Over 10 years ago, Theresa Phondo was a member of the now-defunct Zathu Band. Her impact was largely felt through the combination of other members, including Paul Kachala, Nyokase Madise, Esther Chitheka-Lewis and Joe Kellz.
When the band disbanded and its members pursued solo projects, Phondo had to emerge from the shadows of the group to establish her own name, identity and following.
It was not an easy journey. Years later, Phondo needs no introduction. She remains one of Malawi’s most streamed female artists.
Now, she has taken another bold step by staging her first solo event, which she will headline with Nigerian gospel star Ada Ehi and Zambia’s Pompi.
“I am looking forward to the event because it is a milestone in my career, a solo career that began in 2021,” she said in an exclusive interview with Society.
Phondo said the milestone concert will take place at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) amphitheatre on October 31 2026.
She said she decided to organise the concert after feeling satisfied with where she is in her music career.
“The time simply felt right. I believe that, humanly speaking, we have instincts that tell us when it is time to take particular steps in life. Take a baby, for example. A child will begin to crawl, then stand, then eventually walk. At each stage, they somehow know that it is time to move forward. I feel I experienced a similar sense that the time had come,” she said.
Phondo’s management team started preparing for the concert last year and has since refined the concept.
“I also believe that, as people, we need to have the audacity to dream big and pursue our dreams. We only have one life, and life is short. Whether you are a woman or a man, I believe it is important to have the courage to do what God has placed in your heart to do,” she said.
Phondo will be supported by local artists, including Praise Umali, Beracah, Esther Chitheka-Lewis and Kachala.
But the music industry can be challenging, particularly for women. Phondo says having a strong support system has helped her navigate the terrain.
“I am fortunate to have a strong management team. My husband is also my manager and is closely involved in the industry. He handles much of the interfacing with producers, artists and other industry players, which I believe shields me from some of the challenges other female artists experience.
“I also try not to approach my career from the mindset that because I am a woman I am disadvantaged. I focus on giving my best, working hard and making the most of the opportunities available to me.”
Malawians might remember Phondo for her hit song Blessings, which became popular with celebrities from around the world who used it in their social media videos.
She also made a major career move when she travelled to Uganda to perform.
“It was an opportunity to minister to thousands of people. It was a great honour to connect with the Ugandan audience and experience the impact of my music in a different country,” she said.
One of Phondo’s former bandmates and a supporting act at the upcoming concert, Chitheka-Lewis, said she was delighted to perform alongside Phondo and other artists.
“I am prepared and committed to delivering a powerful, excellent and memorable performance. I believe it will be more than just a performance; it will be an experience that people will connect with and remember,” she said.
Chitheka-Lewis said she expects Phondo to bring incredible energy and life to the stage.
“Together, we are ready to create an atmosphere that will leave the audience inspired, uplifted and thoroughly entertained. I am looking forward to being part of this incredible concert and giving my very best,” she said.
Nigerian gospel singer Ada Ehi began her music career at the age of 10. Some of her popular songs include Definitely, Cheta and Only You Jesus.
Pompi is a Zambian gospel musician who has also collaborated with several Malawian artists in recent years.
