Standard Bank Awards K9M in Malawi Tourism Month Competitions
Tourism Minister Vera Kamtukule praised Standard Bank's partnership, saying it motivated artists to promote Malawi as a tourism destination.
LILONGWE, Malawi— Standard Bank Plc awarded K9 million to photographers and poets who participated in competitions during Malawi's Tourism Month in September, writes AfricaBrief Reporter.
At the World Tourism Day awards ceremony on Sept. 27, Standard Bank's Head of Compliance Chikondi Kapyepye said the sponsorship underscores the bank's commitment to promoting Malawi's tourism potential.
"These art forms have a unique ability to showcase Malawi's beauty and promote our nation as a premier tourism destination," Kapyepye said.
She added that the competitions provided a platform for talented artists to display Malawi's culture while fostering economic development.
"Through our Joy of the Arts initiatives, we want to empower youths to pursue their talents and passion," Kapyepye said.
The top three photographers—Chimwemwe Kamangira, David Kausiwa, and Edwin Mauluka — received equipment vouchers worth K2 million, K1.5 million, and K1 million, respectively.
Six student poets each won K750,000 for school fees and stationery in a competition organized by the Association of Teaching English in Malawi.
Kapyepye thanked the government for waiving visa restrictions with several countries, a move Standard Bank advocated for through its "Growth Conversations" platform.
Tourism Minister Vera Kamtukule praised Standard Bank's partnership, saying it motivated artists to promote Malawi as a tourism destination.
"Corporate sponsorship is a vital component of tourism product development," Kamtukule said.