By Jones Gadama
April 15, 2025, marks World Art Day, and Malawi has joined the global community in commemorating this significant day.
Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Joyce Chitsulo, emphasized the importance of art in shaping the nation’s culture during a press briefing in Lilongwe.
According to Chitsulo, art plays a vital role in influencing international diplomacy, promoting education systems, global trade, and development of local communities.
“Art is not just a form of creative expression, but also a powerful tool that can bring people together, promote cultural understanding, and contribute to the country’s economic development,” Chitsulo said.
She urged Malawians to value and care for art, recognizing its significance in shaping the nation’s identity.
The Deputy Minister’s sentiments were echoed by Director of Arts in the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Humphrey Mpondaminga. Mpondaminga expressed the government’s continued support for protecting art and ensuring that artists benefit from their work.
One way the government is preserving art is through the Copyright Society of Malawi, which safeguards intellectual property rights and promotes creativity.
Art has been an integral part of Malawi’s culture, with various forms of expression, including music, dance, and visual arts.
The Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture recognizes the importance of art in promoting cultural diversity and national identity.
By supporting art initiatives, the government aims to create opportunities for artists to showcase their talents, both locally and internationally.
Chitsulo’s call to action emphasizes the need for Malawians to appreciate and value art, not just as a form of entertainment, but also as a vital component of the country’s cultural heritage.
By doing so, the nation can harness the power of art to promote cultural exchange, understanding, and economic growth.
The Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture is committed to creating an enabling environment for artists to thrive.
Through initiatives like the Copyright Society of Malawi, the government is working to protect intellectual property rights and promote creativity.
This support will enable artists to benefit from their work, encouraging innovation and artistic expression.
Mpondaminga highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government, artists, and stakeholders in promoting art and culture.
By working together, Malawi can develop a vibrant art scene that showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and contributes to its economic development.
As Malawi commemorates World Art Day, the government and stakeholders are urged to continue supporting art initiatives and promoting cultural expression.
By valuing and caring for art, Malawians can harness its power to shape the nation’s identity, promote cultural understanding, and contribute to economic growth.
Joyce Chitsulo’s call to action serves as a reminder of the significance of art in Malawi’s development.
As the country moves forward, it is essential to prioritize art and culture, recognizing their vital role in shaping the nation’s identity and promoting economic growth.
The Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture is responsible for promoting local governance and participatory democracy, creating an enabling environment for socio-economic development and social stability.
By supporting art initiatives and promoting cultural expression, the Ministry aims to contribute to Malawi’s economic development and cultural diversity.
As the country continues to commemorate World Art Day, it is essential to recognize the importance of art in shaping the nation’s identity and promoting cultural understanding.
