Malawians in Manchester Celebrates 59th Malawi Independence in Openshaw Park

On Saturday 29th July Malawi nationals in diaspora more particularly those living in the city of Manchester in the United Kingdom came out in large numbers to celebrate their country’s 59th Independence at the Openshaw Park.

Malawi gained it’s independence from Britain on 6th July 1964. This date is observed as a national day of celebration and public holiday.

However, people still continue with the celebrations until end July hence the Manchester community chose their suitable day to celebrate and have a community fun day with full of activities.

Speaking to Malawi Daily Telegraph one of the well known Malawians in diaspora, Allan Mandindi said it is now becoming a custom for many Malawians to have a series of celebrations throughout the entire month of July despite the official independence day holiday being 6th July

“These events are great for the Malawian community in Manchester, they bring different people together and provide an opportunity to meet and celebrate independence at the same time showcasing our cultural values to the rest of the world,” said Mandindi.

Some of the activities that spiced the occasion to suit people of all ages include: sports including football, tennis and netball, culture , food and drinks.

The organizer of the football match Chiwi Sikwesi expressed gratitude with the youth involvement in an independence football match which ended 4-3 in favour of the juniors.

“We had fun and the kids loved it being the first time ever to be involved with the senior team, they will take it from where we left and bravo to the young Malawians,” said Sikwesi

This year’s celebration followed on a successful last year’s event hosted by the Malawi Manchester Association, Malawi Heritage, Women Arise, Pamodzi and Green Mind which exhibited some Malawi’s cultural activities and food.

Last year, some organizations including: Malawi -Manchester Association, Malawi Heritage UK, Women Arise, Pamodzi initiated the first joint celebration which took place at Openshaw Park and was attended by the Lord Mayor of Manchester