By Ali Gunde.
The story of the Mwanza War of October 1967 is set to move from the pages of history into the theatre stage.
Following the release of The Mwanza War of October 1967: Cold War Shadows in Malawi, published by the Lost History Foundation (LHF) in collaboration with Wissen Books, YDC Theatre has announced that it has started developing a stage play manuscript based on the book, with plans to launch performances across Malawi and abroad by October 2026.
In an interview, YDC Theatre Executive Director Fumbani Ennoti Phiri confirmed that the theatre group has begun the process of transforming the historical account into a dramatic production that will bring the Mwanza War story closer to audiences through the arts.
YDC Theatre is well known for using theatre to preserve and engage with Malawi’s history through productions such as Walking Ngwazi (2018), Operation Mandala (2020), and Remembering Attati Mpakati (2020). Beyond Malawi, the group has also showcased its productions internationally through performances in Germany, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
Commenting on the development, LHF Executive Director Kamunkhwala Selenje said LHF is encouraged by the interest to extend the reach of the book through artistic expression.
“LHF is pleased that from the book project that has just been released, there is already interest to amplify its contents through an artistic approach. This confirms that there is indeed a powerful legacy emanating from the Mwanza War,” said Selenje.
The planned theatre production represents another chapter in keeping alive the memory, debates, and historical lessons surrounding one of Malawi’s most significant yet overlooked events.
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The book is available on Amazon. Hard copies can also be purchased in Malawi.
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