We are glad that people came through even though the event was initially cancelled on November 22 2024,” he said.
Mulungu added that they faced challenges with sponsorship for the event and are still calling for sponsors for the upcoming one.
Guest of honour Qabaniso Malewezi praised the Northern Region’s contributions to Malawi’s creative landscape.
“There is no movement that has happened in Malawi without mentioning the Northern Region chapter,” he said.
Malewezi, who is special adviser to the President on creative industries, congratulated winners. He urged artists to join music unions to have a unified voice.
He highlighted the significance of the recently passed National Arts and Heritage Act which will uplift creatives in different societies.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mzuzu Central Hospital chief surgeon Dr. Judith Mkwaila.
In an interview, Dr. Mkwaila expressed her gratitude, saying the award shows that her commitment to work is recognised.
