The University of Eswatini (UNESWA) grounds came alive on Saturday as artists from various genres united to advocate against gender-based violence (GBV) at the One Billion Rising Festival.
The event featured a mix of established and emerging performers who used their talents to inspire and raise awareness, drawing a diverse crowd eager to support the cause.
Opening the festival, gospel artist Nothando Hlophe set an empowering tone with a Methodist Medley and a duet with her fan Simphiwe Ncongwane. The line-up included moving spiritual performances by Linda Dlamini and Gcina Masuku, while Lady Zee energised the youth with vibrant DJ sets. Thaifoson captivated the audience with his popular track ‘Badede’ and Msimisi encouraged attendees to sing along during his closing song.
Poetry was a highlight, with Dzeli The Poet delivering three heartfelt pieces alongside vocalist Zandi and guitarist Samkelo Dlamini. Cece inspired the crowd with his rendition of ‘You Raise Me Up’ and Cy Ndukwemnyama’s song ‘Vuma’ was met with enthusiastic applause.
The festival also showcased young talent from groups such as Mbikwakhe Kasi Stage Artists and Qhawe Lesizwe, who performed song, dance, and drama, adding fresh energy to the event.
Supported by a broad coalition of organisations, the One Billion Rising Festival demonstrated the power of creative expression in electrifying communities to stand against GBV and promote lasting social change.
OUR PUPILS ARE MOST VULNERABLE – TEACHER
THE Siteki School for the Deaf and Ka-Zakhali Primary School brought vibrant energy and important messages to the One Billion Rising Festival through captivating dance performances that raised awareness about gender-based violence (GBV).
Pupils from Siteki School for the Deaf danced along to meaningful songs designed to sensitise the crowd on the realities of GBV. Teacher Nomvula Ndzimandze expressed gratitude for the school’s involvement.
“We were happy to have been a part of the festival after One Billion Rising came to our school to sensitise pupils on such issues,” she said.
Ndzimandze also emphasised the vulnerability of their pupils, highlighting the importance of education and awareness in protecting them.
Over 30 Ka-Zakhali Primary School pupils also impressed the audience with a dance performance inspired by Indian dance traditions.
Teacher and professional dancer Abilashini Nageshwararaj shared how the school became part of the festival.
“We became a part of the festival when Colani saw us dancing at our graduation, so she wanted to put our production here. Learning about the initiative of the festival, we were deeply touched because it is something that should be educated to children, a very needed initiative,” she said.
Nageshwararaj, who has performed at prestigious events such as the Makoti Festival and for Their Majesties, added that preparing for the festival was a meaningful experience blending her passion for dance and commitment to education.
