By Jones Gadama
The Standard Bank-sponsored Association for the Teaching of English in Malawi (ATEM) National Drama Festival took a unique approach this year, using theatre to raise awareness about the growing issue of human trafficking in Malawi. The festival, held over the weekend at the Kamuzu Institute for Sports in Lilongwe, brought together 18 schools to showcase their talents and raise awareness about this critical issue.
ATEM President Davie Mpaso emphasized the importance of addressing human trafficking, a serious and pressing issue in Malawi.
“Young people are being lured with false promises and trafficked,” Mpaso said. “The aim is to raise public awareness that human trafficking is real, happening, and closer than many realize.”
Standard Bank’s Head of Brand and Marketing, Tamanda Ng’ombe, echoed Mpaso’s sentiments, highlighting the bank’s support for the arts as part of Malawian culture.
“As a bank that employs Malawians, we understand the impact human trafficking can have, and we believe these conversations must happen—solutions must be found,” Ng’ombe said.
The two-day festival saw Lilongwe Girls Secondary School emerge victorious with a powerful drama performance, earning a K2 million cash prize.
Stella Maris Secondary School claimed second place, followed by St Maria Goretti in third. Chichiri Secondary and Kamuzu Barracks Secondary came in fourth and fifth, respectively.
Presidential Advisor on Creative Industries, Qabaniso Malewezi, commended the corporate sector for supporting the arts in Malawi.
“Such partnerships are crucial for nurturing local talent and driving national conversations through creative expression,” Malewezi said.
The festival’s focus on human trafficking highlights the need for awareness and action to prevent this heinous crime. By using theatre as a platform for awareness, the festival has shown that art can be a powerful tool for social change.
The Standard Bank-sponsored ATEM National Drama Festival is a testament to the power of partnerships between the corporate sector and creative industries.
By supporting the arts, Standard Bank is not only promoting Malawian culture but also contributing to the country’s development.
As the festival comes to a close, the impact of the performances will likely be felt beyond the stage.
The awareness raised about human trafficking will hopefully inspire action and spark meaningful conversations about this critical issue.
The festival’s success is a reminder that art can be a powerful catalyst for change, and its impact can be felt far beyond the stage.
