Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting arts festivals through policies and programs that nurture creativity both locally and internationally.
Director of the National Records and Archives Services, Dr. Paul Lihoma, made the remarks during the opening of the three-day Zomba City Arts Festival in Zomba which runs from 1 May to 3 May.
Lihoma said government recognises culture as a key pillar of national development as well as a driver of tourism.
“When we invest in culture, we invest in people. We also preserve our heritage and strengthen the future of Malawi. This is why the government supports events such as city arts festivals,” he said.
Co-founder of the Zomba City Arts Festival, Laura Shuerwegen, highlighted the impact the festival has had since its inception in 2021 after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Shuerwegen encouraged local artists to actively participate in such events, emphasising the role the festival has played in promoting Zomba City as a tourism destination.
The Zomba City Arts Festival is an annual event that brings together both local and international artists, offering entertainment and cultural experiences for people of all ages.
