By Sam Banda Jnr:
Lake of Stars Festival (LoS) makes its return in September this year after being out of the limelight for some time.
Dubbed ‘Lake of Stars Reactivated’, the festival returns in what the organisers have said is a grand style marking its 20th anniversary as well as celebrating 60 years of Malawi’s Independence.
The festival was expected to make a comeback last year, but it was postponed.
LoS which has contributed immensely to the advancement of arts and culture as well tourism in the country will run from September 6 to 8 2024.
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In a press statement, the organisers say the festival, will take place along the pristine beaches of Lake Malawi but have not mentioned the venue.
LoS Head of Media, Public Relations and Relationships, Zilanie Gondwe could not be drawn to say much on the development.
“Surprises are plenty this year. People should just save the date for now,” Gondwe said of the festival, which was birthed at Chintheche Inn in Nkhata Bay and founded by Will Jameson in 2004.
Gondwe added: “Lake of Stars has been held across the lakeshore districts in ever changing venues and 2024 brings attention to a brand-new site”.
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Some of the venues that have hosted Lake of Stars include Kabumba Hotel in Salima, Sunbird Nkopola in Mangochi, Chintheche Inn in Nkhata Bay and Kachere Castle in Nkhata Bay.
Since it started running its affairs, the festival which has rotated, has featured some of the best and diverse artists from Malawi and around the world.
The statement says over the past two decades, the festival has provided a global stage for Malawian artists, showcasing their talents to an international audience as well as fostering cultural exchange.
“This year’s festivities hold special significance as they align with the commemoration of Malawi’s 60th year of independence. The festival will serve as a platform to not only celebrate artistic expression, but also to honour the rich history and cultural heritage of the nation,” reads the statement.
Director of Arts in the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture Humphrey Mpondaminga has since welcomed the return of the festival.
“Nothing brings people together like a joyous cultural festival with a united purpose. We are excited to reactivate the spectacular and globally renowned Malawi festival that has contributed significantly to tourism and festival culture,” Mpondaminga said.
Some of the artists that have performed at the festival include South Africa’s Freshlyground, Zimbabwe’s Oliver Mtukudzi and Mookomba and Kenya’s Sauti Sol.
