The Rhythms of Rain Forest Festival which was held at Ntchisi Forest Lodge last weekend is reported to have suffered a setback as not many locals attended.
One of the organisers of the festival which is yet to gain ground, Menes la Plume, confirmed the development.
He said the festival was targeting all people including locals.
“This festival is unique in that it happens in the only remaining large rain forest in the country. The festival went on well last weekend with very good vibes, lineup and unique setting. The audience that attended was beyond our expectation but not many locals came and this was disappointing,” said Menes, who also performed.
He said the festival gives a chance to people to appreciate music in a different environment, revealing that people had time to climb a rock at sunset to see Nkhata Bay-based one-stringed guitar player Gasper Nali.
“The Rhythms of the Rain Forest Festival is an event that is supposed to attract the audience to the only remaining rain forest in the country so that they can raise awareness in terms of its protection. As I have said, I am sad because there were not many locals,” Menes said.
He said despite this setback, the festival will continue to run annually and that they were hoping that the situation will improve next year.
Apart from Nali, who has stunned people with his sounds and last year also performed at Lake of Stars Festival, the other artists who performed at the festival include ethno-musician Waliko Makhala, Rebecca Mwalwenje, Mbanaye and Amahoro Drummers from Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa.
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