…Singer promises to debut new music alongside Karyn White on international stage
BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MBABANE– Barely a year after flying Eswatini’s flag at the prestigious Standard Bank Joy of Jazz in South Africa, celebrated African soul singer Velemseni Ndzimandze is preparing for another defining moment in her career.
Next Friday, the acclaimed vocalist will become the only Eswatini singer to perform at the inaugural MOAFEST Divas in Mozambique. She will share the stage with legendary US R&B singer Karyn White, South African stars Kelly Khumalo and Zahara, Mozambican powerhouse Lizha James, and other celebrated African artists in what promises to be one of the region’s biggest musical showcases. It’s worth highlighting that DJ Cup born Zama Welcome Maseko is the only DJ from the kingdom who will take over the decks on Saturday.
For Velemseni, the invitation came as both a surprise and confirmation that years of hard work are beginning to open international doors.
“Being selected as the only Swazi singer at MOAFEST was honestly a surprise, but such a career-affirming moment because I have never performed in Mozambique as a solo artist,” she said during an exclusive interview.
The singer noted that September is fast becoming a landmark month in her career.
“This time last year we were gearing up to perform at Joy of Jazz Festival. Now we are preparing for another major international festival, and I am excited to share our unique sound with our neighbours.”
The booking marks another significant milestone for an artist whose soulful storytelling and guitar-driven sound have steadily earned recognition beyond Eswatini’s borders.
Representing the Kingdom on an international stage carries immense pride, she said, especially at a time when African artists are commanding global attention.
“It means a great deal to represent Eswatini on such a great platform. I feel that as an African artist, I am being raised to the global stage, and we are so ready.”
She described the current moment as an exciting era for African music, saying she was grateful that the team’s dedication was finally receiving international recognition.
Adding even more significance to the occasion is the opportunity to perform alongside Karyn White, whose timeless hits have inspired generations across the continent.
“Karyn White is one of those musical icons whose music we enjoyed growing up. Her songs paint memories of my childhood, and she has contributed to my musical journey. It is really special to be called to share the stage with such amazing artists.”
While this will be her first experience at MOAFEST, Velemiseni is already looking forward to immersing herself in Mozambique’s vibrant culture.
“I know Mozambican people love and respect artists, and they are warm and lively people. I expect good food, interesting music and amazing weather.”
She also has a heartfelt message for emaSwati, urging supporters to cross the border and fill the festival grounds with national pride.
“Swazi supporters should definitely make the trip. The pride we witness when other nationalities come to Bushfire is so powerful that we must experience that too. We must see those Swazi flags in the crowd.”
Festival-goers can expect a performance that stays true to the signature Velemiseni sound while embracing the celebratory spirit of spring.
“Our set will be a groovy African soul performance with unique sounds and a heavy guitar influence. The crowd can expect fun, sultry swaying energy.”
The performance will also offer fans something they have never heard before.
Velemseni revealed that she plans to debut a brand-new song during her MOAFEST performance, describing it as a fresh sound that captures the festive mood of the season.
“I am brewing some new music, and I cannot wait to debut one of those songs on the MOAFEST stage. It echoes the celebratory energy that we are welcoming this spring.”
The singer believes consecutive international festival bookings prove that her artistic vision is evolving exactly as planned.
“These major bookings signify growth and elevation, exactly what we have been working towards.”
She said one of the most rewarding parts of the journey has been sharing these achievements with the musicians who have grown alongside her.
“I am playing with a mix of young and senior Swazi musicians, and witnessing this growth together means the world to me. I am proud of what we have accomplished and grateful to emaSwati for the constant support.”
Looking beyond MOAFEST, Velemseni has her sights set on expanding her collaborations across Africa. She named South African star Kelly Khumalo as one of her dream collaborators, praising her authenticity and magnetic voice.
She also hopes to work with Mozambican artists, sing in another African language and experiment with different genres and instruments.
As she prepares to step onto one of the biggest stages of her career, Velemiseni hopes audiences will leave with more than just memories of a performance.
“Our music is about hope, love and growth. I want people to feel seen and understood. I also want them to remember the magic we witnessed as children and find a moment of escape and freedom.”
Tickets for the festival are available through Carrot Tickets
https://www.carrottickets.com/event/moafest-moamba-international-festival-6a7c9208be858934b3b152b3
(Courtesy Pics)
