By Mable Phiri in Nkhotakota
It was a chilly Friday afternoon in the shores of Lake Malawi, Nkhotakota area where some excited Lake of Stars festival goers were watching the snorkeling and diving of the hundreds of colorful fish species from the third largest lake in Africa, while some were seen swimming in their colorful costumes.
Sunny Saturday morning is another hive of activity along the beaches of Lake Malawi as festival goers couldn’t hesitate to taste the famous fish locally known as Chambo, as they watch performances from various groups like poetry, musicals (including live bands) and traditional dances.
Nothing brings people together like a joyous Lake of Stars, Malawi’s Arts Festival, a cultural celebration that made its return for its 20th year anniversary together with the 60th anniversary of Malawi’s independence celebrations from September 6th to September 8th 2024.
The Lake of Stars festival, an event which has not been held for four years due to covid-19 attracted thousands attendees with a number of performers showcasing various performances.
The return of the festival is led by its new license holder Dusty Orange Projects (DOPE) led by director Sharmila Elias who takes over from founder Will Jameson.
The international cultural movement that attracts multitudes each year from around the world since 2003 was inspired by a visit to Malawi and a desire to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Recognized for its impact on the Arts, tourism and the economy, the festival has garnered numerous awards and continues to inspire artists and festival enthusiasts worldwide.
In her opening remarks, Lake of Stars Festival Director of Media and Partnerships Zilanie Gondwe said “even though we took a break for four years, life was hard after covid-19 guys, but we are here celebrating the 20th anniversary of Lake of Stars festival which brings people together, build communities of the shores of Lake Malawi, appreciate some culture and to tell amazing stories about our nature, wildlife and music.”
Gondwe is pleased that the Czech Republic has started a relationship with Lake of Stars by supporting journalists from Zambia to cover the festival.
She says having international journalists, especially those from within the region, to tell positive stories about the event is deeply appreciative.
British High Commissioner to Malawi Fiona Ritchie who indicated that UK is one of the biggest sponsors of the festival said it’s inspiring to note that the festival is completely owned and run by an incredible female Malawian.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local government, Unity and culture Elizabeth Gomani Chindevu who spoke on behalf of the Minister of Local Unity and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda said the event has inspired many festivals with Malawi boasting of having over 10 Arts festivals.
She said every year, new festivals are being launched.
“It is also a known fact that lake of stars is one of the festivals that has put Malawi on the map,” Dr Chindevu said.
She added that the Ministry will create a conducive environment for the creative industries through relevant policies and interventions.
Dr Chindevu also said soon, the Arts and Heritage Bill will be tabled in the National Assembly.
“One of the interesting things about Lake of Stars festival is that it is now owned and managed by two beautiful and prominent Malawian ladies,” she added while emphasizing the need to give the ladies space in the arts as women have skills and potential to excel in the fraternity in question.
Dr Chindevu further explained that the Ministry will soon launch a project supported by UNESCO international fund for cultural development to support and empower female creatives.
One of the famous Artist in Malawi Zeze Kingston, known for Amapiano music said being at Lake of Stars as the headliner is important and motivating to him and even to the artists that didn’t make it to the event.
The event is expected to have over 70 acts from Malawi and other countries including the UK, South Africa, Finland and the Netherlands.
Friday’s headliners were Titom and Yuppe from South Africa, Zeze Kingston, Emmie Deebo, Rachael Dadd from the UK and DJ Sandra Susi from Finaland.
There’s also a mini market for Malawian products at the venue where festival goers shop for local crafts and goods.
