The National Youth Summit was more than just a forum for high-level discussions and youth reflections on keynote speeches—it was a celebration of Malawi’s dynamic creative sector. In 2022, the creative industry contributed an impressive 28 billion kwacha to the nation’s GDP, serving as a vital source of employment and foreign exchange. Recognizing this impact, the summit highlighted the essential role of arts and culture in advancing Malawi’s development agenda and achieving the MW2063 vision.

The opening session set the tone for this creative celebration with a performance of the summit’s theme song, Tiyikokere by Nyokase and Amidu. The song’s message, urging Malawi’s youth to take the lead in shaping the nation’s future, resonated powerfully with the audience.

The second day brought the We Are Malawi Cultural Festival, a dynamic showcase of poetry, dance, visual arts, and music. The event highlighted Malawi’s rich cultural diversity and gave young creatives a platform to shine.

Among the standout performances was Tamba Africa, a circus act that wove intricate stories through acrobatics and dance, leaving the audience in awe. The Chingalire Cultural Troupe provided an immersive experience of Malawi’s traditional heritage, captivating the crowd with vibrant Beni, Mwinoghe, and other traditional dances.

The night’s climax came with a show-stopping 30-minute set by urban music sensation Fada Moti, whose electric performance left the crowd clamoring for more.

Emerging artists also took the stage, adding depth and variety to the festival. Mtameni and his band, The Luma, introduced a fresh blend of R&B and folk-inspired melodies, while the Soul Jive Band delivered a dazzling closing performance that cemented their reputation as a rising force in Malawi’s music scene.

We were also honoured to have a cameo appearance from the Special Advisor to the President on Creative Industries and renowned Poet Q Malewezi.

As the National Youth Summit drew to a close, it was clear that this year’s gathering had gone beyond dialogue and discussion. By shining a spotlight on the creative economy, the summit not only celebrated Malawi’s artistic talent but also highlighted the potential of the arts to drive national unity and economic growth.