From the Hill to the Horizon: An Unforgettable Chilembwe Day at the Lake

For the staff of Ndirande Hill, January 15th wasn’t just a public holiday—it was a day to honor our history and strengthen our bonds. On Chilembwe Day, while the morning mist still clung to the peaks of Ndirande, our journey began.

The Early Start

The clock struck 6:00 AM, and we were already on the move. There’s a specific kind of magic in a Malawian sunrise, and as we left the city behind, the excitement was palpable. The air was cool, the chatter was lively, and the destination was clear: the shimmering blue waters of Lake Malawi.

Into the Blue

Upon arrival, we traded the dusty roads for a sturdy wooden boat. As the engine hummed and we pulled away from the shore, the sheer scale of the lake opened up before us. Heading toward a nearby island, the water shifted from a deep navy to a brilliant turquoise.

As we leaned over the edge of the boat, we were greeted by the lake’s famous residents—the colorful Cichlids. Like scattered jewels beneath the surface, yellow, blue, and striped fish darted through the rocks. It was a silent, underwater carnival that left us all in awe of the nature we are lucky enough to call home.

The Cry of Africa

The highlight of the boat trip came from above. High in the trees of the island, the majestic African Fish Eagles kept watch. With a sharp whistle from our guide and a well-timed toss of a small fish, we witnessed a masterclass in precision. One of the eagles took flight, its white chest gleaming in the sun, before diving with incredible speed to snatch its prey from the surface. In that moment, surrounded by the "Cry of Africa," we felt the true spirit of the continent.

Swimming and Sunshine

Once we reached the island’s cove, it was time to dive in. The water was the perfect temperature—a refreshing embrace after the morning heat. We swam, we floated, and we laughed. Away from the desks and the "Hill," we weren't just colleagues; we were a family enjoying the "Lake of Stars."

The Feast

No Malawian outing is complete without a braai, and the Ndirande Hill staff knows how to feast! As we headed back to the shore, the scent of sizzling meat and spices began to fill the air.

Under the shade of the trees, we gathered around the fire. The spread was magnificent—perfectly charred meats, fresh sides, and plenty of laughter to go around. There is something about a meal shared in the open air, with the sound of the waves in the background, that makes the food taste better and the stories sound funnier.

A Day to Remember

As the sun began its slow descent, casting golden reflections across the water, we began our journey back to Ndirande. Our skin was sun-kissed, our bellies were full, and our spirits were high.

We went to the lake to celebrate Chilembwe Day, but we came back with something more: a renewed sense of unity and memories that will last until the next time we hear the call of the water. It wasn't just a great day; it was the perfect day.