UNCLE WAFFLES BRINGS THE FIRE HOME FOR MTN BUSHFIRE 2026

BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE

MALKERNS – Eswatini’s very own global Amapiano sensation, Lungelihle Zwane—professionally known as Uncle Waffles—is officially set to make her long-awaited debut at the MTN Bushfire 2026 festival.

The announcement has sent shockwaves of excitement through the Kingdom, confirming that the “Princess of Amapiano” will grace the main stage during the festival’s 19th edition from May 29 to May 31, 2026, at House On Fire. For local fans, this is more than just a booking; it is a historic homecoming for an artist who has become the Kingdom’s most influential cultural export.

Uncle Waffles’ music career is a masterclass in modern superstardom. Beyond the decks, she has solidified her status as a global style icon, recently reuniting with adidas to lead their Spring 2026 Superstar campaign. This partnership places Lungelihle alongside international legends like Samuel L. Jackson and K-pop star JENNIE, marking her as the face of the “three-stripe” brand across Africa.

Musically, she continues to break glass ceilings. After her breakout single “Tanzania” earned 7x Platinum status and was famously sampled by Beyoncé on the Renaissance World Tour, she made history as the first Amapiano act to perform at Coachella. Her discography, including the gold-certified Asylum and hits like “Yahyuppiyah,” has earned her BET Award nominations and a permanent spot on the global stage.

The World Tour Legacy

Waffles arrives at Bushfire fresh from a triumphant global schedule. Throughout 2026, she has been dominating European arenas alongside Kaytranada, performing at iconic venues such as the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam, Berlin’s Uber Arena, and The O2 in London. Despite headlining for tens of thousands across Paris and New York, her return to the Malkerns Valley is the “blazing homecoming” her home fans have been waiting for.

While the spotlight shines on Uncle Waffles, the festival remains a beacon for diverse global sounds. London-based jazz collective KOKOROKO has been revealed as the first international music act for the 2026 lineup. Their horn-led blend of highlife and afrobeat will offer a soulful balance to Lungelihle’s high-octane energy.

MTN Bushfire remains as a socially responsible platform dedicated to more than just entertainment. Since its inception, the festival has used its global stage to promote social change, donating 100% of its profits to local charities like Young Heroes. As the 19th edition approaches, the return of Lungelihle Zwane ensures that the 2026 flame will burn brighter than ever, proving that an Eswatini-born dream can indeed take over the world.