Malawian writers urged to publish biographies of VIPs

Malawian writers have been challenged to take up the task of writing biographies for worthwhile personalities-cum-achievers for publication.

Desmond Dudwa Phiri, historian and author, is currently the only renowned Malawian biographer.

Writer Willie Zingani expressed dissatisfaction over the absence of a biography culture in the country saying that elsewhere in the world; the culture is very much alive and has positive impacts on societies.

“Through biographies, one can inspire many lives, whether it’s a politician, a pastor or any other public figure,” Zingani told Weekend Nation.

He said it is unfortunate that no biographies have been written on important Malawian personalities such as late aero-engineer Landson Mhango, historian DD Phiri, and politicians Stanley Masauli and George Nga Ntafu.

Constitutional law professor at Chancellor College Edge Kanyongolo argued that the absence of biographies is because the said personalities don’t have time to write.

“People as old as 70 will still be working in this country,” he said. “Such people are not prepared to leave their work just to write a book.”

No full biography, giving an orderly recount of events, has been written the four presidents – Kamuzu Banda, Bakili Muluzi, Bingu wa Mutharika and Joyce Banda – who have led Malawi the last 50 years.

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