South African Maskandi powerhouses UGatsheni and Umafikizolo have confirmed their presence as the headlining acts for the first-ever Public Transport Festival, popularly known as Taxi Fest.
Scheduled for April 4, 2026 at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre, the festival represents a landmark partnership between the Creative Collabo Foundation and the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.
This event serves as a national stage to honour the vital contributions of transport workers, including drivers, conductors and operators, while advocating for professional excellence and road safety.
Beyond the music, the heart of the event lies in the Public Transport Festival Awards.
This ceremony will shine a spotlight on those who keep the nation moving. Categories include Driver of the Year, Safety Excellence Award, Customer Service Excellence and Public Transport Company of the Year. The entertainment line-up promises high energy for local Maskandi enthusiasts.
UGatsheni, a familiar face who left a lasting impression at the 2025 Makoti Festival, returns with his signature hits such as ‘Hit after Hit’, ‘Ngicula Isingisi’ and ‘Yimi Umalume’.
Joining him is Umafikizolo, renowned for his chart-topping track ‘Uyoncengwa Unyoko’. He is also a familiar figure in the country.
His last performance in Eswatini was at the Teacher’s Day Bash, an event organised by SNAT in 2025, where he shared the stage with South African artist Sjava and local talent.
Known for his electrifying dance moves and stage presence, Umafikizolo will perform fan favourites such as ‘Ngimile Mpo’ and ‘Awsukanini’. The event promises a star-studded line-up, adding on South African acts such as Blaq Major, Navigator, Hawu-Uzalo and DJ Maku.
Local talents will also light up the stage, including Zulu D, Sbu Drum DJ, Linda Dlamini, Shongwe and Khuphuka, Young Zesh, Culolam and many more.
With hosts Thando, Sintour, Putsununu and Nqaba guiding the festivities, attendees can expect an energetic and engaging experience from start to finish.
This festival marks a unique intersection of culture and industry. It turns a spotlight on the often-overlooked heroes of the road. With a blend of prestigious awards and top-tier Maskandi performances, Taxi Fest is set to be a standout highlight for the 2026 calendar.
Organisers believe the initiative will foster a sense of pride within the transport sector.
By combining high-stakes recognition with popular entertainment, the event aims to bridge the gap between service providers and the commuting public. Tickets are expected to sell fast as fans gear up for a day of cultural celebration and professional acknowledgement.
As the industry prepares for this debut event, the focus remains firmly on the people behind the wheel. The collaboration with the ministry ensures that the message of road safety remains at the forefront of the festivities.
Black Major. (Courtesy pics)