BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MALKERNS – A new wave of musical ambition is sweeping across Eswatini as the highly anticipated MTN Bushfire Firefly competition returns – brighter, bolder, and hungrier for fresh talent.
Widely recognized as the country’s most influential youth music platform, Firefly has become the launchpad for aspiring vocalists seeking national exposure.Applications for the 9th edition are officially open from December 3, 2025, to January 30, 202, marking the beginning of the race to discover Eswatini’s next breakout star.
Firefly’s legacy of elevating young talent continues to shine. During the 2025 Grand Finale held on April 24 at House On Fire, three exceptional performers—Celumusa Mkhaliphi, Hapkoo, and Ace Julz—dominated the competition. Their success earned them a coveted performance slot on the MTN Bushfire Main Festival Stage, reinforcing Firefly’s reputation as a gateway to national and international recognition. These achievements set a powerful tone for the 2026 edition, inspiring a new generation of hopefuls to step forward
WHO CAN APPLY
The call is now open to young creatives ready to share their talent with the nation. Eligible applicants must be:
– Aged 16–35 years
– Residents of Eswatini
– Vocalists, singers, or rappers
– Able to submit a complete Electronic Press Kit (EPK)
– Prepared to submit at least two original songs
– Performance experience (an added advantage)
APPLICATIONS OPEN: HOW TO SUBMIT
From December 3, 2025, to January 30, 2026, artists can apply by submitting their EPK through the official portal: [www.bush-fire.com/firefly]
A strong EPK should include:
– A clear, engaging artist bio
– At least 1 high-resolution press photo
– 2–3 of your best tracks with valid streaming links
– A neatly packaged single PDF or well-organized Google Drive/Dropbox folder
Judges will assess originality, song quality, creativity, and overall star presence, so applicants are urged to take time crafting their best submissions.
Since its inception, over 160 young artists have participated in Firefly, with more than 120 using the platform to advance their music careers both locally and abroad. Alumni such as Symphony, Mandisa Mamba, Mzwaa, Sarnilo, MNation, and others remain living proof of the platform’s impact and credibility.
THE JOURNEY TO THE FINALE
The Firefly competition follows a dynamic, multi-stage process:
- Judges shortlist the Top 20
- Public voting determines the Top 10
- The Top 10 compete live at the Firefly Grand Finale on April 24, 2026, at House On Fire
- Judges’ scores and public votes decide the final Top 3
As excitement builds for the 2026 edition, MTN Bushfire Firefly continues to stand as one of Eswatini’s most transformative artistic platforms—a stage where raw talent is discovered, celebrated, and elevated. With past winners like Velumusa Mkhaliphi, Hapkoo, and Ace Julz proving how far this journey can lead, the message is clear: Firefly is not merely a competition; it is a powerful launchpad shaping the next generation of local music stars.
For young artists across the country who are Young. Gifted. Free., this is your moment. The stage is set. The nation is watching. And your fire could be the next to blaze.
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