Tumaini Festival aims for more
The Tumaini Festival director Menes La Plume says the event is needed now more than before.
The festival will this year take place from November 2 to November 5 at Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa.
Said La Plume: “There is significant change in the lives of the people’s lives that have relocated to Dzaleka Refugee Camp. The Malawian and refugee communities have also been disconnected somewhat. The festival this year aims to restore hope and joy in the hearts of refugees and the host communities.”
The Tumaini Festival will this year take place against a background of Malawi government’s efforts to relocate all refugees to the camp, a move that has been met with resistance from the refugee community and some civil society organisations.
La Plume said he believes that this year the spirit of humanity Tumaini Festival is known for will be amplified as they have noted huge excitement from Malawians and the camp dwellers since the dates of the festival were announced.
La Plume said there were fears that the festival would not take place this year and the announcement of the dates has brought relief among fun lovers.
He said: “Art is a powerful tool to comfort hearts, enlighten spirits lost in hopelessness and rebuild broken bridges.”
As per tradition, this year’s festival will be a cocktail of art forms such as music, theatre, poetry, art exhibitions, traditional and contemporary dance and children’s activities.
La Plume said apart from the art and cultural activities, this year’s festival will also focus on dialogue, exchanges and interactive activities that foster social cohesion between communities.
Last year, the festival departed from its tradition as it was held just for a day and not three days due to limited funds. But this year the organisers say they have reverted to its old form and it will be held from November 2 to 5.
La Plume said they have set a budget of K100 million and so far, 30 percent of that budget has been secured. He has since appealed to local and international organisations to render them support to make the event a success.
“Next week we will announce a group of artists who have already confirmed their participation at this year’s festival. At the same time we will announce a call for artists so we can reach out to a diverse range of artists,” he said.
In a separate interview, arts and social commentator Sam Chiwaka said the Tumaini Festival brings more than arts and cultural benefits.
“It is one unique festival which has several benefits to both the patrons and the artists who perform there. It is a huge platform for networking and creating new opportunities. We hope this year it once again harnesses the same spirit of oneness,” he said.
