BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MALKERNS— Makoti goes traditional!
The fifth edition of the highly anticipated festival this year has added more spice to its pots as they introduce a traditional attire competition to win free tickets to the festival.
This year’s edition will be held at Malkerns Country Club on 25 April 2026.
Festival Director Thembinkosi Mthethwa expressed that this year the Makoti Team decided to go big on traditional attire, and the response on social media so far has been overwhelming. “Lets rock Imvunulo at MAKOTI FESTIVAL this year. Of course, other outfits are still allowed. We decided to give our patrons the options on what to wear, so they are not limited by budget constraints. As you know, designer outfits can be at times costly, so everyone should attend the festival in whatever they are comfortable in. Either its traditional attire or designer dresses, all is welcome.”
He added that they have also put up a competition on social media. He said, “Drop your picture rocking Imvunulo and stand a chance to win a ticket to Makoti Festival 25 April at Malkerns Country Club.”
Rules and Guidelines of the Competition:
- Participants with the three pictures that have the most likes will be selected.
- Deadline of the competition is 30 January 2026.
- Make sure you share the post after dropping your pictures (otherwise your picture won’t be counted).
The highly anticipated cultural celebration presented by NewLife Entertainment and Illa PenBoy Foundation returns to the Malkerns Country Club on 25 April 2026, marking its fifth and most exciting edition yet.
Mthethwa also confirmed that tickets are now available across all major selling platforms, including Computicket, Howler, Moja Ticket, and the festival’s official website. He added that tickets will be sold in three phases:
Ticket Prices
GENERAL TICKETS
- Phase 1: E200
- Phase 2: E250
- Phase 3: E300
VIP TICKETS
- Phase 1: E500
- Phase 2: E650
- Phase 3: E750
Mthethwa promised an even bigger and more vibrant experience for festival-goers, revealing that fans should expect a series of exciting announcements in the coming weeks—including the reveal of artists, DJs, and special guests who will headline the 2026 edition.
Looking Back at the 4th Edition
The fourth edition of the Makoti Festival was successfully held on 26 April 2025, also at the Malkerns Country Club. The event brought together artists and DJs from across the region, representing Eswatini (host), South Africa, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Botswana.
The main MCs were Mzwakhe “Tjovitjo” Khumalo and Siphesihle Nkwanyana, with guest MCs Buhle (Nobuhle Glennette Ndlovu) of Ligwalagwala FM and Moska Saeed Mositi from Lesotho.
The star-studded 2025 line-up included:
- Eswatini: Shongwe Ne Khuphuka, Young Zesh, Gogo Mpila, King Kanga, Siyinqaba, Mshikishi, Young Love, DJ MBO, Master P, and more.
- South Africa: Dr. Rebecca Malope, Khuzani “uGatsheni” Ndlovu, and Phumla Music.
- Mozambique: Lizha James and DJ Supaman.
- Lesotho: Ntate Stunna, DJ Tseko, and DJ Mekonko.
- Botswana: Khumagadi.
Growing Festival Brand
Since its inception in April 2022, the Makoti Festival has grown into one of the region’s most influential cultural events. Earlier in 2025, the festival conducted media launches in Mbombela (South Africa), Lesotho, and Maputo (Mozambique)—a clear sign of its expanding regional footprint.
The 2026 Makoti Festival continues its mission as a family-oriented cultural celebration rooted in Eswatini traditions. The festival honours women—married, unmarried, and young girls preparing for their future roles as makotis.
Next year’s event will feature:
- Cultural showcases
- Trendy fashion exhibitions
- Food and craft stalls
- Regional music and live performances
- A vibrant display of Eswatini heritage
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(Courtesy Pic)
