Lecturer, Mzuzu University- Department of History and Heritage, Malawi
Dr. Mwayi Woyamba Lusaka is a Malawian historian and heritage studies expert. With a wealth of experience in researching, presenting, and publishing work in cultural heritage, he is committed to preserving Malawi’s history and promoting public awareness through education and conservation projects. His contributions extend to international conferences and locally published articles, making him a leading voice in Malawian cultural and historical conservation.
Profile
Scopus
🎓 Education
Dr. Lusaka holds a Doctor of Philosophy in History, specializing in heritage issues, from the University of the Western Cape (2016-2019). He also earned a Master’s degree (cum laude) and a Postgraduate Diploma (cum laude) in Museum and Heritage Studies from the same university. His educational foundation was established at Chancellor College, University of Malawi, where he obtained a Bachelor of Education in Humanities.
💼 Experience
With over a decade of experience, Dr. Lusaka has held various roles in education and heritage management. His career began in secondary education, teaching history and humanities. He later served as a History Tutor and Research Coach at the University of the Western Cape and currently lectures at Mzuzu University in History and Heritage Studies. Dr. Lusaka’s fieldwork includes multiple UNESCO and NORAD-funded heritage projects, where he developed expertise in managing cultural sites and community mobilization.
🔬 Research Interests
Dr. Lusaka’s research interests center on cultural heritage, memory, and history conservation, particularly in Malawi. He explores the intersection of oral history, heritage management, and public history. His projects often involve traditional architecture, intangible cultural heritage, and the socio-political aspects of heritage representation.
🏆 Awards
Dr. Lusaka’s academic journey is marked by numerous awards. These include the Andrew Mellon Fellowships for both his Master’s and Doctoral studies at the University of the Western Cape. He also received the Faculty of Arts Dean’s Merit List Award twice and an award for his first peer-reviewed publication titled Memory, Oral History and Conservation at Robben Island’s Bluestone Quarry.
📚 Publications Top Notes
Lusaka, M. (2017). Memory, Oral History and Conservation at Robben Island’s Bluestone Quarry. South African Historical Journal. DOI:10.1080/02582473.2017.1359329
Cited by: Numerous articles exploring memory and heritage conservation.
Lusaka, M. (2020). Dividing the Nation or Promoting Unity? Ethnic-Based Associations and Production of Heritage in Malawi. In K. Ross & W. O. Mulwafu (Eds.), Politics, Christianity and Society in Malawi.
Lusaka, M. (2022). Museums as Agents for Social Change: Collaborative Programmes at the Mutare Museum. Museum Management and Curatorship, 37(4), 449-453.
Lusaka, M. (2023). Curating the Nation: Collections, Ethnographic Representations, and Heritage Production at Museum of Malawi. Cogent Arts & Humanities, 10:1. DOI:10.1080/23311983.2022.2160577
Lusaka, M. (2023). Kamuzu Banda’s Memory and Negotiation of Power in Malawi. Cogent Arts & Humanities, 10:1. DOI:10.1080/23311983.2023.2198319
Lusaka, M. (2023). Whose Museum? Collaboration and Contestation over Heritage Management at the Cultural and Museum Center Karonga in Malawi. Cogent Arts & Humanities, 10:1.
Conclusion
Dr. Mwayi Woyamba Lusaka’s extensive experience in heritage research, project management, and public engagement makes him an outstanding candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His commitment to preserving and promoting Malawian heritage, coupled with his academic achievements and international involvement, highlight his suitability for this honor. With minor improvements in global engagement and cross-disciplinary research, Dr. Lusaka’s influence and contribution to heritage studies can reach even greater heights.