BY NELIWE NGUBANE(INTERN)
MAPUTO – The Festival Director of the Makoti Festival, Thembinkosi Mthethwa, took centre stage yesterday during the Mozambique media launch, where he officially introduced part of the festival’s lineup while sharing a strong message of African unity and cultural pride.
Speaking at the event in Maputo, Mthethwa highlighted the purpose behind the Makoti Festival, explaining that it goes beyond entertainment. He emphasised that the festival is a platform that brings people together from across the continent.
“Makoti festival is about promoting networking amongst different African cultures,” he said.
The media launch attracted artists, media representatives, and cultural stakeholders, all eager to learn more about what to expect from this year’s event. The announcement of the Mozambique lineup marks another step in expanding the festival’s regional influence.
Mthethwa also revealed this year’s theme, encouraging attendees to fully embrace their cultural identity through fashion. “This year’s theme is African attire so you come wearing your attire representing your culture,” he explained.
To make his message clear, he gave an example of traditional dress from across the continent, mentioning Lesotho attire as part of the rich diversity expected at the festival. He further added that he will personally lead by example on the day.
“As he will also be wearing ‘emajobo’ which are part of the Swazi attire wore by men,” he said.
The Makoti Festival continues to grow as a cultural movement that celebrates African traditions, unity, and identity. With preparations gaining momentum, the Maputo launch signals the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and cross-border collaboration.
As anticipation builds, festival-goers can expect not only music and entertainment but also a powerful cultural experience that connects people from different African backgrounds under one theme.
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