South Africa’s rich cultural heritage will once again take centre stage when the Mpumalanga Traditional Music Festival returns to eMalahleni this September, bringing together some of the country’s biggest names in traditional music for a celebration of culture, identity and heritage.
Following the success of its inaugural edition, the festival returns for its second instalment on 5 September 2026 at Puma Rugby Stadium in Witbank, promising a full day of live entertainment that showcases the diversity of South Africa’s traditional music landscape while promoting cultural pride and unity.
This year’s event boasts an impressive lineup of 34 performers representing a variety of traditional music genres from across the country. Festival-goers can look forward to performances by Maskandi sensation Mthandeni SK, legendary Ndebele artist Dr Nothembi Mkwebana and Eswatini-born artist Make Shelangubo, alongside popular acts including Mbeje, Menzi, Sfiso Masikane, Unjoko, Limit, Mzukulu, Letshepe LR, Mroza, Ustress, Izihlabani, Mnikezwa, Jaiva Zimnike, Inkosi Yamagcokana, Njabulo Langa, Swidi, Dr Buselaphi, Govozile, Mzukulu Kashafuza, Falabo, Mfana Ka T, Dlawmbana, Undzundza Zebhosa, Nsika Biyela, Zanele Nekwekwezi, Blessing, Mshushisi Gcwensa, Swenka Wamabhinca, Dumakahle, Sminofu, Feza and Mlabalaba.
Bringing additional excitement to the event, the festival will be hosted by renowned radio personality Penny Ntuli, whose vibrant presenting style has made her one of the country’s most recognisable broadcasters.
Speaking during the official media launch, performing artist Mlabalaba said festival-goers can expect an unforgettable celebration of South African heritage.
“5 September promises to be nothing short of a stellar day out in the sun at Puma Rugby Stadium in Witbank as our tradition, culture and music will be fully embraced,” he said.
The media briefing also featured appearances by viral internet personality Xolisani Mbeje and Intombi yebhinca, further highlighting the growing popularity of traditional music among younger audiences and across digital platforms.
According to festival spokesperson Ntokozo Buthelezi, the vision for the event extends far beyond entertainment.
“Our goal for this year is to give loyal followers of traditional music a variety of amazing performers from most parts of the country. We want the festival to remain in Mpumalanga and continue growing because our province lacks diverse cultural events that celebrate our heritage. Our primary goal is to preserve and celebrate our traditions while contributing to local economic development and showcasing the beautiful tourism attractions that Mpumalanga has to offer,” said Buthelezi.
In addition to celebrating music, the festival is expected to provide a valuable boost to the local economy by attracting visitors to eMalahleni and creating opportunities for local businesses, vendors and tourism operators.
With traditional music continuing to enjoy renewed popularity across South Africa, the festival has positioned itself as one of the country’s premier cultural events, offering audiences the opportunity to experience authentic performances while celebrating the traditions that continue to shape the nation’s identity.
From Maskandi and Ndebele music to performances representing different cultural communities from across Southern Africa, the Mpumalanga Traditional Music Festival promises an unforgettable showcase of rhythm, storytelling and heritage.
The second edition of the Mpumalanga Traditional Music Festival takes place on Saturday, 5 September 2026, at Puma Rugby Stadium in Witbank, where thousands of music lovers are expected to gather for a day dedicated to celebrating South Africa’s diverse cultural traditions.
