Eswatini has recently witnessed an influx of South African artists performing across the country, captivating audiences and energising the entertainment scene over the past three weeks.
A series of high-profile events featuring some of South Africa’s biggest names have been hosted. The month began with Thatohatsi SA headlining the Shades and Shorts Party on October 3 at Mdzimba View Shisanyama.
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The momentum continued the following day when Azana graced the All Black Party at Espinho Restaurant and Bar. That same weekend saw Siya Ntuli, Khuthuza and Dumezweni leading performances at the Lubombo Shutdown, drawing huge crowds.
A week later, on October 11, Swazi Polo at Yellowstone, Swazi Lizkhar, hosted South African stars Enhle Mbali and Thapelo Mokoena, further cementing the country’s growing reputation as a top regional entertainment destination. On the same day, over five SA artists, including Sun-El Musician, MaWhoo, Morda, Kenza and Dudu RSA, headlined the Eswatini Farmers Market at Malkerns, which drew an overwhelming turnout.
The entertainment buzz continued the following weekend when nine South African acts Blaq Diamond, Naledi Aphiwe, Mlindo The Vocalist, Donald, Mawelele, Xolwa, Aubrey Qwana, Siya Ntuli and Makhosi lit up the stage at the Umuthi Fest held at the Mavuso Trade Centre this past weekend.
Their performances left the crowd yearning for more and reinforced the event’s growing popularity.
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According to Eswatini Events Managers and Promoters Association (EEMPA) Secretary General Banele Dlamini the surge of South African acts performing locally reflected a positive shift in the local entertainment industry.
He noted that Eswatini was ‘dominating in the industry’ and praised event organisers for their commitment to delivering on their promises. “Over the past three weeks, we have recognised a growing number of SA acts coming into the country. We are thankful to the organisers for keeping their word and ensuring that the artists announced actually make it to perform,” Dlamini said.
He further highlighted that transparency between organisers and the public was crucial in building trust and excitement around events as he encouraged promoters to work closely with artists ahead of their performances, particularly through social media engagement.
“We also urge organisers to contact the artists who will headline their events and have them share short videos confirming their attendance on Instagram. That effort matters a lot because it assures the public that the information is genuine,” he revealed.
Dlamini said the association was pleased with the improvements in the entertainment sector compared to previous years. He stated that the industry had made significant progress in terms of event planning, coordination and delivery.
“When compared to last year, we can see that there is a lot of improvement in how entertainment events are being organised. This month we witnessed three major groove events following each other, which shows we are now adhering to international standards of fun and experience,” he explained.
The secretary general further noted that aspects such as sound, stage projection and event quality had improved remarkably, reflecting a growing professionalism among local organisers. “We appreciate the way events are now being managed and how they meet quality standards. We encourage organisers to continue with this approach,” he added.
As the country continues to attract top regional acts, Dlamini reaffirmed EEMPA’s commitment to supporting and guiding local promoters in maintaining high standards that ensure the local entertainment industry remains vibrant, competitive, and safe for both performers and attendees.
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