Malawi: Onesimus to headline UMP Festival in October

The festival will run under the theme, The Evolution and will see Onesimus entertain fans with songs such as ‘Solomon’ and ‘Controller’ as well as tracks from his latest seven-track EP I Am Strong.

He will be joined by local and international acts who will be drawn from an open call that will run until 31 July. More headliners will be announced in due course.

Apart from musicians, the organisers will announce other entertainers who will showcase at the festival. They will be drawn from fields such as film, fashion, poetry, visual arts and sports.

Born Sopani Armstrong Kalua, Onesimus is known for his soulful vocals and dynamic performances. With a musical style that seamlessly blends Afropop, R&B and traditional Malawian music, Onesimus has garnered recognition for his exceptional talent and cross-cultural appeal.

UMP comprises a music festival, awards ceremony, fashion show and media awards. It began as a mini-concert in Blantyre in 2009 by employing a makeshift stage on the back of a truck.

The event has grown to become one of the most influential entertainment events in the country. Founded by Khumbo Munthali and Ken Limwame of Ndefeyo Entertainment, UMP Festival has been held at different venues including the former French Cultural Centre, Chancellor College and BAT Ground.