Mafatale Memorial Show venue, dates won’t change
Black Missionaries Band, organisers of the annual Evison Matafale Memorial Show, have said that despite concerns about holding the event in November on an open ground, the status quo will remain the same.
Black Missionaries Band leader Anjiru Fumulani said in an interview that since last year’s memorial was marred by heavy rains, fans and band members have suggested a change of the dates of the event to avoid rains ruining the show.
“But after consulting our fans using various means such as during shows and the social media, it is clear that the majority is not willing to change the dates and venue,” he said.
Fumulani said many fans feel if the dates are changed, it will dilute the idea behind the show.
“Matafale Memorial Show is meant to remember the fallen reggae artist and to honour his legacy in a typical Matafale way. So, holding a free show on an open ground during the month that he was born and died will remain the same,” said the Blacks front man.
He indicated that what they are doing as a band is to strengthen the type of stage they use to ensure that even in the face of strong rains and winds, they should not stop the show as fans don’t mind dancing in the rain.
Fumulani said this year they will hold the show at the usual venue and are looking forward to the event.
The Blacks have traditionally hosted the event at Mankhokwe Ground in Chileka, Blantyre.
Commenting on the matter, reggae music fan Lloyd Kaphatengo from Ndirande said the event is slowly losing its touch as it is usually affected by rains.
However, another fan Gertrude Kabwazi, a Ndirande resident, said the memorial show should not be changed.
“It is the thought that counts. Matafale died in November. His memorial show should always be held in November,” she said.
Born on November 20 1969, Evison Matafale died on November 27 2001 aged of 32 while in police custody. He had two albums to his credit; Kuimba 1 and Kuimba 2.
Some of his hit songs include Yang’ana Nkhope, Watsetsereka, Olakwa Ndani and Nkhawa Bii.
