By Rahim Abdul
Multi-award-winning artist Driemo and legendary reggae band Black Missionaries have been announced as headliners for the third Cape Maclear International Film Festival (CMIFF), scheduled for October 3, 2026, at Fat Monkeys in Cape Maclear, Mangochi.
The announcement has added excitement to this year’s festival, which is expected to bring together music, film and cultural entertainment under one platform.
Festival Team Lead Edward Longwe said the selection of the two acts was influenced by their ability to appeal to audiences across different age groups.
“Their music caters to audiences of all ages with clean lyrics and relatable themes. That’s exactly what we want at CMIFF,” said Longwe.
Driemo has established himself as one of Malawi’s prominent contemporary artists, earning recognition through his music and performances both locally and internationally.
The Black Missionaries, meanwhile, remain one of Malawi’s most celebrated reggae groups, with a long-standing contribution to the country’s music industry.
The two acts will headline a lineup that also includes Adobe Dance Crew and Unstoppable Dance Crew.
Their inclusion is expected to add variety to the festival’s entertainment programme through a combination of live music and dance performances.
Driemo and Black Missionaries join previously announced artist Keturah, who is also part of the festival’s entertainment lineup.
The organisers say the festival will provide a platform for celebrating Malawi’s creative arts while attracting audiences to the lakeshore district.
Ahead of the main event, CMIFF will host a one-day cultural pop-up on August 29, 2026, at Five79 Cafe in Blantyre.
The pop-up is expected to serve as a build-up event to the main festival in Cape Maclear, giving audiences an early opportunity to experience the festival’s cultural and entertainment offering.
