The 2026 Likoma Island Festival has been rescheduled from its original October dates to November 6 through November 10, according to Nation Online. Organisers explained that the decision was made after their initial plan to charter the MV Chilembwe became financially unfeasible due to a shortfall in passenger numbers and increased operational costs. The Malawi Broadcasting Corporation reports that the festival will now align with the schedule of the MV Ilala, which will require patrons from the Northern Region to travel to Nkhotakota to board the vessel instead of Nkhata Bay. The event is set to exclusively feature Malawian talent, including performances by the Black Missionaries Band and other local acts.
In other cultural news, Chibuku Products Limited has donated K3 million to the Mulhako wa Alhomwe festival, Nyasa Times reports. Company representative Henry Mbweza handed over the funds to the organisation, stating that the brewer is dedicated to supporting cultural celebrations and maintaining strong relationships with traditional institutions across Malawi. Mulhako wa Alhomwe board representative Muchana Mpuluka received the donation, noting that traditional beer remains a central part of the upcoming festivities.
Meanwhile, preparations are advancing for the TMV Jam Session Festival set to take place in Zomba on November 6 and 7. The event recently expanded its lineup by adding MQ The DJ to the roster, who will perform alongside other local DJs at the Stay In Bar and Grill, according to promotional updates shared on Instagram. Additionally, Nation Online published a retrospective on the legacy of the late Evison Matafale, challenging the Black Missionaries Band to revisit the thought-provoking roots of their reggae music as they continue to lead Malawi's live entertainment scene.