BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA ( INTERN)
MANZINI – Under glowing lights and pulsing beats, hundreds gathered in Manzini for Taxi Fest 2026, drawn together by music, movement and shared celebration.
For many attendees, the festival unfolded as more than just a night out, becoming a vibrant space where music and human connection intertwined. From the moment the gates opened, groups of revellers streamed in, filling the venue with colour, energy and anticipation. As the music began, the crowd quickly transformed into a sea of movement, with dancing, singing and cheering carrying on into the early hours.
Taxi Fest 2026 delivered a seamless blend of genres, reflecting the diversity of Eswatini’s music scene. Local artists Sancheziey and Young Zesh emerged as crowd favourites, igniting excitement as fans responded enthusiastically to their performances. Their sets created a shared rhythm among festival-goers, turning the venue into a unified chorus of voices and energy.
The evening also carried a reflective undertone in line with the Easter period, as gospel artist Linda Dlamini took to the stage. Her performance added depth to the night, weaving moments of upliftment into the high-energy atmosphere while keeping audiences engaged.
Emerging talent found its place alongside established names, with Hapkoo, one of the MTN Bushfire Firefly winners, commanding attention with a confident performance. The inclusion of a familiar face from Uzalo, known for the phrase “Hawu ley’ ntombi”, added an element of excitement, drawing cheers from the crowd and reinforcing the festival’s broad appeal.
Behind the decks, DJs ensured the energy remained constant. DJ Bandora set the tone during the AM hours with hip hop selections, while Blaq Major carried the momentum into the early morning, keeping the dancefloor alive.
By the close of the event, Taxi Fest 2026 had not only delivered a night of entertainment but also created a shared experience, where music, culture and community came together in one unforgettable celebration.
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