MTN Bushfire calls for experienced vendors specialising in high quality food, craft and experiential services to apply for the opportunity to trade at the 19th edition of the MTN Bushfire international festival of music and the arts.
The festival will take place at House on Fire in Eswatini’s scenic Malkerns Valley from May 29-31, 2026.
In 2025, MTN Bushfire traders generated E10.3 million in sales.
MTN Bushfire Communications Manager Phiwo Mandi Dhlamini said this was the traders’ chance to be part of the festival’s impact in supporting Eswatini’s creative economy while showcasing products to the festival’s multicultural audience of over 23 000 from 55 countries.
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She said the trader application process was facilitated online, application forms were available through the MTN Bushfire website; www.bush-fire.com and applications submitted by other means will not be considered. Dhlamini encouraged aspiring festival traders to read thoroughly the info packs provided on the website before filling in their applications for detailed guidance on the festival’s selection criteria, the mandatory quality and sustainability standards. She said trader applications would close January 28, 2026 and final selections will be made by February 27.
“Due to the volume of applications that we anticipate to receive, only successful candidates will be contacted. If you have not received a response by the end of February, please consider your application unsuccessful. Shortlisted candidates will be requested to present their products and stall ideas, as well as attend a compulsory in-person trader workshop at House On Fire.
“As a winner of Best Responsible Event at the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards in 2017 and powered by the festival’s #greenyourfire environmental sustainability mandate, MTN Bushfire promotes socially and environmentally sustainable policies and practices throughout the product value chain, in collaboration with packaging and recycling partners.
As such, all festival traders are required to use bio-degradable packaging,’ said Dhlamini.
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Adding, she said aspiring traders are expected to demonstrate their experience, high quality products and alignment with MTN Bushfire’s socially and environmentally conscious philosophy, with preference given to products that are sourced and produced locally and use eco-friendly packaging. She said the festival’s trader policies were inclusive, small business focused while promoting ethical and fair trade. She emphasised that applicants will be assessed on the basis of quality and uniqueness, creativity, experience, considered professional setup as well as quality of customer service.
“Traders are reminded that MTN Bushfire is a 100% cashless environment using the NFC chips on festival wristbands for transactions. Training on the cashless system will be provided.
“We look forward to receiving your application, and to see how you can #bringyourfire in 2026. For any queries relating to trading at the festival please email traders@bush-fire.com,” she said.
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