Chakwera honors Malawian artists

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-President Lazarus on Thursday night, July 31, 2025 paid tribute to local artists by hosting them to dinner at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe, where the Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA) handed over royalties, that the diverse pool of talent has earned over the years.

COSOMA has been disbursing MK1.5 billion in royalties to artists and authors for works reproduced between April 2024 and March 2025, under what is referred to as the blank media levy system.

The “Chakwera Arts Stars” Dinner – a first of its kind – brought together various artists from the music, poetry, literary and performing arts industries and seeks to nurture and promote Malawian talent.

Minister of Local Government and Culture, Hon Richard Chimwendo Banda applauded the President for demonstrating a commitment to boosting the arts industry promoting the country’s culture.

Some of the artists recognized include gospel artist Miracle Chinga; Eli Njuchi; Duncan Zgambo also known as Gwamba; Saint, Jetu, Malinga Mafia, Giddes Chalamanda – who spiced up the evening with a live performance and Driemo among others.

President Chakwera accompanied by the First Lady Madam Monica Chakwera, also honoured Malawian artists who left an indelible mark in the arts industry posthumously including Veteran musicians Lucious Banda and Wambali Mkandawire, as well as legendary comedy duo Eric Mabedi and John Nyanga.

The Chakwera Arts Stars is expected to be an annual event.

Lloyd M’bwana

I’m a Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resource (LUANAR)’s Environmental Science graduate (Malawi) and UK’s ICM Journalism and Media studies scholar. Also University of Malawi (UNIMA) Library Science Scholar. I have been The Malawi Country Manager and duty editor for the Maravi Post since 2019. My duty editor’s job is to ensure that the news is covered properly, that it is delivered on time, and that it is created to the standards set out in the editorial guidelines of the Maravi Post.