By Rahim Abdul

Mlakatuli Isaac Kadankowa has emerged as the overall winner of the Malawi Has Talent competition, walking away with a grand prize of K35 million after an electrifying final held on Sunday.

The finale of the national talent show took place under the joint organization of Goshen City and Times Group, drawing a packed audience that was treated to a wide range of performances showcasing Malawi’s rich creative diversity.

Contestants displayed various forms of talent, including singing, dancing and spoken word, turning the final event into a colourful celebration of artistic expression and innovation.

Kadankowa’s victory, however, stood out for its originality and powerful delivery, setting him apart from the rest of the finalists in a highly competitive showdown.

Unlike the conventional style of spoken word poetry, where a performer stands alone reciting verses, Kadankowa introduced a dramatic theatrical element that brought his message vividly to life on stage.

He performed alongside a group of actors who visually interpreted his words, creating live scenes that reflected everyday realities and key issues affecting Malawian society.

The performers were dressed as people from different professions, including political party supporters, police officers, health workers, students and religious leaders, each carrying tools or symbols associated with their roles in national development.

This creative approach helped the audience easily connect with the message, as the performance mirrored real life situations familiar to many Malawians.

One of the most memorable moments came when Kadankowa referenced Malawi’s former president, Hastings Kamuzu Banda, prompting the appearance of a performer dressed in Malawi Congress Party regalia and carrying a fly whisk, a gesture that sparked excitement and loud applause.

Judges and spectators alike praised the performance for its depth, relevance and strong visual storytelling, describing it as both entertaining and thought provoking.

The win marks a major milestone in Kadankowa’s artistic journey, positioning him as one of the country’s most promising spoken word artists.

Meanwhile, Goshen City leader Shepherd Bushiri emphasized the importance of nurturing talent, saying platforms like Malawi Has Talent are vital in discovering, protecting and promoting creative potential across different sectors.