MTN Bushfire is backing Afro House duo Tribal Natives as they represent Eswatini at Zanzibar’s first FuTopia Festival this Friday to Sunday.
MTN Bushfire Communications Manager, Phiwo Dhlamini, confirmed the festival’s support, saying it was part of Bushfire’s mission to promote local talent and open global markets for Swati creatives.
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She explained that the support for Tribal Natives was a clear example of how Bushfire helps artists break boundaries and showcase their craft internationally.
According to Dhlamini, Bushfire’s legacy of supporting Eswatini talent continues to take centre stage, fueling new opportunities for artists.
She highlighted the partnership with Busara Promotions, organisers of Sauti za Busara and FuTopia, as part of a broader vision to create mobility for artists across Africa. This collaboration, she said, was proof of how festivals can strengthen each other and amplify African voices in music, art and culture.
“We believe Eswatini has a strong artistic voice and artists like Tribal Natives are showing the world what our country can offer. By supporting them, Bushfire is not only helping their journey, but also inspiring many other young creatives to believe in their craft,” Dhlamini stated.
One half of the duo, DJ Ash, described the Zanzibar performance as more than just another stage—a milestone for Eswatini’s creative voice.
“I am incredibly honoured to carry the fire of MTN Bushfire to Zanzibar for FuTopia 2025. This is not just a performance, but a milestone representing Eswatini’s creative voice reaching new horizons,” she said.
DJ Ash, known for her fearless Afrotech sets, emphasised that their performances were about more than entertainment—they celebrate identity, roots and unity through sound.
Her partner Nelsonx, who blends Swati and Mozambican roots with pop, EDM and Afro House, has also been making waves with his high-energy sets that bring depth and freshness to the Afro House scene.
Together, they have thrilled audiences at Bushfire, Luju and other major events in Eswatini. Now, they will bring that same energy to FuTopia, a festival that promises to become a major hub for African creativity.
The FuTopia Festival, organised by Busara Promotions, will transform Fumba Town in Zanzibar into a space for music, art, technology and lifestyle. For Tribal Natives, it is not only recognition of their work but also a chance to connect with other artists from across Africa.
DJ Ash concluded:
“We believe in the power of collaboration, and this partnership between MTN Bushfire and Busara Promotions proves what is possible when African festivals unite to amplify emerging artists. From Mbabane to Stone Town, we are ready to show that music is the bridge that connects our continent and its people.”
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