The Zomba City Festival has received a significant financial boost of K5 million from the Malawi Gaming and Lotteries Authority (MAGLA) in support of its highly anticipated 2026 edition. Now in its sixth year, the festival continues to grow as one of Malawi’s premier cultural showcases.

Scheduled to run from May 1 through May 3, the festival will deliver a dynamic, multi-day and multi-venue experience spanning music, literature, film, and performing arts. Organizers say the sponsorship reflects sustained confidence from partners in the festival’s structured and impactful cultural platform.

Festival founder Laura Schuerwegen expressed gratitude for the continued support, emphasizing the event’s readiness and ambition: “We are 100 percent ready to host this year’s edition. This support from Magla is not only timely but also a strong endorsement of the festival’s vision and growth.”

The 2026 lineup features an exciting blend of international and local talent. Confirmed international performers include South African spoken-word artist Stanza Mmoki, Zimbabwean musician Prudence Mabhena, and Irish performer Murray Molloy. They will be joined by a vibrant roster of Malawian acts, including Nathaniel Chaluchalu, among others.

Beyond performances, the festival will also host workshops, panel discussions, film screenings, and community engagement activities aimed at fostering artistic exchange and cultural development within the region. With growing international recognition and strong institutional backing, the 2026 Zomba City Festival is poised to deliver an even richer and more immersive cultural experience.

About Zomba City Festival

Zomba City Festival is an annual multidisciplinary arts event held in Zomba, Malawi, celebrating creative expression across music, literature, film, and performing arts. Since its inception, the festival has become a key platform for both emerging and established artists from Malawi and beyond.