President Lazarus Chakwera has reaffirmed his commitment to continue providing support and protection to artists in the country.
The President made the commitment during a special ceremony dubbed ‘Chakwera’s Arts Stars,’ held at the State House in Lilongwe.
The ceremony was a grand affair, with Chakwera honoring veteran artists like Paul Banda and Giddes Chalamanda.
Other notable artists, including the late DD Phiri, Izeki and Jacob, were also recognized for their contributions.
All the honoured artists received MK1 million each.
In addition, Chakwera presented cash awards to trending artists who have excelled in their craft.
The awards, sponsored by the Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA), included MK23.4 million for Eli Njuchi, MK10.3 million for Wikise and MK23.3 million for Driemo.
Addressing the gathering, Chakwera said that artists play a critical role in preserving cultural heritage hence pledging to continue rendering government support to them.
In an interview with MIJ Online, Richard Chimwendo Banda, Minister of Culture, has revealed government’s plans to start providing soft loans to artists through the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) in a bid to enhance and promote their work.
And on his part, COSOMA Chairperson Chimwemwe Mhango has hailed the government for its support and commitment to promoting the arts in the country.
Mhango has also pleaded with government to allocate special funds aimed at facilitating the commencement of ‘school of arts’ in the country.