By Ireen Mseteka

Likoma, October 11, Mana: Director of Events for 2024 Likoma Island Cultural Festival, Patrick Chikoti, Thursday said that the district is set to hold its 2024 Festival which is scheduled to run from October 12 to 15.

In an interview, Chikoti said that all the preparations for the event are almost complete and we have already deployed a team of some members of organizing committee to welcome people from the mainland and are invited for the event,” said Chikoti.

“The festival which is held annually, to among others, market Likoma and Chizumulu islands which are tourists’ destinations and attract investors on the islands.

Increased investment in tourism in the district, will translate in job creation opportunities in the district,” said Chikoti.

He added that most people depend on fishing for their livelihoods and that the trend is slowly contributing towards depletion of fish in Lake Malawi, hence the need for alternative livelihood sources as employment opportunities.

“This event conforms with government tourism master plan which earmarks Likoma for tourism projects such as upgrading Likoma Airport into an international airport among others.

Secretary for Entertainment, Information and Protocol for the festival, Edwina Mseteka said that people should, among others expect to enjoy traditional dances, live music performances and dugout canoe paddling competitions.

“People will have fun as we will concurrently be promoting our culture spiced by our traditional dishes,” said Mseteka.

According to Mseteka, the festival will start with a parade from Likoma Airport to Likoma Community Hall where the festival will be launched, followed by other activities which will be held at Domino Coconut Resort as the main venue for the event.