Bien at a press briefing last evening
* Ready to perform at ‘Live at Kumbali’ music concert tonight at Kumbali Castle in Lilongwe
* To share the stage with some of Malawi’s most celebrated artists, including Driemo, Praise Umali and Maggie Kadrum, Sagonjah & Tadala, and DJ WNDRZ
* Tickets available through Kwenda.co or by dialling *495#, whose standard is at MK85,000 online and MK95,000 at gate subject to availability
By Duncan Mlanjira
Kenyan Grammy Award winner, Bien-Aimé Alusa Baraza has expressed his excitement ahead of performing at the ‘Live at Kumbali’ music concert tonight at Kumbali Castle in Lilongwe.
Kumbali Castle
“I am excited to be in Malawi once again,” said Bien a member of Sauti Sol, a Kenyan Afropop music band widely celebrated for his raspy, soulful vocals and captivating stage presence.
“Warm Heart of Africa is always a pleasure to visit and perform in,” he said at a press briefing last evening. “Tomorrow will be a fantastic evening as we celebrate music together, revisit some fan favourites and share some of my newer music.
“I love you, Malawi,” said the star, who will headline the main stage alongside Praise Umali, Driemo, Maggie Kadrum, Sagonjah & Tadala, and DJ WNDRZ.
Earlier in the evening, the Summerhouse Stage will feature performances by Yaankho, Isabel King, Sangwani Kaunda and DJ Liv, while the Tamba Africa Showcase will further celebrate the diversity and richness of Malawian music.
Tickets are available online through Kwenda.co or by dialling *495#, whose standard is at MK85,000, while tickets purchased at the gate will cost MK95,000, subject to availability.
Bien
Bien is the voice behind hit songs such as ‘Suzanna’ and ‘Short N Sweet’. He received the Grammy recognition for his contribution to Burna Boy’s Grammy Award-winning album ‘Twice As Tall’ and won the 2025 Trace Award for Best Artist in Eastern Africa.
Bien’s tour of Malawi was facilitated by Standard Bank Plc, in partnership with event organisers Nature’s Gift Ltd and Pakhonde Sessions.
At the press briefing, the organisers promises for what is touted as an unforgettable evening of live music in the capital.
Nature’s Gift General Manager Ian D’heygere highlighted the event’s commitment to authenticity and excellence: “’Live at Kumbali’ is a premium live music experience that celebrates music in its most authentic form, with every artist backed by a full live band and the best musical production available in the country.
“This year, we have expanded the experience with two stages, offering audiences even more music and entertainment.
“We provide a carefully curated experience and spare no effort in ensuring the service, sound and overall atmosphere are world-class.”
The title sponsor, Standard Bank is presenting ‘Live at Kumbali’ 2026 under its Joy of the Arts initiative, which seeks to promote and support the growth of Malawi’s arts creative industries.
Advertisement
Head of Brand & Marketing, Tamanda Ng’ombe said the sponsorship aligns with Standard Bank’s commitment to developing arts, culture and tourism.
“Standard Bank continues to support the growth of Malawi’s arts, music and cultural sectors. Our partnership with ‘Live at Kumbali’ reflects our appreciation of the arts and our belief in the transformative role music plays in society.
“By supporting this platform, we create opportunities for Malawian artists to share the stage with internationally acclaimed performers while showcasing Malawi as an attractive destination for tourism, culture and investment.”
Standard Bank has supported the ‘Live at Kumbali’ platform since its inaugural edition in 2023, helping bring internationally renowned performers such as Ami Faku, Simmy and Shekhinah to Malawian audiences.
Joy of the Arts is a Standard Bank initiative that supports the growth of the arts, culture and music industries in Malawi.
The youth-centered initiative has ran for the past two years supporting various artistic platforms in drama, theatre, visual arts, film, fashion and many more.
Advertisement