By Burnett Munthali
In what has become a much-talked-about moment in Malawian politics, a performance referred to as “National Anthem Ladies and Gentlemen, Wabetcha Loya APM” has captured the public’s attention, sparking conversation across social media platforms. The phrase appears to have been used during a public event in which the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) once again showcased its flair for unconventional performances.
The incident, which occurred during a gathering of DPP supporters, seems to have centered on an individual — referred to as “Loya” — who delivered a dramatic and patriotic rendition of the national anthem, quickly catching the attention of the public. “Wabetcha,” which loosely translates to “you’ve guessed it right” in Chichewa, points to the rhetorical flair that often accompanies political theatrics in Malawi. The name “APM,” associated with former President Arthur Peter Mutharika, suggests that this moment was linked to a DPP event with a focus on the party’s former leader.
While the full context of the performance remains somewhat unclear, what has become evident is that the DPP continues to display its knack for producing memorable public moments. As I observed from social media conversations, the phrase “Koma ku DPP kuli ma talent” – “There’s real talent in the DPP” – has been repeated several times, underscoring the sense that the party often delivers notable and creative performances, whether through speeches, music, or other forms of political entertainment.
It is not the first time that the DPP has combined political gatherings with theatrical displays that border on entertainment. The combination of political messaging and performance art has long been a part of Malawi’s political culture, and it seems the DPP is keen on leveraging this approach to engage its base.
However, this incident has also sparked some criticism. Some observers question whether such displays are an effective means of addressing the party’s current challenges or whether they simply serve as distractions from more substantive political issues. Others argue that such performances inject a needed sense of energy into political events, helping the party maintain visibility and relevance, especially in a time of transition.
One thing is clear: this recent performance has struck a chord with both DPP supporters and political analysts alike. As the party continues to rebuild its image following its loss in the 2020 elections, moments like these reflect the party’s persistent spirit and creativity. While some may view it as mere theatrics, others see it as a demonstration of the cultural and performative talents that have long been a part of Malawian politics.
As we watch how the DPP continues to navigate its future, one can only wonder what other talents the party will bring to the forefront. Whether through political rhetoric or entertainment, it’s clear that the DPP still knows how to captivate an audience.
For now, Malawians will keep an eye on the party’s next move, particularly as it continues to make waves in both political and cultural arenas.
Burnett Munthali is a political analyst and journalist, reporting on Malawian politics and the intersection of culture and entertainment.
Youth empowerment in action: Judith Msusa applauds success of Business Acceleration for Youth Project By Burnett Munthali, November The Director of Youth in the Ministry of Youth, Judith Msusa, has expressed her satisfaction with the impact of the Business Acceleration for Youth (BAY) project, describing it as a transformative initiative for empowering Malawian youth economically. Msusa commended the project during a visit to some grant beneficiaries who have successfully turned their ventures into thriving enterprises. Speaking during her visit, Msusa lauded the program for equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to enhance their livelihoods. "The government is impressed with the youth who, through this initiative, have been able to increase their revenue streams. This not only enables them to live decent lives but also positions them as job creators for their peers," she said. Msusa emphasized the project's role in fostering a generation of self-reliant, innovative, and economically active young people. Adding to Msusa's sentiments, David Slane, Chief of Party for the project, expressed his own delight at the progress made. "It’s rewarding to see these young individuals demonstrating tangible successes as a result of this support. They are living proof of what is possible when young people are given the right opportunities and resources," said Slane. The three-year BAY project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is being implemented by the Alliance of Biodiversity International and the Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT). Focused on the districts of Zomba, Balaka, Chiradzulu, Chikwawa, Machinga, and Mangochi, the project aims to nurture the entrepreneurial spirit among youth by providing grants, mentorship, and technical assistance. During the visit, several beneficiaries shared their inspiring stories of transformation. One of them, a poultry farmer from Mangochi, recounted how the project’s financial and technical support helped her scale her business, enabling her to employ two additional workers. Another young entrepreneur in Zomba, specializing in agro-processing, highlighted how mentorship from the project helped him navigate market challenges and significantly increase his revenue. These testimonials reflect the project's profound impact on communities. Beyond financial gains, the BAY initiative is helping youth build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, all of which are critical for sustaining long-term economic growth. As Malawi grapples with high unemployment rates among the youth, the BAY project stands out as a beacon of hope. With continued support from USAID and partners, the initiative could serve as a model for youth empowerment not only in Malawi but across the region. Msusa’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting programs that align with its broader vision of reducing poverty and unemployment. "The youth are the backbone of our nation," Msusa concluded. "Projects like BAY remind us of their untapped potential and the immense possibilities that emerge when we invest in them strategically." The success of the BAY project serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between government, development partners, and the private sector in addressing pressing societal challenges.
