Malawi: Vwaza Multimedia to host music workshop in Dowa

The workshop, titled Music Business Link-Up: Introduction to Music Business and Distribution with Vwaza, is designed to unlock the untapped creative potential within the camp, equipping artists with practical knowledge about the music industry, distribution, and monetisation through the Vwaza Music platform.

The event will feature capacity-building activities, including discussions on Malawi’s music industry, intellectual property rights, and revenue generation in the digital era.

Dzaleka Refugee Camp is home to a dynamic community of artists who have continued to create in the face of adversity and limited support. Recognising the camp as a hub of innovation and cultural richness, the organisers aim to help local talent monetise their work and access wider audiences.

“Vwaza is dedicated to empowering Malawi’s music industry by providing innovative solutions and opportunities for artists,” Vwaza Multimedia CEO and founder Joel Fickson said. “Dzaleka’s rich cultural heritage and talented artists make it the perfect partner in our mission to elevate Malawi’s music globally. We will onboard artists from the camp onto the Vwaza platform, ensuring they earn revenue from their work, get the exposure they deserve, and benefit long after we’ve trained them.”

The Diamond Standard founder Pokani Kaunda said: “For us, Salama Africa represents the rich and diverse creative talent from across Africa that is often overlooked and under-supported within Malawi. Our focus is on delivering music business workshops that equip their creative community with practical industry knowledge, particularly around harnessing their talent and intellectual property, to help them intentionally diversify their income streams and build sustainable careers.”

Salama Africa executive director Prince Lokendo highlighted the broader impact of the initiative: “The Music Business Sessions represent more than just an event, they are a powerful platform for creative empowerment and economic opportunity within the Dzaleka community.

“At Salama Africa, we’ve seen first-hand how music can transform lives, especially for young refugees who often lack access to formal education or employment. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to nurture talent and build sustainable futures through the arts. We are proud to support this collaboration and look forward to the inspiration and innovation it will spark.”