UNIMA receives MK25 Million support from Standard Bank for Theatre Festival

One of the highlights of the past weekend at the University of Malawi was the return of the UNIMA Theatre Festival, which saw professional and upcoming theatre groups, among other performers, congregating on the campus to stage performances. One of the organisations that made this event possible was Standard Bank, which supported institution with a donation of MK25,000,000. The donation was received by Vice-Chancellor Professor Samson Sajidu from Standard Bank’s Head of Brand and Marketing, Ms Tamanda Ng’ombe. Also present during the handover ceremony were the University Registrar, Mr Martin Matululu, the Chairperson of the UNIMA Theatre Festival, Dr Zindaba Chisiza, as well as other UNIMA staff members.

Speaking during the dummy cheque presentation at the University Office Boardroom on 21st November 2025, Professor Sajidu extended his gratitude to Standard Bank for its continued financial contribution to the creative arts industry in the country, including the UNIMA Theatre Festival. He further commended the leadership of Dr Zindaba Chisiza for his visionary guidance of the festival, which has become a vibrant platform where both emerging and established theatre groups across the country come together to showcase talent, creativity, and the rich cultural narratives that define the Malawian identity.

“UNIMA Theatre Festival is more than just an event; it is a movement. It is building a pipeline of artistic talent, fostering collaboration, and stimulating the growth of the creative industry. This partnership is a clear example of a university-industry relationship that has come to support us in nurturing our youth as we work towards the realisation of Malawi 2063,” Sajidu said.

Ms Ng’ombe mentioned that this was the second time Standard Bank was supporting the UNIMA Theatre Festival. She further stated that the bank made the donation to support the event as part of its corporate social responsibility strategy. She added that how a country brands itself is critical to its growth, and that arts and tourism play a vital role in promoting Malawi’s image. Previously, the bank supported the festival with MK15,000,000.