Beating the odds: Emmanuel Harry turns Amapiano victory into launchpad

Three men stand on stage holding a large ceremonial cheque for MK5,000,000 labeled "Amapiano Winner," celebrating Emmanuel Harry's victory during a prize-giving event.

When Emmanuel Harry stepped onto the stage at the Bingu International Convention Centre on Saturday, the roar of the crowd confirmed what he had dared to dream; his song “Njee” had just won the Amapiano category in the “Dolo Kwambiri Amavotera Chakwera” music competition.

For the young Lilongwe-based artist, the MK5 million prize is more than a windfall, it’s a game-changer.

“We had waited so long, and at some point, we thought it wouldn’t happen,” Harry said. “Now, I can finally build my studio. This is the breakthrough I needed.”

Launched in 2024 by the Minister of Trade and Industry,…