MBABANE - The countdown has officially begun for the fifth edition of Makoti Festival, the cultural celebration is set to return to the Malkerns Country Club on April 25, 2026.
Festival Director Thembinkosi Mthethwa revealed that tickets will be available across all major selling platforms. The tickets will be available on Howler, Instacash, Computicket, Mojaticket and the festival’s official website, this week from Friday, November 28, 2025, urging the public to purchase early. He added that fans should expect a series of exciting announcements in the coming weeks, including the reveal of artists, DJs and special guests who will headline the 2026 edition.
“Next year’s build-up officially kicks off, promising an even bigger and more vibrant experience for festivalgoers and people must watch this space for more updates,” Mthethwa said.
Earlier this year, the fourth edition of the Makoti Festival was successfully held on April 26, 2025, also at the Malkerns Country Club. The event brought together artists and DJs from across the region, representing Eswatini the host, South Africa, Mozambique, Lesotho and Botswana.
The main MCs were Mzwakhe ‘Tjovitjo’ Khumalo and Siphesihle Nkwanyana, while guest MCs included Buhle (Nobuhle Glennette Ndlovu) of Ligwalagwala FM and Moska Saeed Mositi from Lesotho.
The fourth edition of this year’s line- up included DJs and artists from different countries. Eswatini artists included Shongwe Ne Khuphuka, Young Zesh, Gogo Mpila, Siyinqaba, The Bishop, Culolam, Sbu The Drum DJ. South African artists included Rebecca Malope, Khuzani ‘uGatsheni’ Ndlovu and Phumla Music. Mozambique artists included Lizha James and DJ Supaman. Lesotho artists who performed during the event were Ntate Stunna, DJ Tseko and DJ Mekonko. Botswana was also represented by traditional music sensation Khumagadi .
Since its inception in April 2022, the Makoti Festival has grown into one of the region’s most influential cultural events. The brand conducted media launches in March this year in Mbombela, South Africa, Lesotho and Mozambique, signalling its expanding footprint.
The 2026 Makoti Festival continues its mission as a family-oriented cultural celebration. Rooted in Eswatini traditions, the festival honours women, married and unmarried and young girls learning to embrace their future roles as makotis.
Next year’s event will feature cultural showcases, trendy fashion exhibitions, food and craft stalls, regional music and live performances.
Dr Rebecca Malope gave an impressive and energetic performance.