Nahec Taskforce Faces Funding Setback

The National Arts and Heritage Council (Nahec) taskforce is reeling from a major blow after the 2025-26 proposed national budget failed to allocate funding for the council. Despite intense lobbying efforts, the taskforce's request for K3.78 billion was met with silence from the Ministry of Finance.

The Nahec taskforce, led by secretary Ron Muphuwa, had been pushing for the funding to establish the council following the enactment of the National Arts and Heritage Act. The absence of funding allocation puts the council's future in jeopardy, undermining efforts to promote Malawi's arts and heritage.

Muphuwa expressed disappointment and appealed for support from well-wishers. The Director of Arts in the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Humphrey Mpondaminga, acknowledged the funding issue and expressed hope for a positive outcome from ongoing discussions. Special Adviser to President Lazarus Chakwera on Creative Industries, Q Malewezi, reassured that the President remains committed to operationalizing Nahec as soon as possible.

The Nahec taskforce is now engaging with members of the Parliamentary Committee on Community and Social Services, who had supported the Nahec Bill. Unesco's previous assistance in lobbying for the bill's passage is no longer available, making the taskforce's efforts even more challenging. The situation highlights the need for sustained support to establish a robust arts and heritage council in Malawi.