By Sam Banda Jnr & Jimmy Chazama
The second edition of Kumbali Music concert will be held on Saturday at Kumbali Country Lodge in Lilongwe, with music lovers set to be treated to local vibes and sounds from South Africa.
The concert, which debuted last year, was a success as it saw local acts Lawi and George Kalukusha sharing the stage with South African singer, performer and songwriter Ami Faku.
The second edition also promises good sounds featuring, once again, Lawi and Kalukusha, who will be coming face to face with South African musician Simmy.
The lineup also has singer and guitarist Praise Umali and Eli Njuchi.
“We are ready and will continue from where we left off last year. All I can say is that people should come in large numbers because we will not disappoint them,” Lawi, who is working on a new album, said.
Lawi, who is also one of organisers of the concert, highlighted the concert’s significance, saying it is a platform that “lets foreign musicians see the talent in Malawian artists”.
He said he was looking forward to sharing the stage with Simmy as well as other local acts.
“Simmy is expected to jet into the country on Firday through Kamuzu International Airport,” the ‘Phukira’ creator said.
Lawi applauded Standard Bank plc for adding Eli Njuchi and Praise Umali to the lineup. “It is all about giving young artists a chance to showcase what they have,” he said.
Praise Umali of the ‘Ku Tiyeni’ fame said he was ready for the concert.
“People should come and enjoy live music; it is more than a party,” he said.
Standard Bank plc, as the main sponsor, has pumped K40 million in this year’s event.
The bank recently reiterated its commitment to supporting the creative sector.
Head of brand and marketing Tamanda Ng’ombe said this year’s support builds on the success of the previous edition.
“As a title sponsor for Kumbali Live, we are excited to build on the previous success and deliver an exceptional musical experience that profiles both local and international talent,” she said.
Ng’ombe said they believed in the power of the arts, music and culture to create jobs, engage the youth and profile Malawi.
She said further said Standard Bank was investing in the creative sector under the theme ‘Joy of the Arts’, which focuses on building capacity within the industries and celebration as the bank clocks 55 years in Malawi.
“This year, we celebrate 55 years of Standard Bank in Malawi and we are committed to ensuring that everyone celebrates with us. Joy of the Arts is our way to engaging the wider community in an industry that brings joy, embodies celebration and shines a light on Malawi,” Ng’ombe said.
Kumbali Lodge General Manager Ian D’heygere said this year’s concert had an exciting lineup of local and international musicians, offering a platform where cultures interact for a common goal.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Standard Bank for this year’s Kumbali Live Festival,” he said.
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