Excitement is mounting in Kenya as Malawians living there prepare for a colourful celebration of their country’s independence, bringing together the diaspora for a day of patriotism, culture and connection.
The Association of Malawians in Kenya (AMAKE) will host this year’s Malawi Independence Day celebrations in Nairobi on July 11, 2026 to commemorate Malawi’s 62nd Independence Anniversary.
The event is expected to feature cultural performances, sports, entertainment and networking opportunities for Malawians living in Kenya, offering Malawians from across Kenya a chance to reconnect with home, celebrate their shared identity and strengthen community ties.
AMAKE Chairperson Chikumbutso Kalilombe welcomed the celebrations, saying they provide an important opportunity for Malawians in Kenya to unite despite coming from different backgrounds.
“People came to Kenya for different individual reasons, but this event allows them to unite around one patriotic cause. It allows us to meet, network, reminisce and, most importantly, discuss how we can contribute to the development of our motherland,” he said.
Kalilombe said the celebrations have been made bigger and more inclusive, allowing people of all ages to take part.
Meanwhile, National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has donated K10 million towards the event, a move the bank says reflects its commitment to supporting Malawians wherever they are in the world.
NBM plc Henderson Street Service Centre Manager and Diaspora Champion Tamara Hannah Mtuwa said the sponsorship demonstrates the bank’s commitment to supporting Malawians wherever they are in the world.
“Independence is not only a moment in history; it is a living expression of who we are as Malawians. Through this partnership with AMAKE, we are proud to stand with our compatriots in Kenya and across the diaspora as they celebrate our nation’s journey, identity and unity,” she said.
Mtuwa said the sponsorship is about more than funding a single event.
“Our support for these celebrations goes beyond an event sponsorship. It reflects our commitment to engaging the diaspora community and fostering meaningful connections that contribute to Malawi’s growth and development,” she said.
Kalilombe said NBM plc’s support has enhanced the scale and significance of this year’s event while drawing attention to the untapped potential of diaspora engagement.
Malawi celebrates its Independence Day every year on July 6, marking the country’s attainment of independence from British colonial rule in 1964.
