Many things in Malawi need to be upgraded. And although Museums are not a top priority right now, they present a great opportunity to showcase Malawi’s Cultural Heritage and grow our country’s Tourism sector.

“I love doing normal things … I also love to go to art and history museums.” – Christina Aguilera

Malawi, the Warm Heart of Africa, boasts a tapestry of cultural and natural heritage unlike any other. From the ancient rock art of Chongoni to the diverse ecosystems teeming within Lake Malawi, our nation’s history and biodiversity are a treasure trove. Museums play a vital role in preserving and promoting this heritage, acting as guardians of our collective memory and catalysts for education and tourism. And it is important that we should preserve, improve and promote them, as much as possible.

Challenges and Opportunities for Malawi’s Museums

Malawi is home to several significant museums, including the Chichiri Museum in Blantyre, Kungoni Centre of Culture & Art, the Stone House Museum in Livingstonia, Lake Malawi Museum, and the Cultural & Museum Centre Karonga (also known as Karonga Museum) in the north. These institutions house invaluable collections showcasing archaeological finds, ethnographic artifacts, and natural history specimens. The Department of Museums and Monuments, which was established in 2017, is mandated to collect, preserve and carry out research on natural and cultural history of Malawi and interpret as well as disseminate the information to the public through educational programs. However, it’s work has been limited and beset by significant hurdles.

One key challenge is the lack of consistent policies across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). This fragmented approach hinders a unified strategy for heritage management. Furthermore, limited funding restricts the development of new establishments, procurement of additional artifacts and maintenance of current museums. For instance, outdated exhibits may struggle to engage modern and young audiences, and leaky roofs can damage priceless artifacts, among other challenges. Also, without a significant budget that enables museums to go out and scout for new pieces, citizenry and visitors soon tire with visiting the same limited collections.

Despite these challenges, opportunities abound. Well-maintained museums hold immense potential for tourism. Engaging exhibits can offer visitors a window into Malawi’s rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders, boosting the economy and creating jobs. Moreover, museums play a crucial role in educating future generations about their heritage, fostering a sense of national identity. Imagine a child gazing in awe at a dinosaur tooth unearthed in Malawi, or a student learning about traditional Malawian crafts, or a young scholar learning about the struggle for independence curated in pictures with short descriptions – these experiences spark curiosity, connection, and a sense of belonging.

“Don’t go to a museum with a destination. Museums are wormholes to other worlds. They are ecstasy machines.”

Jerry Saltz

The Future of Malawi’s Museums

Recognizing the importance of our museums should go hand in hand with having regular plans to revitalize these institutions, and improve them. In the 21st Century, it’s important to have infrastructure projects aimed to improve the physical spaces, making them better and creating inviting, modern environments, and also making them more accessible for visitors, for example for people with disabilities. Interactive exhibits could bring history and culture to life, while improved lighting and climate control systems would ensure the preservation of artifacts. New A.I. art could inject an additional level of interest, as well as showcasing cultural celebrations with a modern twist. Thus, the development of cultural heritage centers could include educational programs, performances, and artisan markets, to help artists sell their art.

These initiatives have garnered support from various stakeholders. The government has shown a commitment to preserving our heritage, with concrete actions like budget allocations for museum renovations. Organizations like the Beit Trust have provided crucial funding for specific museum projects, such as the refurbishment of the Chichiri Museum’s ethnographic wing. The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi has also played a role, recognizing the importance of cultural institutions by ensuring reliable power supplies to museums, safeguarding collections and enabling the use of modern technology for exhibits.

What needs to be done?

The upgrading and preservation of Malawi’s museums are not just matters of cultural pride; they are investments in our nation’s future. By safeguarding our heritage, we create opportunities for education, research, and economic growth through tourism. The time to act is now. And here, creativity is key. For example, Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum has a few restaurants which serve food and drinks. This creates many opportunities and can increase the income of the museum – beyond what is sold in their gift shop.

• Bite at the museum: the best cafes in galleries, libraries and culture spots in Manchester (confidentials.com)

It also requires a concerted effort from all corners of society. The government can find land for new and modern structures, and allocate sufficient and consistent funding, while the private sector can invest in sponsorships and partnerships. Citizens can actively engage with museums, becoming patrons, volunteers, or even creating awareness campaigns, whereas the Museums themselves and the Department of Museums and Monuments can organise exhibitions and collaborations with African and international museums and artists. Together, we can ensure that Malawi’s museums not only survive but thrive, becoming vibrant centers of learning, inspiration, and national pride.

Let’s mobilize now to preserve and promote the rich cultural tapestry that makes Malawi unique. Our museums are more than buildings housing artifacts – they are the keepers of our national story, waiting to inspire and educate generations to come. Let us ensure their doors remain open, not just for visitors, but for the future of Malawi itself.