Gloria Kampingu Manong’a is a renowned Malawian gospel artist, choir mistress, and music pioneer with a deep-rooted passion for singing. Born on February 13, 1982, at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, she has dedicated her life to music, inspiring many through her voice and leadership in the Malawian music industry.
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Gloria hails from a mixed heritage, with her mother from Dedza and her father from Ntcheu. She spent part of her childhood in Ntcheu, where she was introduced to music at a young age. At just six years old, she started singing in the Tembenikani Choir under Kadzakalowa Churches of Christ, a passion that has remained with her throughout her life.
She pursued her primary education at Kadzakalowa LEA School (Standard 1 to 7) and later completed her Standard 8 at Blantyre Girls Primary School. For her secondary education, she attended Namalimwe MCDE, Mphunzi Secondary School, and ultimately wrote her MSCE at Nyambadwe Private School. Furthering her education, she studied Community Development at PACT College'
MUSICAL CAREER
Gloria has served as a choir mistress for various groups, including:
-Tembenikani Choir
- Galileya Choir
- Namalimwe SCOM Choir
- Mphunzi SCOM Choir
- Ndirande Assemblies of God Christ Ambassadors (CAs)
- Glorious Time Singers
She has also supported and collaborated with several esteemed artists in live performances and studio recordings. Some notable names include:
- Late Rev. Yasin Mbewe
- Pastor Grey Samani (late)
- Rev. Wycliffe Chimwendo
- Favoured Martha
- Eliza Kachali Kaunda
- Limbani Banda
- Baird Mkolongo (lead vocalist in his song Dziko Ili Likutha, 2001)
- Aleluya Band (2010 album)
- Cocci Chiwalo
SOUNDTRACK CONTRIBUTIONS
Gloria’s voice has been featured in multiple soundtracks for Malawian films, including:
- Seasons of a Life (Shemu Joyah)
- International Cockie and Living on Perfume (Dr. Michael Usi)
- My Mother’s Story (Flora Suya) composer & singer
- Tinkanena Part 2 (Jacobs Mwase) composer & singer.
Additionally, she worked on a primary school song compilation directed by Ben Michael Mankhamba, featuring well-known songs like Changa Mnyamanso, Tambala Walira Kokoliliko, and Pamchenga, which were showcased at Machinga Teachers Training College.
SOLO CAREER AND ALBUMS
Gloria began her solo recording journey as the first female backing vocalist for Joseph Mkasa. She was discovered by Reverend Fletcher Kaiya, who was inspired by her voice in Mkasa’s music and sponsored her debut album, Sinkhambakamwa, recorded in 1999 at Baptist Media Centre in Blantyre. Unfortunately, the tape was lost and never released. Despite this setback, she persevered and has since released Ten albums, including:
1. Sinkhambakamwa
2. Wamuyaya
3. Usasunge Kanthu Mu Mtima
4. Chilengedwe
5. Mlonda Ndani
6. Muyambe Nane
7. Kunja Kwacha
8. Hymns Compilation/Worship Medley
9. Alibe Vumbulutso
10. Shauri Yako
LIVE PERFORMANCES AND INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTIONS
Gloria has graced major platforms and organized events at prestigious venues such as:
• French Cultural Centre
• Robins Park
• Sheaffer ICA Marquee
• Mlambe Motel
• Comesa Hall
She has performed at renowned festivals and events, including: Sand Music Festival, Blantyre Arts Festival and Mibawa Gospel Gold
LEADERSHIP AND INDUSTRY IMPACT
A strong advocate for Malawian artists, Gloria has taken on leadership roles in the music industry:
- President of the Musicians Union of Malawi (MUM) (2019-2022)
- Pioneer and Board Member of Arts SACCO
- Former Board Member of Malawian Artists Welfare Fund
Her relentless dedication to gospel music, mentorship, and artistic advocacy has made her a household name in Malawi’s entertainment industry.
LEGACY AND INFLUENCE
Gloria Kampingu continues to inspire through her music, leadership, and contributions to the arts. She remains an active figure in Malawi’s music industry, using her platform to nurture upcoming artists and advocate for the welfare of musicians across the country. Her journey reflects passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to gospel music and the arts.