Evison Matafale

Evison Matafale (20 November 1969 – 27 November 2001) was a Malawian Rastafarian whose music rose to popularity in Malawi. He was the founder and leader of the reggae band Black Missionaries. Matafale rose to fame and became one of Malawi's favourite musicians by 2000 through the release of his debut album, Kuimba 1, in 1999 with Wailing Brothers Band. Matafale was known as "the prophet" in Malawi and was seen as an elder amongst the community of Malawian Rastafarians. Evison Matafale founded and led the reggae band based in his home town of Chileka.

Rastafarian Matafale was a Rastafarian who wore dreadlocks. He blended his music with a more serious political message with their Rasta philosophy and words of peace, love, and unity in Malawi.

Political activism He was an outspoken political activist in Malawi. His music reflects his views against the policies of the Muluzi government. His brother, Elton, told journalists the singer was arrested and tortured by the police. Prior to his arrest he had written a series of letters to President Bakili Muluzi denouncing his government's policies.

Funeral Thousands of Malawians had attended the funeral of the artist after his sudden death in prison.

Honours In 2010 on Independence Day, President Bingu wa Mutharika awarded Matafale the Achiever of Malawi Order of National Achiever Award, and a gift of money to his family. His uncle, Charles Gunsaru, expressed the family’s gratitude and said the bereaved family regarded it as an honour.