By Jones Gadama
The Standard Bank–sponsored Association for the Teaching of English in Malawi (ATEM) National Drama Festival took a unique approach this year, using theatre to raise awareness about the growing issue of human trafficking in Malawi.
The festival, held at the Kamuzu Institute for Sports in Lilongwe, brought together 18 schools to showcase their talents and spread a crucial message.
ATEM president Davie Mpaso emphasized the importance of addressing human trafficking, a serious and pressing issue in Malawi.
“Young people are being lured with false promises and trafficked,” Mpaso said, adding that, “The aim is to raise public awareness that human trafficking is real, happening, and closer than many realize.”
Standard Bank’s Head of Brand and Marketing, Tamanda Ng’ombe, echoed Mpaso’s views, highlighting the bank’s support for the arts as part of Malawian culture.
“As a bank that employs Malawians, we understand the impact human trafficking can have, and we believe these conversations must happen—solutions must be found,” Ng’ombe said.
The two-day festival saw Lilongwe Girls Secondary School emerge victorious with a powerful drama performance, earning a K2 million cash prize.
Stella Maris Secondary School claimed second place, followed by St Maria Goretti in third. Chichiri Secondary and Kamuzu Barracks Secondary came in fourth and fifth respectively.
Presidential Advisor on Creative Industries, Qabaniso Malewezi, commended the corporate sector for supporting the arts in Malawi.
“Such partnerships are crucial for nurturing local talent and driving national conversations through creative expression,” Malewezi said.
The festival’s focus on human trafficking highlights the need for awareness and action. By using theatre as a platform, the ATEM National Drama Festival aims to educate the public and spark conversations about this critical issue.
The event demonstrates the power of art to drive social change and promote meaningful discussions.
Standard Bank’s sponsorship of the festival underscores its commitment to supporting the arts and addressing social issues.
The bank’s involvement in the festival showcases its dedication to promoting Malawian culture and driving positive change.
The ATEM National Drama Festival serves as a model for using art to raise awareness about important issues.
By harnessing the power of theatre, the festival provides a unique platform for young people to express themselves and contribute to national conversations.
As the festival comes to a close, its impact is expected to resonate beyond the stage, inspiring action and awareness about human trafficking in Malawi.
