BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MALKERNS– The fire burns brighter once again as MTN Bushfire officially marks another historic milestone, with tickets for its 19th edition selling out for the 14th consecutive year. The achievement further cements its reputation as one of Africa’s most enduring and globally celebrated cultural festivals.
Set for May 29 to 31 at the iconic House On Fire in Malkerns, the festival is expected to welcome over 23 000 festivalgoers from 22 countries, reinforcing its position as a major international cultural destination.
This year’s edition unfolds under the theme “The Juncture of Hum”, which celebrates the shared rhythm created when artists, audiences, and communities come together through music, creativity, and collective expression.
Festival organisers expressed deep gratitude to loyal supporters, known as “Fire Starters,” whose continued commitment has driven yet another complete sell-out. They described the milestone as a powerful reflection of the festival’s growing global influence and strong community spirit.
Over nearly two decades, MTN Bushfire has evolved beyond a music festival into a globally recognised platform for African creativity, cultural exchange, sustainability, and social impact. It continues to position Eswatini as a vibrant hub in the international creative landscape.
This year’s programme promises a dynamic and immersive experience across six stages, featuring international headliners, Pan-African collaborations, and homegrown talent. Festivalgoers can also expect theatre, spoken word poetry, wellness spaces, interactive art installations, and community-driven activations throughout the grounds.
One of the most anticipated highlights is the homecoming performance of Eswatini-born Amapiano star Uncle Waffles, whose return is expected to electrify the Main Stage and stand out as a defining moment of the festival.
The line-up also features internationally acclaimed acts such as Kokoroko, Moonchild Sanelly, Young Stunna, and the Ndlovu Youth Choir, adding depth and diversity to the musical experience.
Beyond entertainment, organisers have reaffirmed their strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Environmental awareness, eco-friendly practices, and creative engagement spaces will once again form a central part of the festival experience.
Attendees have also been urged to remain vigilant against ticket fraud following the sell-out announcement, with organisers advising the public to avoid unofficial resale platforms and to protect ticket barcode details from public sharing.
Only the official resale platform is recommended for safe transactions, while early wristband collection is set to begin on May 26 to ease entry congestion ahead of opening day.
As the countdown continues, MTN Bushfire 2026 is once again set to place Eswatini on the global stage—where music, culture, and human connection come together under one unforgettable fire.
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(Courtesy Pic)
