SandFest to honour Wambali

Impakt Events Management, organisers of the Sand Music Festival, has unveiled plans to honour afro-centric musician Wambali Mkandawire this year.

Among other things, Impakt Events will name their main stage at this year’s Sand Music Festival at Sunbird Nkopola after the fallen local music icon.

Impakt Events director and SandFest founder Lucius Banda said that this past year Malawi has lost many legends, including Wambali.

“Wambali was a great friend of the festival and had been, since its inception. For us as a festival, Wambali’s influence transcended the industry and his impact continues to be felt across the musical spectrum,” he said.

Banda said performing artists at the festival will have a rare opportunity to offer Wambali a deserved farewell as many were unable to join his family celebrate his life during his memorial due to Covid-19 public gathering restrictions.

The main stage during the 11th edition of the festival slated for October 1 to 3 will be called The Wambali Stage.

Banda said it is only right to honour Wambali this way as a man, musician and legend who understood the vision and always supported the Malawian festival.

A press release from SandFest reads: “Over many years, Wambali inspired, motivated and delivered constructive criticism as required. He did the same with many other aspiring artists throughout his musical journey.”

In a seperate interview, the fallen artist’s manager Engineer Vitumbiko Mumba welcomed the initiative.

He said the family of Wambali has no problem with the recognition that SandFest has prepared.

Art and entertainment commentator Wonderful Mkhutche said knowing what and who Wambali was, the move by Impakt Events is an honourable gesture.

“It will help people reflect on his life. However, we need more. The memory of Wambali must not only start and end at the festival,” he said.

Wambali’s music earned him respect and credibility amongst musical peers synonymous with the status of legend.