Malawi: Sauti Sol Set to Headline Lilongwe's Kumbali Live Music Concert

What the report says

Malawi’s Kumbali Live Music Concert is preparing for its fourth edition in Lilongwe with Kenyan singer Bien-Aimé Alusa Baraza, known professionally as Bien and widely recognized as a member of Sauti Sol, set to headline. The event is scheduled for 25 October and will also feature Malawian performers Driemo, Praise Umali and Maggie Kadrum, according to the report distributed by AllAfrica from Nyasa Times.

Organizers say the concert is being supported by Standard Bank Plc through its Joy of the Arts initiative, which is meant to encourage Malawi’s creative sector. Standard Bank’s head of brand and marketing, Tamanda Ng’ombe, said the sponsorship reflects the bank’s commitment to the arts and to giving local musicians a larger platform alongside international acts.

This year’s edition is also expected to add a second stage for emerging and lesser-known performers. Co-producer George Kalukusha said that space is intended to highlight background artists who seldom appear before large audiences, including Sangwani Kaunda, Isabel King and Nathaniel Chaluchalu.

Event coordinator Ian D’heygere said the concert has grown into an important showcase for pairing Malawian talent with regional and international stars. More broadly, music festivals like this often serve both entertainment and industry-building roles by giving local artists visibility and attracting sponsorship, though the article does not provide attendance targets or financial details.