Living Together in Diversity: A Celebration of Unity, Identity & Internationalism.
On Saturday, July 5, 2025, over 100 guests gathered in Bonn, Germany, for a truly unforgettable celebration of Malawi’s 61st Independence Day. Hosted by Umodzi wa a Malawi in Germany e.V., this vibrant event took place under the powerful theme:
“Living Together in Diversity: A Celebration of Cultures.”
More than just a commemoration of independence, the day was a spirited affirmation of international solidarity, cultural pride, and the resilience of Malawi’s global diaspora. With support from the Bridge2Success Project of Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg and the City of Sankt Augustin, the event brought together Malawians from across Germany, members of the African diaspora, local dignitaries, German families, and friends of Malawi in a heartfelt show of unity and forward-looking collaboration.
Below is the outlook for the day;
Morning: Youth & Family at the Centre
The celebration began with a family-friendly program. Children painted Malawian-inspired art guided by Gift Gama and enjoyed storytelling and music with artist Stefan Thiel.
At the same time, university students and young professionals took part in an intercultural workshop hosted by the Bridge2Success team, fostering self-reflection, intercultural competence, and empowerment.
Painting (left) & Bridge2Success (right) sessions
“We wanted to create a space where young professionals could connect, reflect, and grow as future ambassadors of Malawian culture and heritage.”
— Mr. Allex Semba, Chairman, Umodzi wa a Malawi in Germany e.V.
“We are Ambassadors of Malawi wherever we are” – Semba
Dignitaries & Dialogue: A High-Level Celebration
The event was graced by prominent figures, including:
H.E. Mr. Joseph John Mpinganjira, Malawi’s Ambassador to Germany
Mr. Derek Lakudzala, Deputy Ambassador
Dr. Billy Mayaya, Head of Chancery, Malawi Embassy to Belgium & EU
Frau Jutta Bergmann-Gries, First Deputy Mayor of Sankt Augustin
Ms. Silvia Hesse, Friends of Malawi & Hannover–Blantyre Sister City Association
Mr. Jürgen Borsch, Former German Ambassador to Malawi
Prof. Dr. Teena Chakkalayil Hassan and Prof. Dr. Kerstin Rosenow-Williams, Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg
Mr. Matthias Scharpf, Liberating Education Organisation
Mr. Enock Chota, Chair of the Zambian Diaspora in Germany
Their presence, speeches and engagements reminded us that diaspora communities are critical bridges for peace, development, and diplomacy.
Voices That Matter: A Podcast
A highlight of the day was the podcast roundtable,
“German-Malawi Partnership Panel: Advancing Bilateral Ties and Cooperation for Sustainable Development”, moderated by Mr. Mada D. Nkhoma.
Panellists reflected on how grassroots connections can enhance international cooperation:
“Municipal partnerships like Hannover–Blantyre keep us grounded in real relationships.”
— Ms. Silvia Hesse
“International cooperation and mutual understanding are everything. It is the engine behind sustainable development.”
— Mr. Jürgen Borsch
“Inclusive education is the driver of sustainable development”
— Mr. Matthias Scharpf
Later, in the “Voices of the Community” session led by Grenna Kaiya-Sokacic, diaspora participants shared lived challenges and co-created solutions. Reflections from Caroline Yator (Kenya), Andrew Kasiya (Malawi), and Enock Chota (Zambia) emphasised the shared power and vision of Africa’s diaspora.
These ideas will be compiled and forwarded to relevant institutions for further consideration and action.
Podcast with Mada, German-Malawi Partnership (left) & Voices of the Community with Grenna (right)
Culture on Full Display
The celebration came alive with Malawi’s vibrant cultural expressions. Performances included Manganje, Malipenga, Kungoni, and the awe-inspiring female Nyau performed by Maria.
Nyau, Manganje, Malipenga
“Culture connects generations. This event is a beautiful fusion of memory and movement.”
— Stefan Thiel, Artist and Performer
“Made in Malawi” Showcase: Creativity & Trade Potential
The “Made in Malawi” exhibition was a crowd favourite, featuring, among others:
Nali chilli sauces, Malawian coffee & tea, Malawi Gin, and Linga Wine
Handwoven baskets, traditional curios, bawo games, and tourism brochures
Guests not only sampled local treats like Mandasi and Chitambe, but also explored trade, tourism, and cross-border business opportunities with diaspora entrepreneurs and partners.
Discovering Malawi: A Tour of the Exhibitions
A Taste of Home: Food that Reconnected Us
From Nsima and Chambo to Thobwa, Thelere, and Mandasi, the food was more than nourishment; it was a taste of identity. For many, it was a spiritual reconnection to home, and for international friends, a warm introduction to Malawian hospitality.
“Guests queuing up for a taste of Malawi, worth the wait.”
The Power of Umodzi
Throughout the celebration, one thing was clear: mu umodzi muli mphamvu — in unity there is strength. As the celebration came to a close, Deputy Ambassador Derek Lakudzala offered a moving message:
“Wherever we are in the world, we are Malawian first — and we have a role to play in our nation’s development.”
“We are Malawians first”-Deputy Ambassador Lakudzala
The evening ended with music, dancing, new friendships, and renewed commitment to collective progress.
Moving Forward
Umodzi wa a Malawi continues to stand as a platform for collective progress — bridging communities, diaspora engagement, and preserving identity. As we look ahead, we carry with us the joy, ideas, and momentum sparked at this celebration.
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