
Muslim Arts Awards 2024: Celebrating Talent and Unity in Malawi

By Bashir Amini
The third edition of the Muslim Arts Awards (MAA), held on December 20, 2024, at Amaryllis Hotel in Blantyre, marked a night of glamour, talent, and recognition. The event, widely regarded as the most organized and glamorous awards ceremony in Malawi, celebrated the rich creative contributions of Malawi’s Muslim community, bringing together dignitaries, artists, and patrons to honour excellence in various artistic fields.
Broadcast live on Zodiak Broadcasing Station TV, Zodiak Online, and TV Islam, the awards recognized outstanding contributions in nasheeds, poetry, drama, media, and more. The night was filled with vibrant performances from some of the most respected names in Malawi’s Muslim entertainment scene. Local nasheed legend Ishmael Katawala’s performance left the audience in awe, and Aqeel Masinja’s soulful voice resonated deeply with attendees. The evening also featured Yusuf Bamusi’s poetic brilliance and comedy acts by Poison and Chipojola, making it a memorable celebration of culture, art, and faith.
A special highlight was the presentation of three Special Recognition Awards to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to both the Muslim community and Malawi as a whole. The Islamic Zakaat Fund, Kanjedza Muslim Sisters, and football legend Yassin Osman were honoured for their dedicated service and impactful work.
The competitive categories also celebrated exceptional talent, with Aqeel Masinja winning Best Nasheed Artist for the second consecutive year, Enock Chitemwe being named Best Comedian, and Ishmael Dinala earning Best Poet. Shaheed Abdul-Wahab was recognized as the Best Upcoming Nasheed Artist, while Yaseen Mukayenda took home the Best Video Director Award. Sakina Majawa of Chanco Radio was awarded Best Media Personality in Radio, and Yassin Limu was honoured as Best Media Personality (TV). Gift Sitima was named Best Media Personality (Print), and Amirddin Mvula was awarded Best Media Personality (Online).
Despite the event’s success, the organizers called for more support from Muslim-owned businesses. They noted the contradiction in the willingness of some Muslim companies to support non-Islamic ventures, but their hesitation to invest in initiatives that celebrate Islamic culture. This challenge underscored the need for greater investment in projects that uplift the Muslim community.
Founded in 2022, the Muslim Arts Awards has rapidly become a cornerstone in recognizing and nurturing creativity within Malawi’s Muslim community. The success of the past three editions reflects the tireless efforts of its founding team—Tailos Bakili, Nurdeen Cassim, Bashir Amini, Rashid Chilizule, Joseph Kadzakumanja, Araffat Nkata, and Sammy Kachepa, with Justice Jabbar Alide serving as Patron.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the power of the Muslim Arts Awards to unite, inspire, and promote talent within the community was evident. With continued support from individuals, organizations, and businesses, the future of the MAA looks brighter, promising even greater recognition for the immense talent within Malawi’s Muslim community.