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Showing posts from March, 2025

Lady Aika's New Single 'Faith' Takes Malawi's Music Scene by Storm

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Malawi's music scene has just gotten a fresh injection of talent with the release of Lady Aika's brand-new single, " Faith ". This highly anticipated track has been making waves in the music industry, and fans are eagerly devouring every note. Lady Aika's soulful voice and captivating stage presence have earned her a loyal following, and " Faith " is poised to cement her status as one of Malawi's leading ladies of music. The song's production quality is top-notch, thanks to the expert touch of TrickyBeatz, a renowned producer and audio engineer. The combination of Lady Aika's vocal prowess and TrickyBeatz's mastery behind the boards has resulted in a truly unforgettable listening experience. "Faith" is a testament to the incredible talent and creativity that Malawi has to offer, and music lovers from all over the world are taking notice. With "Faith", Lady Aika has once again proven herself to be a force to be reckoned...

Jason Momoa's New Love: Inside His Romance with Adria Arjona

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Jason Momoa has found love again after his separation from Lisa Bonet in January 2022. The Aquaman star, who shares two children with his ex-wife, has been dating Morbius actress Adria Arjona. Momoa, 43, initially kept his new relationship under wraps but eventually confirmed it at Basingstoke Comic Con in England on May 11. He teased that fans would find out more about his partner soon, and nine days later, he made it Instagram official. The actor posted a series of photos with Arjona, 31, including a snuggly dinner date in Japan and a romantic moment by the ocean. Momoa captioned the post, "Japan, you are a dream come true... We're so thankful for everyone who opened their homes, making memories with new friends and old friends, sharing another amazing adventure with mi amor." Arjona, a Puerto Rican-Guatemalan actress, seems to share Momoa's passion for motorcycles. The actor, who collects vintage and custom bikes, told Entertainment Tonight that his new partner enj...

Jake Paul Engaged to Olympic Speed Skater Jutta Leerdam

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Jake Paul, 28, announced his engagement to Olympic Dutch speed skater Jutta Leerdam on Saturday, March 22. The couple shared a joint post on Instagram, featuring photos from the special moment. Paul proposed to Leerdam, 25, in a romantic setting surrounded by white flowers and candles. The Olympic speed skater was overwhelmed with joy, jumping for excitement as Paul got down on one knee. The couple met on Instagram in 2022 and went public with their relationship in April 2023. Leerdam has been a frequent supporter of Paul's boxing career, and he has been vocal about his admiration for her athletic prowess. Paul recently praised Leerdam on Instagram after she competed in the 2025 World Speed Skating Single Distances Championships. He called her "the hardest worker and the most gorgeous" and expressed his admiration for her dedication to her sport. The engagement news comes amidst Paul's ongoing feud with boxer Floyd Mayweather, who recently responded to Paul's clai...

Meet Kooldrink, the 25-Year-Old Producer Revolutionizing Amapiano

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At just 25, Munashe Kugarakuripi, aka Kooldrink, is making waves in the music industry with his unique blend of amapiano and pop. Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Johannesburg, Kooldrink is now based in Los Angeles, where he's reshaping global music. As the mastermind behind Tyla's breakout hit "Getting Late," Kooldrink engineered a cultural shift in the music industry. He sees music as an equation, a calculated process where rhythm, melody, and emotion fit into a structured formula. "Music is like math," he tells GQ South Africa. "It's all about patterns." Kooldrink's strategic approach to music led to the creation of "Getting Late," a track designed to bridge South Africa's amapiano movement with the global pop market. With his latest single "Show Me," featuring Nina Nevra, Kooldrink is cementing his role as a pioneer of Pop Piano, an evolution of amapiano that merges its deep grooves with the structure and appeal of...

Big Brother Mzansi Umlilo Season 5: Meet the Final Five Contestants

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The grand finale of Big Brother Mzansi Umlilo Season 5 is here, with five housemates remaining in the competition. Each contestant has a unique game plan, but only one will walk away with the R2 million grand prize. Jojo, dubbed "The Mastermind," has controlled the game with her ruthless gameplay and strategic moves. However, her cutthroat approach may have created too many enemies. Nate, "The Silent Instigator," has played smart, staying under the radar while sparking drama behind the scenes. Nsuku, "The Resilient One," has shown grit and determination, ruling the arena and refusing to break under pressure. Sweet Guluva, "The Dark Horse," has let his actions do the talking, dominating early competitions and charming his way through the game. Uyanda, "The Relentless Fighter," has never backed down from a challenge, securing a vital win when it mattered most. Love him or hate him, Uyanda has fought hard for his place in the finale. The f...

Drake's Lawsuit Against Universal Music Group Heats Up

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Universal Music Group (UMG) has filed a motion to dismiss Drake's lawsuit, claiming the rapper instigated the feud with Kendrick Lamar and is now trying to deflect from his loss. According to UMG, Drake's "Taylor Made Freestyle" provoked Lamar's response, and "Not Like Us" is protected under First Amendment free speech rights as part of hip-hop's diss culture. UMG argues that Drake "lost a rap battle that he provoked and in which he willingly participated," and his lawsuit is a "misguided attempt to salve his wounds." The label claims Drake is trying to frame the issue as defamatory misinformation because he was defeated. Drake's lead attorney, Mike Gottlieb, counters that UMG is attempting to mislead the public by portraying the matter as a mere rap battle. Gottlieb argues that the lawsuit is about holding UMG accountable for profiting from "dangerous misinformation that has already resulted in multiple acts of violence...

Kim Kardashian 'Done' with Kanye West After Latest Rant

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  Kim Kardashian is reportedly fed up with Kanye West's behavior after his latest rant on social media. The 47-year-old rapper attacked Beyonce and Jay-Z's seven-year-old twins Rumi and Sir in an unprovoked post. An insider told Page Six that Kim, 44, has "had enough" and is "done trying to be reasonable" with Kanye when it comes to communication. The source added that Kim was "appalled" by Kanye's language and thinks "kids are off limits" in any feud. Kanye deleted the post before re-sharing it hours later, claiming he didn't take it down to be a "good person." Instead, he said he removed it because his Twitter account was at risk of being canceled. The incident is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding Kanye. Recent reports claimed Kim was considering changing their custody agreement after Kanye released a song featuring their eldest daughter North West without her approval. Kanye and Kim settled their div...

Big Brother Mzansi Fans Under Fire for Spamming Comment Sections

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  The final week of "Big Brother Mzansi" has seen fans going all out to campaign for their favorite housemate. However, one fan base has taken its enthusiasm too far, spamming comment sections with pleas to vote for Sweet Guluva. Guluva, a low-key housemate initially, gained attention and admiration for his charm and relationship with former housemate Ash-ley Ogle. After Ogle's departure, Guluva's personality shone through, earning him votes from supporters and Ogle's followers. However, Guluva's fans have been showing support in a way that has rubbed other internet users the wrong way. They have been commenting under different posts, asking people to vote for Guluva, without regard for the context or importance of the conversations. Somizi Mhlongo and TikTok creator Jaxx_Amahle have called out the fans for their spamming tactics. Mhlongo claimed that the fans are ruining Guluva's chances of winning due to their behavior. Jaxx_Amahle pleaded with the fans ...

Justin and Hailey Bieber Enjoy Child-Free Sushi Date Amid Selena Gomez's 'Diss' Songs

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Justin Bieber and his wife, Hailey Bieber, stepped out for a child-free sushi date in West Hollywood, Calif., on Friday. The couple left their 7-month-old son, Jack Blues, at home and enjoyed a night out at celebrity hotspot Sushi Park. Justin, 31, was photographed wearing an oversized white shirt and baggy black pants, while Hailey, 28, sported a white tank top under a khaki jacket and black trousers. The model flashed a grin as they walked into the restaurant. The outing comes amid speculation that Justin's ex, Selena Gomez, has released diss tracks about him on her new album, "I Said I Love You First." Gomez, 32, dropped the joint album with her fiancé, Benny Blanco, on Friday morning. Fans believe Gomez may have included at least one diss song aimed at Justin, whom she dated on and off for years. On the track "How Does It Feel To Be Forgotten," Gomez sings lyrics that appear to be directed at Justin. Gomez has attempted to downplay the speculation, stating i...

Nicki Minaj Makes History as Sole Rapper in Billboard's Top 20 Female Artists

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Nicki Minaj continues to reign supreme in the rap world, emerging as the only rapper in Billboard's top 20 female artists of the 21st century. According to Billboard's latest rankings, Minaj is the highest-ranked rapper on the Top 100 Women Artists list. Minaj's consistent presence at the top of the charts, combined with the success of her recent Pink Friday 2 world tour, solidifies her position as a major force in the industry. The tour, which celebrated the anniversary of her debut album, received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. Minaj's success can be attributed to her unique blend of lyrical skill, creative vision, and unwavering confidence. Her music often explores themes of empowerment, self-love, and personal growth, resonating with fans from diverse backgrounds. With a career spanning over a decade, Minaj has built a loyal fan base and has been recognized for her contributions to music, including numerous awards and accolades. She has also mad...

Boxing Legend George Foreman Passes Away at 76, Tributes Pour In

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George Foreman, the two-time world heavyweight champion boxer and Olympic gold medalist, has died peacefully at the age of 76, surrounded by his family. His family announced his passing on Instagram, describing him as a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grand and great-grandfather. Foreman was born in Texas in 1949 and grew up in Houston. He turned to boxing at 17 to lose weight and became a Golden Glover. At just 19 years old, he won a gold medal at the Mexico City Olympic Games in 1968. Foreman's professional career was marked by success, but he faced a devastating defeat in 1974 against Muhammad Ali in the historic "Rumble in the Jungle" fight. Foreman retired from boxing for good in 1999, finishing with 76 wins and five losses. In addition to his boxing career, Foreman launched the George Foreman Grill in 1994 and competed on "The Masked Singer" in 2022. He fathered 12 children and is survived by his fifth wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and his children. ...

Miss SA Runner-Up Mpume Maduna Launches Mentorship Campaign for South African Youth

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Mpume Maduna, the 2024 Miss SA runner-up, has unveiled her latest initiative, the Impumelelo Mentorship campaign. This ambitious project aims to empower the youth of South Africa by sharing the inspirational stories of successful individuals who have overcome challenges. The campaign's cornerstone is the "Impumelelo Mentorship" podcast, set to launch at the end of March. The six-episode series will feature conversations with inspirational figures, showcasing their journeys and offering valuable insights to young listeners. Maduna emphasized the importance of mentorship, stating that it is the most precious gift a person with experience can give to others. She hopes to inspire and transform young people's lives through the podcast. Maduna's passion for mentoring stems from her own life experiences. She shared her journey, highlighting the crucial life lessons she learned while navigating limited financial resources as a student. The "Impumelelo Mentorship...

Remembering Dr. Lizard: Efforts to Revive Malawi Music Legend's Legacy

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Efforts are underway to honor and celebrate the remarkable legacy of Malawian music legend, Dr. Lizard. The trailblazer in reggae dancehall and traditional music rose to fame in the 1990s with his iconic hit "Mama." Dr. Lizard's music journey began with his inaugural song "Oneness," a collaboration with other artists. However, it was "Mama" that resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying his place in the music industry. To keep his legacy alive, his elder brother, Manase Chisiza, is utilizing social media platforms to showcase Dr. Lizard's rare music videos, photographs, and exclusive music releases. The song "Mama" is also being re-mastered and will be re-released on April 6, 2025. Dr. Lizard's innovative music shaped the Malawian music scene and inspired a generation of artists. He was a regular guest on Ragga Street on MBCs Radio 2FM in the late 90s. The artist's legacy continues to resonate, remaining a cherished memory for ...

Malawian Graphic Designer William Chipula Wins Durban Music Fest Design Competition

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 Malawian graphic designer William Chipula has won a design competition for the Durban Music Fest in South Africa, beating out 10 other designers. Chipula's alternative artwork, which he shared on social media, caught the attention of event organizers, who invited him to participate in the competition. Chipula's winning design will be featured as the official artwork for the festival, and he has also been given the opportunity to work with the team on additional festival visuals. As a prize, Chipula received two golden circle tickets to experience the festival up close. In an interview, Chipula said he was inspired to create his own design after seeing the initial poster released by the event organizers. He felt that the original design lacked something, and his own design aimed to be more luxurious, sophisticated, and eye-catching. Chipula's win has opened up new opportunities for him, including working with other South African brands and engaging with the country's De...

Dayo Amusa Sets Record Straight on Relationship with K1 De Ultimate

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Nollywood actress Dayo Amusa has finally addressed the rumors linking her romantically to Fuji music legend King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as K1 De Ultimate. In a recent interview, Amusa dismissed the speculation, stating that their relationship is built on mutual respect and support. Amusa explained that people often assume a romantic relationship between a man and a woman simply because they share a close connection. However, she views K1 as more than just a friend - he has been a mentor, father figure, and guiding force in her life. The actress expressed gratitude for K1's steadfast support, revealing that he provided encouragement and strength during difficult times in her career. His influence helped her push past obstacles and rise above limitations. Amusa believes that a person like K1, who has stood by her through thick and thin, deserves to be cherished - no matter how much outsiders try to misinterpret their relationship. This clarification comes after Amusa's ...

Craig David and Tiwa Savage Team Up on New Single 'Commitment

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R&B icon Craig David has released a new single, "Commitment", featuring Afrobeats powerhouse Tiwa Savage. The song explores the complexities of modern relationships, blending Afrobeats, pop, and R&B to create a captivating sonic landscape. The track delves into the challenges faced by a couple navigating turbulent waters, with both artists offering their perspectives. Craig David's verses depict a man feeling undervalued, while Tiwa Savage counters with her own narrative, explaining her emotional distance as a response to her partner's ambition. In an interview on Capital XTRA Breakfast, Craig David shared the story behind the collaboration. He explained that the song's theme prompted the search for a suitable collaborator, and Tiwa Savage was the unanimous choice. Tiwa Savage's enthusiastic response to the project was evident, with Craig David quoting her as saying she would have jumped on the song even if it wasn't great. The chemistry between th...

Young Jonn Celebrates Three Years as a Solo Artist, Reflects on Journey

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Nigerian hitmaker Young Jonn has marked three years as a solo musician, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to reflect on his journey. He shared a heartfelt post, thanking supporters and promising even greater things to come. Before becoming a solo artist, Young Jonn was a renowned producer, working with industry giants like Olamide and Lil Kesh. However, in 2022, he signed with Chocolate City and launched his career as a recording artist. Young Jonn's debut single, "DADA," quickly became a fan favorite, and he has since consistently delivered high-quality music. His debut album, "Jiggy Forever," showcased his ability to craft aspirational hits, solidifying his place as a top-tier artist. Over the past three years, Young Jonn has achieved milestones that many artists spend a lifetime chasing. He has collaborated with big names like Sean Paul and Kizz Daniel, and has performed at electrifying shows, including Davido's AWAY Festival. As Young Jonn steps into the ne...

YDC Calls for Investment in Theatre for Children and Young People

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As the world celebrates World Theatre for Children and Young People, Blantyre-based youthful theatre group YDC has called upon policymakers to invest in theatre for children and young people. The group believes that investing in theatre will help young people achieve their dreams. YDC's remarks were made by actor and playwright Fumbani Phiri, who emphasized the importance of theatre in nurturing creativity and promoting social transformation. Phiri noted that theatre is not just a form of entertainment but also a powerful tool for shaping young minds and fostering empathy. Phiri urged policymakers to fund youth-led initiatives and recognize the arts as a vital tool for social transformation. He believes that this will help build a society that values its young artists and fosters innovation, inclusion, and development. The celebration of World Theatre for Children and Young People is an initiative led by the International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People (Assite...

National Arts and Heritage Council Receives K708 Million Allocation

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  The long-awaited National Arts and Heritage Council (Nahec) is one step closer to becoming a reality, thanks to a K708 million allocation. Director of Arts Humphrey Mpondamanga confirmed the development, stating that the funds will help lay the foundation for Nahec's operations. Although the allocated amount is less than the requested K3.78 billion, Nahec Taskforce spokesperson Ron Muphuwa expressed appreciation for the gesture. Muphuwa acknowledged the government's pressure to allocate resources to various sectors, but remains hopeful for future funding. Special Adviser to President Lazarus Chakwera on Creative Industries, Q Malewezi, emphasized the President's commitment to making Nahec a reality. Malewezi highlighted the President's dedication to the development of arts and culture in Malawi. The K708 million allocation is a welcome development for the creative sector, which had petitioned President Chakwera for funding consideration in the 2025/2026 national budge...

Malawi Celebrates World Poetry Day with Reflections on Power of Poetry

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Today, March 21, marks World Poetry Day, a celebration of the beauty and power of poetry. Declared by Unesco in 1999, the day aims to support linguistic diversity through poetic expression and promote endangered languages. In Malawi, poets are joining the global celebration, reflecting on the power of poetry to transcend speeches and slogans, especially in this election year. Renowned poet Q Malewezi emphasized the importance of poetry in uniting people through their common humanity.                            Award-winning poet Refilwe Ntopa from Vilipanganga Poetry Movement noted that World Poetry Day celebrates a medium that allows people to reflect on collective humanity and personal experiences. The movement hosts poetry gatherings at Kwaharaba Art Gallery in Blantyre. The Poetry Association of Malawi (Pam) President Robert Chiwamba encouraged all poets to write poetry for peace and unity, especially with electio...

Theresa Phondo Set to Perform at The Easter Experience in Blantyre

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Multi-award winning afro R&B gospel musician Theresa Phondo will perform in Blantyre for the first time as a solo artist at The Easter Experience. The event, organized by Revive and Worship Concert, will take place on April 19, 2025, at Sunbird Mount Soche Hotel. Theresa Phondo expressed her excitement to perform in Blantyre alongside other gospel musicians, including Paul Kachala. She sees the concert as an opportunity to worship and uplift God. The Easter Experience will feature a rich lineup of gospel musicians, including Praise Umali, Kelvin Sings, and Beracah. DJ Kenny, who has partnered with Classic Events Management, aims to create a platform for a proper worship experience. The Revive and Worship Concert seeks to give people an experience of worship, praise, and divine encounter. The event organizers plan to hold two events every year, one in Blantyre and another in Lilongwe. Theresa Phondo is looking forward to meeting fellow artists and interacting with the audience. The ...

Classick Denies Alcohol Addiction Allegations, Receives Support from Fans and Fellow Artists

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Malawian hip-hop artist Classick, a member of the duo Home Grown Africa, has denied allegations of struggling with alcohol addiction. The claims were made by Fayaz Mainja on Facebook, who expressed concern about Classick's well-being. Mainja's post sparked a discussion on social media, with Don Khiva sharing screenshots of the post on X (formerly Twitter) and voicing his concerns. Khiva urged Classick's friends to check on him, citing the negative impact of addiction on Boy Magic's music career. However, Classick responded to the allegations, dismissing them as untrue. He stated that people would be surprised to know who actually scripts things online, implying that the claims were fabricated. Classick's response was met with a wave of supportive comments from fans, who expressed their relief that he was doing well. Don Khiva also added a supportive comment, saying he was glad to hear that Classick sounded good. The incident highlights the importance of verifying in...

Anticipation Builds for 'The Gunless Soldier' Movie Premiere

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The upcoming movie premiere of "The Gunless Soldier" has generated significant excitement and enthusiasm among fans. The film, directed by award-winning filmmaker Joyce Mhango Chavula, is set to premiere on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe. The movie boasts a talented cast of renowned Malawian film actors, including Ashukile Mwakisulu, Edwin Chonde, Kelvin Ngoma, Lillian Masangano, and Mphatso Chikuni. According to Joyce Mhango Chavula, fans are eagerly anticipating the premiere, with some even buying tickets in bulk to show their support. Preparations for the red-carpet event are underway, with tickets available for purchase at Golden Peacock Hotel. The premiere will feature a performance by Malita and will be hosted by Blessed Citizen. Ticket prices range from K20,000 for standard tickets to K100,000 for VVIP tickets. Joyce Mhango Chavula has encouraged companies and individuals to partner with and sponsor the premiere. In return, sponsors will re...

Don Tarz Laments Missed Opportunities in Malawian Dancehall Scene

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Dancehall musician Don Tarz has expressed his disappointment over the challenges facing the Malawian dancehall scene. He likened the situation to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where local resources primarily benefit outsiders. Tarz emphasized that many Malawian dancehall artists can energize a crowd but struggle to seize financial opportunities. He noted that they can attract fans but fail to generate revenue, much like a flame that attracts but doesn't warm. Tarz cited the memorial show for the late hip-hop artist Martse as an example of a successful monetization strategy. Attendees were allowed to pay at the door, which Tarz described as an effective way to support their efforts. In contrast, Tarz pointed out that events like the memorial show for the late dancehall artist Mafunyeta are consistently organized for free, indicating significant missed opportunities for revenue. Tarz proposed that organizers consider charging fans a small fee to support the family and cover...

Jay Jay Cee Collaborates with Man Chi on New Single 'Wadongo

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Malawian musician Jay Jay Cee has released a brand new song titled "Wadongo", featuring his newly signed artist Man Chi. The song was produced at Jay Jay Cee's RAJ Nation studios and the music video was directed by Director Kante. This collaboration marks the second single from Jay Jay Cee this year, following the release of "Khuzumule" in January, which featured Waxy Kay and Chain oh abebu. The new single "Wadongo" is expected to make waves in the music scene, given Jay Jay Cee's reputation for producing hit songs. The addition of Man Chi's talent is likely to bring a fresh and exciting sound to the track. With the song's production and music video direction handled by reputable professionals, "Wadongo" is poised to be a high-quality release that will showcase the artistic skills of Jay Jay Cee and Man Chi. Fans of Jay Jay Cee and Malawian music enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the release of "Wadongo", which is exp...

Esther Chitheka Drops New Single 'Wafika' After Signing with Porch Time Records

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Gospel singer Esther Chitheka has released her first song of the year, titled " Wafika ", after being signed by Porch Time Records. The song, produced by Paul Kachala, was released on Friday morning alongside its music video. The music video has already received an overwhelming response from music lovers. Esther Chitheka, daughter of Apostle Enesia Chitheka, lead singer of the Chitheka Family, rose to fame in 2015 after being featured in Faith Musa's song "Desperate" (Reggae Remix). Esther Chitheka was also a lead singer in the popular music group "Zathu Band", which included renowned musicians like Theresa Phondo, Praise, Umali, Paul Kachala, Joe Kellz, and Nyokase Madise. In 2023, Esther, along with Nathaniel Chaluchalu and Taonga Kanthungo, reached the final stage of the Voice Africa competition, a platform for top vocal talent in Africa. With her new single " Wafika ", Esther Chitheka is set to make a mark in the music industry. Her talen...

Prime Time Company Donates K2 Million to Support Taygrin's Recovery

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Prime Time Company has made a generous donation of K2 million to support a music show organized to help recovering musician Taygrin. The show, scheduled for April 5th at BICC in Lilongwe, aims to raise funds to help Taygrin recover from a devastating fire that destroyed his house items. The music show, organized by fellow artists Lulu, Lawi Gwamba, Agide, Temwa, and Kell Kay, has received a significant boost from Prime Time Company's donation. The company's Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Kaunda, explained that the contribution includes K2 million, a car, and fuel to ensure a successful event. Kaunda emphasized the importance of companies supporting individuals in need, saying, "Companies must come to help someone during difficult times." The music show is a testament to the Malawian music community's spirit of camaraderie and support. The event is expected to bring together music lovers and fellow artists to support Taygrin's recovery. With Prime Time Compa...

Women Creatives Urged to Treat Art as Business

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Women creatives in Malawi have been encouraged to take their art seriously and treat it as a business. This call was made during a workshop in Blantyre, which aimed to empower female creatives with knowledge and skills to succeed in the industry. The workshop was part of a project on "Mainstreaming Gender Equality in Malawi's Cultural and Creative Sector." Facilitator Ezaius Mkandawire emphasized the importance of women artists taking their craft seriously and treating it as a business. Mkandawire noted that many participants were unaware of laws and instruments that protect their art, such as the Electronic Transactions and Cybersecurity Act. This knowledge gap exacerbates cases of gender-based violence in the culture and creative sector. The workshop empowered women creatives with knowledge on combating gender-based violence in the digital space. Book Publishers Association of Malawi (Bpam) President Maureen Masamba praised the workshop, saying it was timely and covered...

CSOs Petition President Chakwera Over Exclusion of Nahec Funding in National Budget

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Civil society organisations (CSOs) in the creative and heritage industries, including the National Arts and Heritage Council (Nahec) Taskforce, have petitioned President Lazarus Chakwera over the exclusion of Nahec funding in the 2025/26 National Budget. The petition, delivered to the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) in Lilongwe, calls for Chakwera's intervention to ensure the allocation of funds for Nahec's operationalisation. Nahec Taskforce vice-chairperson Japher Mussa presented the petition to Principal Secretary for Administration in OPC Maxwell Tsitsi. The petition highlights the importance of Nahec's implementation, which is at risk due to the lack of financial commitment from the government. Since its enactment in September 2024, stakeholders have been waiting for the government to provide necessary funding. The petition also expresses surprise that the Ministry of Finance has not followed through on President Chakwera's previous commitments to support...

Macra Urges Creatives to Leverage Indigenous Platforms for Content Monetisation

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Daudi Suleman, Director General of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (Macra), has encouraged creatives to prioritize indigenous platforms for local content monetisation. This move aims to reduce reliance on global tech giants like YouTube and Facebook. Suleman made these remarks during a meeting with representatives from the creative sector in Lilongwe. He highlighted challenges affecting the local creative industry's ability to benefit from global platforms, including low internet connectivity and widespread digital illiteracy. These factors limit Malawi's eligibility for direct monetisation opportunities offered by big tech companies. Suleman noted that discussions with YouTube and Facebook are ongoing, but progress has been slow due to these challenges. Despite these hurdles, Suleman emphasized that global platforms can still help creatives grow their audience. However, the focus should be on leveraging these platforms to drive traffic to locally developed monet...

Fama Members at Odds Over Registration Proposal

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A disagreement has erupted among Film Association of Malawi (Fama) members over a proposal to register the association under the Companies Act, 2013. Currently, Fama operates without formal registration, and the leadership believes this has hindered the organization's ability to fulfill its mandate. Fama president Dorothy Kingston explained that registering under the Companies Act is a temporary measure while they await incorporation under the Trustees Act. Kingston emphasized that this is an internal matter that will be resolved among members, with only a few misunderstandings to be addressed. However, not all members are convinced. Actress-cum-filmmaker Flora Suya expressed concerns that registering as a limited company under the Companies Act could result in lost funding opportunities from government and international organizations. Suya urged the executive to provide adequate sensitization and not rush the decision. Seasoned filmmaker Charles Shemu Joyah took a more neutral sta...

Media Personality Priscilla Kayira Nsane Reveals Brain Infection Diagnosis

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Media personality and socialite Priscilla Kayira Nsane has shared a shocking revelation about her health, disclosing that she has been diagnosed with a serious brain infection. The infection, known as Neurocysticercosis, was discovered during a routine medical examination after an accident left her with head injuries. Kayira Nsane took to X, formerly Twitter, to share the news, expressing her alarm and relief that the infection was caught early. She had not yet experienced any side effects, which is a huge blessing. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Neurocysticercosis is a parasitic infection of the central nervous system and a leading cause of epilepsy worldwide. It is caused by the pork tapeworm Taenia solium and can be contracted through consuming undercooked pork, drinking contaminated water, or poor hygiene practices. Kayira Nsane's diagnosis serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing one's health. She urged her followers to take their hea...

Diktator and Isu Make Triumphant Return to Urban Music Scene with 'Ndabweranso' Remix

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After a lengthy hiatus, hip-hop artists Diktator and Isu have made a comeback with a new remix of IKK's track "Ndabweranso." This exciting collaboration features a star-studded lineup, including Hyphen, BeeJay, Daredevilz, Blak Jak, Barry One, Base Cube, and Mafo. Isu, who rose to fame with the song "Gifted Swag" in 2012, has been inactive in music for over a decade. Diktator also took a break, although he attempted a comeback in 2022 with the tracks "Kunyapa" and "Lekeni." The remix of "Ndabweranso" marks a significant return for both artists, captivating fans old and new. Their passion for music has been rekindled, and their return has sparked new interest in their work. The original version of "Ndabweranso" by IKK, featuring Mafo and GD, was released last August. However, the video sparked controversy among online viewers, with some criticizing the models used in the video. The remix, produced by Martin Angels, features...

Pastor Mlaka Maliro Makes Stunning U-Turn, Releases Song Praising President Chakwera

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Pastor Mlaka Maliro, a musician known for criticizing President Lazarus Chakwera's administration, has surprisingly released a new song praising the president. His previous songs, "Si Uyu" and "Vinyo Watha," contained scathing lyrics aimed at President Chakwera and former Vice President Saulos Chilima. However, in his latest release, "Tidzamuvotera," Maliro encourages people to vote for Chakwera in the upcoming polls. The song's lyrics are a far cry from Maliro's previous criticism, with the musician now praising Chakwera as the "right man" for the position. Maliro has announced a social media challenge to promote his new song, offering over K2 million to TikTokers who participate. However, this move has been met with criticism, with some accusing Maliro of trying to buy popularity. Maliro's sudden change of heart has raised eyebrows, with many wondering what prompted the Balaka-based musician to shift his allegiance. While some h...

JB's 'Mavyete Malawi Food Relief' Raises K19.9 Million for Maize Donation

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JB's non-political initiative, "Mavyete Malawi Food Relief," has successfully raised K19,950,000 to donate maize in Malawi amid the country's economic challenges. The funds were contributed by over 80 citizens in the diaspora, mainly from America. Musician and social media influencer JB announced the achievement on his Facebook page, listing the names of contributors. Mac Zakulanda and an anonymous individual were the top donors, each contributing $250 (approximately K1 million). JB expressed his gratitude to all contributors during a live session, assuring the public that maize distribution will take place before the end of the month in hunger-stricken areas. He also emphasized their ongoing efforts to secure affordable maize. JB urged Malawians to appreciate the sacrifices made by contributors, who are working hard in America to support their families back home. He emphasized the importance of wisely managing resources sent from abroad. The initiative aims to provid...

Star Wargon Drops New Single 'PA Chest' Featuring Kay Stevoh

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Dancehall artist Star Wargon has released his latest single, "PA Chest," featuring Kay Stevoh. The song is a heartfelt expression of love, likening a man's devotion to a river that flows endlessly for the woman he loves. This collaboration marks Wargon's second team-up with Kay Stevoh, following their successful 2017 track "Thamanga." Wargon produced the beat for "PA Chest" and invited Kay Stevoh to contribute the hook. The song's production features a talented team, including Kaluchi, Ras L, and Wenasi Beats. The music video, directed by Lang K, brings the song's narrative to life, showcasing the emotional depth of the lyrics. Wargon's music journey began in 2013, and since then, he has captivated fans with his resonant lyrics. His upcoming EP promises a diverse range of musical styles, and "PA Chest" is just the beginning. With "PA Chest" now available, listeners can immerse themselves in a touching story of love t...

Malawi Writers Union Launches Short Story Competition

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The Malawi Writers Union (Mawu) has introduced a short story competition aimed at promoting reading and writing culture in the country. This development comes after the union announced its board of trustees, led by renowned writer Lawrence Kadzitche. According to Mawu, the competition is open to all Malawian writers, both within the country and in the diaspora. The competition features two categories: one for secondary school students and another for all Malawian writers. The theme of the competition is "Art and Mental Health," and the winner will receive a cash prize of K1 million. The second and third-place winners will receive K750,000 and K350,000, respectively. In the secondary school category, the winner will receive K300,000, while the second and third-place winners will receive K200,000 and K100,000, respectively. The winning stories will be included in an anthology. Mawu President Shadreck Chikoti emphasized that the competition aims to promote writing and reading, s...

Jacaranda School for Orphans Stages Impressive Production of The Lion King Musical

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Jacaranda School for Orphans in Chigumula, Blantyre, successfully staged its first musical, The Lion King Musical, on Friday. The production was the culmination of a six-month rehearsal period, during which the students interacted virtually with UK-based actor Owen Chaponda. The musical, directed by Frank Naligonje and Annemarie Quinn, featured a cast of over 100 students and attracted a large audience, including teachers, parents, and guardians. Students, teachers, and parents from Ridley College in Canada also attended the event. The Lion King Musical tells the story of a young cub Simba, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery to become king of the Pride Lands. The production was well-received, with the audience praising the blend of music, drama, and dance. The school's founder, Marie Da Silva, was overwhelmed with emotion, stating that the performance was "out of this world." She expressed her desire to take the production on tour, resources permitting, and challe...