When Emmanuel Harry stepped onto the stage at the Bingu International Convention Centre on Saturday, the roar of the crowd confirmed what he had dared to dream; his song “Njee” had just won the Amapiano category in the “Dolo Kwambiri Amavotera Chakwera” music competition.
For the young Lilongwe-based artist, the MK5 million prize is more than a windfall, it’s a game-changer.
“We had waited so long, and at some point, we thought it wouldn’t happen,” Harry said. “Now, I can finally build my studio. This is the breakthrough I needed.”
Launched in 2024 by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba, the “Dolo Kwambiri Amavotera Chakwera” initiative aimed to uncover and elevate musical talent across Malawi’s diverse soundscape.
With over 200 entries nationwide, the competition attracted musicians from across five genres: Amapiano, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Local, and Other.
The grand finale, graced by President Lazarus Chakwera and key government figures, marked not only the conclusion of a competitive journey but the beginning of many artistic careers.
Initially set to be decided by public vote, the competition shifted course in May 2025, handing final judgment to a professional panel, a move that boosted credibility and transparency in the eyes of many contestants.
Each winner walked away with MK5 million and national recognition:
● Amapiano: Emmanuel Harry – Njee
● Hip-Hop: Robison James – Dolo Kwambiri
● Local Music: Kidy Tseka
● Reggae: Aizeie Phenix
● Other Genres: Francis Kalambule & Foster Kaphala – Madolo Kwambiri
What united these artists wasn’t just musical talent, it was resilience. Many had struggled to record due to financial limitations or lack of access to production support.
“We’ve been turned away by producers more times than I can count,” Harry said. “With this prize, I can invest in myself and others who are still fighting for a chance.”
Beyond prizes, the competition underscored government recognition of creative arts as a pillar of national identity and economic opportunity. President Chakwera’s presence sent a clear signal: music matters.
If this year’s turnout is anything to go by, the future of Malawi’s music scene is not just bright, it’s electric.
