BY NOMSA DLAMINI
NHLANGANO – Excitement is sweeping through the Shiselweni region as the Shiselweni Arts Festival prepares to debut with a vibrant two-day celebration of creativity, culture, and community on 8 to 9 August 2025. Among the top highlights announced by organisers is the screening of the widely acclaimed Mahlaba The Street Kid Movie, set to captivate audiences during the festival.
Following a sold-out premiere in the Manzini-Mbabane corridor last month, the film will now be screened at Evelyn Baring High School in Nhlangano, giving Shiselweni residents a chance to witness what audiences in other regions have already lauded. The screenings are scheduled for Friday, 8 August at 3:00 PM and Saturday, 9 August at 2:00 PM.
Stanley Dlamini, CEO of the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC), welcomed the development, noting its significance for regional inclusion. “As many may recall, ‘Mahlaba The Street Kid movie’ enjoyed an incredible response in its first run. We felt it was important to extend this experience beyond urban centers, making sure the people of Shiselweni also get to enjoy quality local storytelling. This aligns with our mission to make the arts more accessible to all Emaswati,” he said.
The film features a strong ensemble cast made up of outstanding local talent alongside notable South African actors, adding to its cross-border appeal and production strength.
Beyond the film, the festival promises a rich program of performances and cultural showcases. On Friday, 8 August, activities will begin at 10:00 AM at the park, with an array of performances from school dance troupes, drama clubs, and music groups running until late. The following day, Saturday, 9 August, will start with a vibrant street festival at the Shoprite Complex, featuring stages for Maskandi, Hip Hop, Afro Pop, and Poetry.
The grand finale on Saturday evening will be the Gospel Festival at Bethsida Church, spotlighting the best of Shiselweni’s gospel music scene.
Adding to the festival’s momentum, the event will serve as a platform to promote the recently launched National Gospel Music Awards (NGMA), which had its official debut at The George Hotel with notable figures from the corporate and creative sectors in attendance.
Sipho Makhabane, NGMA’s Public Relations Officer, encouraged gospel musicians to participate: “Nominations are now open. We urge all gospel artists to visit the National Gospel Music Awards social media pages to download entry forms and submit their work before 25 August t deadline. This is your chance to be recognized and celebrated.”
