Malawi: Music Union of Malawi (MUM) will join the rest of the world to commemorate World Music Day in Lilongwe. The event will be hosted on August 29, after it was postponed to honor the death of Vice President Saulos Chilima.
The event seeks to celebrate music and its associated significance for the people of the island. The officials have shared that the general secretary of Music Union of Malawi spoke to the media regarding the event.
General Secretary, Tonney Chitimatima informed the media said that that the celebrations were supposed to take place on June 21, 2024. But they were rescheduled to August 29, 2024 as a mark of respect and solidarity during the 21 days mourning period for the death of Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima.
He was accompanying eight other members of the government in his delegation.
“The postponement was necessary, in line with honouring the memory of those we have lost and to allow the nation to grieve appropriately,” he said.
Chitimatima added that, “This is the day for all musicians and all music fans; therefore, all of them are welcome to this event and are requested to support us both financially, technically or through guidance,” he said.
MUM President, Vita Chirwa disclosed that the commemoration would commence with a vibrant and colourful parade in the streets of the Capital City celebrating the influence of music to bring people together.
“The parade will be followed by a big free outdoor concert featuring a variety of exciting musical performances,” he stated.
A Seasoned music promoter, Jai Banda said celebrating World Music Day was a step in the right direction by recognizing the contribution of music to peoples lives.
“I wish this couldve started way back. The power of music to human beings cannot be underestimated since it impacts in every aspect of life, be it in times of sorrow or joy,” he wished.
World Music Day is a global event and is celebrated on June 21 annually.
However, this will be the first time for Malawi to celebrate this day under the theme: “Harmony in diversity: celebrating the unifying power of music.”