Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena [email protected]
Organisers of Isintu Fest UK have postponed this year’s edition to a later date in a show of solidarity with communities affected by the ongoing xenophobic elements in South Africa.
The festival, which was scheduled to take place on July 11 at the Holford Drive Community Hub in Birmingham, United Kingdom, has now been moved to September, with the new date yet to be announced.
In a statement, Isintu Fest director Sisa Senkosi said the decision was taken after careful consideration, stressing that it was important to stand with those affected during this difficult period.
“We have made the decision to postpone Isintu Fest UK, originally scheduled for 11 July. Right now, many members of our community are hurting. Out of solidarity and respect, we believe it is important to pause, hold space and focus on supporting one another. Holding a gathering at this moment simply does not feel right.
“We will share a rescheduled date in September as soon as possible, and your tickets will automatically transfer. Thank you for your continued support,” she said.
This year’s festival was set to be headlined by South African Maskandi heavyweights Ingane Zoma, The Q Twins, Mazilankatha, 2 Kidd, Zinjaziyamluma and Busi Mhlanga, among other artistes.
Adding further cultural significance to the event was the planned participation of a delegation from the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Cultural Awards, a cultural initiative spearheaded by Chief Dakamela of Nkayi in Matabeleland North.
Founded in 2023 by Zimbabwean-born, UK-based Maskandi artiste and cultural ambassador Sisa Senkosi, Isintu Fest was established to address the limited international exposure of Southern African traditional music genres and indigenous cultural expressions.
Since its inception, the festival has grown into an important platform for celebrating and preserving cultural heritage, particularly through genres such as Maskandi, rhumba and other traditional art forms that continue to shape Southern Africa’s cultural identity. Beyond entertainment, Isintu Fest seeks to reconnect members of the diaspora with their roots while promoting cultural pride, intergenerational learning and unity through the philosophy of Ubuntu.
