BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI– The creative sector gathered in its numbers at Julios Cinelux, Lifestyle Centre, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, for the official launch of the national events calendar.
Organised by the Eswatini Events Managers and Promoters Association (EEMPA) in collaboration with the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC), the launch serves as a strategic roadmap to professionalize the Kingdom’s vibrant festival industry.
The event was officially opened by legendary musician and EEMPA member Itallo Dlamini, who emphasized that the calendar is vital for unveiling all major cultural and entertainment gatherings in the kingdom to avoid clashing dates and ensure industry growth. Throughout the session, festival organizers called for increased local investment and government support to ensure the sustainability of the sector.
Major Festivals Announce 2026 Dates
Several flagship events presented their visions for the upcoming season:
- House Musiq Fest (March 28): Celebrating its 7th anniversary, the festival is diversifying its lineup to include contemporary genres like Gqom to attract younger audiences.
- Makoti Festival (May 2, 2026): Marking 5 years at the Malkerns Country Club, the event will focus on elevating women through traditional regalia and culture.
- Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival (August 1–2): Following a record attendance of over 11,000 people last year, the festival will now expand to a two-day weekend event to accommodate its growing international audience.
- Taxi Festival (April 4, 2026): This unique event celebrates the contribution of taxi drivers and conductors, with a commitment to featuring 85% local talent.
- Swazi Rally: Now in its 33rd year, this three-day bikers’ event continues to draw participants from across Africa, significantly contributing to the national economy.
A Plea for Local Sponsorship
A recurring theme was the challenge of securing financial backing. Culolam, representing the Eswatini Farmers Market and MoMo Xperience, revealed interest from international sponsors but appealed for local businesses to step up.
“We do not need to go outside the country to ask for sponsorships; we want to grow with the help of local support,” Culolam stated, while also urging town boards to reconsider venue booking fees. Similar sentiments were echoed by representatives of Talent Factory, Swazi Polo, Umuthi Fest, and Ntjilo Ntjilo Festival.
Regulatory Move to Protect the Sector
ENCAC CEO Stanley Dlamini commended the initiative but issued a stern warning regarding unregulated shows. He urged EEMPA to create strict regulations to ensure the industry does not collapse due to “intruders”.
“The industry must regulate itself. It is important that all shows have the stamp from EEMPA before they are marketed,” Dlamini emphasized. He further noted that the festival sector is a major employer, justifying a need for government financial support.
The CEO also announced the upcoming Arts Summit, which will dedicate three days to the professionalisation of the industry: Day 1 (Music), Day 2 (Festivals), and Day 3 (Films/Cultural Production). The summit is expected to bring together authorities in the sector to foster networking and sustainable growth strategies.
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(Courtesy Pic)
