By Nosipho Mabuza (Intern)
MALKERNS – One of Eswatini’s rising culinary ventures, The Sprout, has been officially shortlisted as a trader for the highly anticipated 2025 Bushfire Festival, marking a major milestone for the local restaurant and its dynamic founder, Delisile Magagula.
Nestled in the heart of Malkerns, The Sprout is more than just a restaurant—it’s the culmination of a flavourful journey that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the height of the 2020 lockdown, Magagula tapped into her passion for cooking to create Deli’s Curry Paste—a shelf-stable, flavour-packed product that quickly won over palates across Eswatini. This innovation later gave birth to The Sprout Curry Joint in 2023, a vibrant space where the paste is transformed into boldly spiced curry dishes.
Now, in its first foray into the festival scene, The Sprout is preparing to impress thousands of festivalgoers with a curated menu that celebrates both local and global culinary influences.
“We want to take their taste buds to the limit,” Magagula shared enthusiastically. “Our menu is exciting, flavourful, and most importantly—affordable.”
Being selected as a trader at MTN Bushfire, one of Africa’s premier cultural celebrations is no small feat. For Magagula, the opportunity is about more than just having a food stall—it’s a moment of recognition.
“There is no better feeling than getting experts to trust and believe in your craft,” she said. “Opportunities like this give you the courage to keep pushing your brand.”
She admits that preparing for the festival hasn’t been easy, citing the scale and prestige of the event. But with support from stakeholders and a strong, well-trained team, she’s confident they’re ready.
“We work well under pressure. Our staff is trained in prompt service and excellent customer care. We’ve even set up a shift system to ensure everyone stays fresh and energized.”
Participation in Bushfire is also a strategic brand visibility move. With The Sprout’s physical location nearby, the exposure is expected to drive post-festival traffic.
“This event will bring the mileage our brand deserves. It shows we’re not just serving locals—we’re capable of meeting international standards.”
The Sprout’s commitment to collaboration and empowerment is another highlight. The restaurant has already partnered with Wezos Kitchen, a prominent name in Eswatini’s culinary scene, and looks forward to teaming up with chef and entrepreneur Nowezo Ginindza.
“Empowering locals who share our dream is one of our core goals. These partnerships help us grow faster and gain valuable experience.”
Looking ahead, Magagula sees Bushfire as a springboard to bigger opportunities.
“We hope to connect with key stakeholders, gain industry recognition, and raise capital to grow our business. Maybe even expand and create jobs for more EmaSwati.”
With her eyes set on future festivals and a heart full of gratitude, she concludes:
“This is just the beginning. We’re ready to bring the fire—and the flavour.”
Follow The Sprout’s journey at the 2025 Bushfire Festival—and taste the passion that started in a jar.
