As the clock struck midnight, ushering in the year 2025, Malawians reflected on a year that saw the entertainment industry reach new heights. The year 2024 showcased the country’s vibrant music scene, with a plethora of events that drew large crowds and even attracted international attention.
One of the highlights was the Lake of Stars Festival, which brought together local and international artists for a weekend of music, art, and culture. The festival, which has become a staple on Malawi’s entertainment calendar, not only provided a platform for local artists to showcase their talent but also helped to promote tourism.
Other notable events included the Mpoto Awards, Maso Awards, and Malawi Broadcasting Station’s Entertainers of the Year Awards, which recognised and rewarded excellence in the entertainment industry. The Urban Music Promotions (UMP) Festival, Beerland Festival, and Karaoke Nights were the other notable events that took place in 2024.
In addition to these events, 2024 also saw a number of Malawian artists perform abroad, helping to promote the country’s music and culture on the international stage.
Artists such as Tay Grin, Saint, Driemo, Temwa and many more performed in South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania and other countries, earning foreign exchange for the country and helping to promote Malawi’s tourism industry.
“I’m so proud of how far our music industry has come,” said Tay Grin. “Performing outside the country has not only helped to promote my music but also to showcase Malawi’s beauty and culture to the world. I am also humbled to have won the African Achievement Award as the Best African International Cultural Ambassador, it’s a great honour to represent Malawi on the international stage.”
Another event that stood out in 2024 was the African Night Print, a first-of-its-kind that celebrated African traditional and promoted local designs. The event, which encouraged attendees to wear locally-made design outfits, was a huge success and helped to promote Malawi’s rich cultural heritage.
“I was amazed by the creativity and talent on display at the African Night Print,” said Cecilia Bamusi, a fashion designer who showcased her designs at the event. “It was a wonderful opportunity to promote local designs and celebrate our African heritage.”
As the year came to a close, Malawians gathered at various events across the country to celebrate the start of a new year. The Beerland Show at Scallas Cafe, the Gatsby Gold Affair at Amaryllis Hotel, and the crossover event at Raised For A Purpose Church were some of the events that took place on New Year’s Eve.
“I had an amazing time at the Gatsby Gold Affair,” said Alice Dumeya, who attended the event. “I was able to experience the performances at both the Stakeout and Orchid venues, and it was incredible to see the different lineups of artists. The fireworks display at midnight was the perfect way to cap off the night, and I felt so grateful to have been part of such a special event.”
As we welcome in the New Year, it is clear that the e n t e r t a inme n t industry in Malawi is on the rise. With a glut of talented artists and e v e n t s , 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for music and entertainment in Malawi.
“I am so excited to see what the New Year holds for the entertainment industry in Malawi,” said Tonderai Banda, a music promoter. “With the success of events like the African Print Party and the growth of our music industry, I have no doubt that 2025 will be an amazing year for music and entertainment.”
As we look to the future, it is clear that the entertainment industry in Malawi has a bright future. With a talented pool of artists, promoters, and event organisers, the country is poised to become a major player in the African entertainment industry.
