BY NELIWE NGUBANE (INTERN)
ZULWINI– Eswatini’s homegrown music scene is set to light up the stage at the Makoti Festival on 2 May 2026, with Malkerns Country Club hosting a full day of live performances, cultural expression, and entertainment. Headlining the event is South African sensation DJ Zinhle, while a powerhouse of local artists will showcase the kingdom’s vibrant musical talent.
Rising star MCO Jamrock, celebrated for his hit track “Cubuka”, expressed excitement over the opportunity: “I am very grateful for all the support. Without it, the music is nothing. Thanks to Makoti Festival for recognising my work,I promise I won’t disappoint.” He will perform alongside notable local acts including Lyrical Busts, Sarnilo, As4Jerry P, Young Zesh, True Classic, and Sancheziey, each bringing a distinct sound to the festival.
Festival organiser Thembinkosi Mthethwa highlighted the focus on nurturing local talent: “We select artists based on their current work and what we think the Makoti audience will enjoy. About 90% of our lineup is local talent. We want to give them the best experience and provide a mix of gospel, maskandi, live music, and DJs so everyone can enjoy.”
Tickets are currently in Phase 3, with general admission priced at E300 and VIP tickets at E750, available via Computicket, Howler, and Moja Ticket. Organisers emphasise that the festival is more than just music,it is a platform for local artists to gain exposure alongside established performers, blending music, fashion, and cultural exchange into one immersive experience.
From vibrant beats to heartfelt performances, the 2026 Makoti Festival promises to be a celebration of Eswatini’s rich musical landscape, offering audiences of all ages an unforgettable day of entertainment and cultural pride.
With its strong commitment to spotlighting local talent, this year’s festival is poised to leave a lasting impression, reinforcing Eswatini’s growing reputation as a hub for creativity and artistry.
#MakotiFestival2026 #EswatiniMusic #LocalLineUp #SupportLocalArtists #LiveMusic #CulturalExchange #DJZinhle #MCOJamrock #MakotiExperience
(Courtesy Pic)
