For united we stand, divided we fall, and if our backs should ever be against the wall, we’ll be together, together, you and I…. – January 1970; Tony Hiller and Peter Simons (Brotherhood of Man band

This month of July, Malawi celebrated 61 years of independence from colonial rule; 61 years of national sovereignty. We also celebrate 31 years as a democratic nation. As a member of the senior citizens of our land of the Lake, truth be told, I miss unity that was a celebrated principle of all Malawians. I miss the respect youth gave to all adults – even those that were not related to. Most of all, I miss the fear mixed with love and respect all Malawians had for political leaders, so much so this value system is in out national anthem:

…Join together all our hearts as one, that we be free from fear. Bless our leader, each and every one, and Mother Malawi. (source: https://www.lyricsondemand.com/n/nationalanthemlyrics/malawinationalanthemlyrics.html)

These days, the country’s citizenship has, in these days of democratic freedom, made a complete turnaround, to the horrible opposite of the values we held dear. Leaders are no longer feared, respected, nor loved. Adults, even those from one’s family, are no longer respected. And there is no unity, not even at political party levels. O Malawi! My Malawi, what has become of you?

In the absence of unity, our walls in whatever we attempt to do, come tumbling down. The enemies from within the country and from outside the country come in like a flood, and sweep the whole lot of us under the proverbial bus. There were times in yesteryears, one would be walking down a street in Harare or London, and hear someone speaking in Chichewa or Tumbuka, faces would brighten up and exchanges of contacts made. At the village level, helping thy neighbor was a natural thing that has gone out the window.

In the absence of respect for elders, it is sad to see young children or youth disrespecting an elder rampant is such disrespect that many young people look and have accused elders in their villages of being witches; some have sadly been murdered on this baseless score). At school the situation is that chiding a scholar that is not your student is risky since scholars have been known to be rude to teachers. Sadly, this behavior is in other countries as well, not just Malawi.

No fear mixed with respect and love for our leaders, is causing society to raise up disrespectful children, causing the country to have disgruntled I-don’t-care-type of leaders that then commit all manner of behaviors that disqualifies them for continuity in leadership positions; or some tread on for the love of country, in desperate attempt to keep Malawi flame burning.

It has been hard to wipe away from my patriotism, respect to all our leaders, the AI-generated picture on social media of former President Peter Mutharika, or the day Ndirande youth chanted “Yakuba! Yakuba! Yakuba!” as former Vice President (now late) Saulos Chilima, or unsubstantiated articles of former President Joyce Banda, demeaning ones of former President Muluzi. Current President Lazarus Chakwera, is the favorite punching bag, and has not escaped the ridicule in articles and on social media.

I miss the time when campaigning during elections, the country was cautioned against mud-slinging. But as a nation, Malawians have become expert mud-slingers, it is an artform. If mud-slinging was a paid-for activity, Malawi would be a rich nation.

I miss the time when being Malawian meant we were the friendly Warm Heart of Africa, all in unison, respectful, fearful, and loving of all of our leaders, with a healthy dash of respect: all these whether or not one belongs to their political party. Our bonding must be that we are aMalawi, land of the stars on the Lake.

 O God bless our land of Malawi!

Malawi recently marked 61 years of independence, a milestone that should have been a moment of national pride and unity.

However, the conclusion of the celebrations was marred by disappointment as the national football team, the Flames, faced a crushing defeat against Botswana in a penalty shootout, losing 3-0.

This outcome is not an isolated incident; it reflects a troubling trend where the culmination of Malawi’s independence celebrations has been overshadowed by the national team’s failures on the football pitch. For the past five years, the end of these celebrations has been marked by sadness rather than joy, prompting a critical examination of how Malawi can revitalize its Independence Day festivities.

The significance of Independence Day in Malawi cannot be overstated.

It is a day that commemorates the hard-fought struggle for freedom from colonial rule, a day that should inspire national pride and unity.

However, the recent trend of concluding these celebrations with football matches that end in disappointment raises questions about the appropriateness of this tradition.

Football, while a beloved sport in Malawi, has not delivered the expected joy during these celebrations. Instead, it has become a source of frustration and disillusionment for fans and citizens alike.

The Flames’ performance in recent years has been inconsistent, and their inability to secure victories during such significant national events has led to a growing sentiment that perhaps it is time to rethink the role of football in Independence Day celebrations.

The emotional investment that Malawians place in their national team is immense, and when the team fails to deliver, it can cast a shadow over the entire celebration.

The disappointment felt by fans is palpable, and it often overshadows the true meaning of the day.

In light of this, it may be prudent for Malawi to consider alternative forms of entertainment and celebration that can foster a sense of national pride without the risk of disappointment.

One compelling option is to bring in international musicians to perform during the Independence Day celebrations. Music has a unique ability to unite people, transcend cultural barriers, and evoke feelings of joy and celebration.

By featuring renowned international artists, Malawi could create an atmosphere of festivity that uplifts the spirits of its citizens and allows them to celebrate their independence in a more positive light.

The idea of incorporating international musicians into Independence Day celebrations is not without precedent. Many countries around the world have successfully used music festivals and concerts as a means of celebrating national holidays.

These events often draw large crowds, create a sense of community, and provide a platform for cultural exchange.

For Malawi, this could be an opportunity to showcase its rich musical heritage while also inviting global talent to share the stage.

Imagine a vibrant concert featuring both local and international artists, where Malawians can come together to celebrate their independence through music and dance.

Such an event would not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of unity and pride among citizens. It would allow people to celebrate their identity and heritage while also embracing the diversity of global music.

Moreover, the inclusion of international musicians could attract tourism and generate economic benefits for the country.

Music festivals often draw visitors from neighboring countries and beyond, providing a boost to local businesses and the hospitality industry. This could be particularly beneficial for Malawi, which has immense potential for tourism but often struggles to attract visitors.

By positioning Independence Day as a vibrant cultural event, Malawi could enhance its international profile and create new opportunities for economic growth.

Additionally, the emotional impact of music should not be underestimated. Music has the power to evoke strong feelings and create lasting memories. By replacing the football match with a concert, Malawi could ensure that the conclusion of its Independence Day celebrations is marked by joy and positivity rather than disappointment.

The collective experience of enjoying live music can create a sense of belonging and community, reinforcing the values of unity and togetherness that are central to the spirit of independence.

Critics may argue that football is an integral part of Malawi’s culture and that it should remain a focal point of Independence Day celebrations.

While it is true that football holds a special place in the hearts of many Malawians, it is essential to recognize that the current approach has not yielded the desired outcomes.

The emotional toll of repeated disappointments can lead to apathy and disillusionment among fans, which ultimately detracts from the spirit of celebration.

Furthermore, the focus on football can inadvertently exclude those who may not be as passionate about the sport. Independence Day should be a celebration for all Malawians, regardless of their interests.

By diversifying the types of activities and entertainment offered, the celebrations can become more inclusive and representative of the diverse interests and talents within the country.

Malawi’s Independence Day celebrations should evolve to reflect the aspirations and sentiments of its citizens.

The recent trend of concluding these celebrations with football matches that end in disappointment has highlighted the need for change.

By substituting football games with international music performances, Malawi can create a more uplifting and inclusive atmosphere that fosters national pride and unity.

Music has the power to transcend boundaries, evoke joy, and create lasting memories. By embracing this art form, Malawi can revitalize its Independence Day celebrations and ensure that they are marked by positivity and celebration rather than disappointment.

It is time for Malawi to rethink its approach to Independence Day and embrace the potential of music to bring its people together in a joyous celebration of freedom and identity.

The future of Malawi’s Independence Day celebrations lies in the hands of its leaders and citizens, and it is an opportunity that should not be missed.