By Rahim Abdul
The organizers of the prestigious Urban Music People (UMP) Awards have announced that the highly anticipated event, which recognizes excellence in fashion and film, will now take place on November 15, 2025, in Lilongwe.
The ceremony was initially scheduled for October 25 at Cape Maclear in Mangochi but was postponed due to unforeseen logistical and organizational challenges.
UMP’s communications director, Edgar M’baluku, said the decision to move the event was made after thorough consultations to ensure the awards maintain their reputation as one of the most glamorous and well-organized entertainment events in Malawi. He explained that several factors including accommodation constraints, technical setup issues and concerns about accessibility to the lakeshore venue prompted the team to reschedule and relocate the event to the capital city.
“We didn’t want to compromise the quality and prestige of UMP. Our goal is to host a memorable event that celebrates the best of Malawi’s fashion and film industries,” said M’baluku.
“Lilongwe offers better logistics and a wider audience reach, which aligns with our vision to make this year’s edition even bigger and more inclusive,”he added.
The UMP Awards, launched over a decade ago, have become a major platform for recognizing creative talent in Malawi’s urban culture, including fashion designers, models, stylists, filmmakers and actors. Over the years, the ceremony has expanded from celebrating musicians to honoring personalities from various entertainment and lifestyle sectors.
M’baluku further revealed that the list of nominees in both fashion and film categories has already been released. Among the notable names are some of Malawi’s rising filmmakers and designers who have made significant contributions to the country’s creative industry in 2025.
The new date, according to the organizers, will allow for better planning and give both nominees and fans enough time to prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable red-carpet experience. The ceremony is expected to feature live performances, celebrity appearances, and tributes to industry pioneers.
As anticipation builds, UMP organizers have assured fans that this year’s edition will not only focus on awards but also on showcasing the power of creativity as a driver of economic and cultural growth in Malawi.
“This year, we want to highlight how film and fashion can shape narratives, create jobs, and inspire young Malawians to pursue careers in the arts,” added M’baluku.
The UMP Awards 2025 are being described as a rebirth of Malawi’s entertainment excellence, setting the stage for a grand celebration of talent, style and innovation.
