By Phumzile Ndlovu
MBABANE — In an epic performance, Linda Dlamini transformed the Holy Ghost Party Festival into a night of spiritual upliftment, captivating the audience with his electrifying presence. The festival took place at the Mbabane Alliance Church and drew hundreds of gospel lovers eager to experience a night of worship and celebration.
The event kicked off just after 6 pm starting with a gospel ensemble known as Eagles Wings, which set an uplifting tone for the evening. A standout moment was Dlamini’s collaboration with Lutsango whose performance mesmerized attendees with impressive coordination and energy.
Directed by the dynamic duo of Thamie Pastor Bae Ndlovu, the 2024 Eswatini Creators Award Best MC and Nkubra Vilakazi, the festival was made possible by Kufeziwe Communications. As the night progressed, the performances of the gospel artists kept the audience on their feet, singing along and dancing. The only notable absence was South African artist Mpumi Mtsweni who did not attend.
Dlamini expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from the Emaswati, stating, “I am thankful for everyone who showed up in numbers. I promised a great show, and I believe we delivered.”
A highlight of the evening was when South African artist Takie Ndou invited Sphiwo Ndoni on stage to perform Ndoni’s hit track Tive Temhlaba, which was well-received by the audience. The festival concluded with a high-energy performance by Shongwe of Shongwe neKhuphuka. When he played his hit song Konke Kuhamba kahle, the crowd erupted in appreciation, dancing along with the legendary artist.
The festival showcased a diverse lineup of local and South African gospel artists, including:
– Linda Dlamini
– Takie Ndou
– Nozipho Phiri
– Khanya Sibanyoni
– Local performers: Ndunduzo Matse, Nothando Hlophe, Nothando Dlamini, Shongwe Nekhuphuka, and Sphiwo Ndoni.
Linda Dlamini initiated the Holy Ghost Party Festival in 2021, with the inaugural event taking place in Johannesburg at the Alexandra GNF Auditorium. The most recent festival was held in September in Manzini at the Metropolitan Church.
According to Dlamini, the primary purpose of the festival is to win souls through gospel music, with the hope that the rest of the festivities serve as a bonus. He believes organizing such events not only uplifts the community but also inspires other musicians.
As anticipation builds for future festivals, attendees can look forward to evenings filled with uplifting performances and a strong sense of community spirit.
