derick.khumalo
Mthabisi Tshuma
[email protected]
THE inaugural Afro Music Festival transformed Braamfontein in Johannesburg into a vibrant celebration of African music, culture and creativity on July 25, with organisers already setting their sights on bringing the second edition to Bulawayo.
Organised by Ezebhubesi The Lion’s Pride, the festival was conceived as an annual platform to celebrate African artistic expression while creating opportunities for emerging and established performers to showcase their talent on one stage.
The event featured an eclectic mix of musicians, dancers, poets, DJs, cultural groups, fashion designers and other creatives, reflecting the richness and diversity of African entertainment. Beyond the performances, the festival sought to unite communities through the universal language of music while fostering collaboration across different artistic disciplines.
Revellers were treated to performances from established and rising acts, including Jaycee Rappadict, hip-hop artiste Teekay Mxoexic, traditional dance ensemble Nondabele, rhumba sensation King Nation, Ramz Gumboots Dance Group, Amapiano and Lekompo performer Crispy Yanga, poet Mkhululi Nyathi, social media personality Mfazi Wenkayi, and Maskandi artistes Inxele Lisakaselo and Iqhawe’linamandla.
Other performers included Peba Naledi, Isangoma Sezulu, Shuni Yengwayo, Sie and Fountain of Life (Gospel), Muntuza Dotcom, gospel singer Diva Mahlahla, Donald Donn3y Mlalazi, Mkhiwa Omhle, Harmony African, poet Josh Ngomane, Tboss The Boss, Stapura Mdu and Bulawayo-based artiste Thuli Sithimbili, who travelled from Zimbabwe for the event.
Hosting duties were shared by Lady Boohle, Mfazi Wenkayi and Sandy Ndlovu, who kept the audience entertained throughout the day.
Speaking after the festival, Ezebhubesi The Lion’s Pride founder said the event was born out of a desire to provide meaningful platforms for emerging artistes who often struggle to access professional stages.
“I started this festival after recognising that many gifted artistes, especially emerging and independent performers, often have limited opportunities to perform on professional stages and connect with wider audiences,” he said.
“The aim was also to build unity and create better working conditions within the arts industry.
“We are looking forward to hosting the second edition of the Afro Music Festival in the City of Kings and Queens, Bulawayo, possibly in October if all goes according to plan. We want to bring our original sound to Zimbabwe.”
With its successful debut in South Africa, the Afro Music Festival now looks poised to expand its footprint, promising Zimbabwean audiences a celebration of African music and culture while strengthening cross-border creative exchanges between artistes from across the continent.
