MBABANE – The Malkerns Country Club came alive on Saturday as music lovers gathered for a vibrant celebration of food, culture and entertainment at the Kota Festival.
Originating as a popular South African lifestyle and food tour celebrating the iconic Kota street sandwich, the festival has grown into a major regional movement. Beyond showcasing diverse culinary creations from talented local chefs and ‘Kotapreneurs’, the event serves as a cultural bridge, uniting communities through high-energy music and shared experiences. Local companies that partnered with the event include Berachah Kitchen and Embiveni Meat Industries, which produced top-tier Kota at the event. The theme colour of the event was yellow and white and the attendees delivered, with many opting for all-white outfits.
The day’s musical line-up delivered unforgettable moments, highlighted by South African artist Vusi Nova, who delivered a show-stopping performance backed by a full live band. He treated the roaring crowd to beloved tracks like ‘Thandiwe’, ‘Ndikuthandile’ and his emotional crowd favourite, ‘As’phelelanga’. Demonstrating deep unity, he instructed the crowd to turn on their flashlights and sing along to the lyrics, “As’phelelanga, Kushoda u Zahara,” in moving remembrance of the late South African singer Zahara.
He praised local musician Young Zesh right after his stage performance when approached by this publication for an interview. Vusi Nova expressed his admiration for Young Zesh’s hit track ‘KaKhoza’ and urged emaSwati to continuously support local talent. “I listen to Young Zesh music, it is really good,” he said.
The festival’s atmosphere was electric from start to finish. Before Vusi Nova took the stage, Amapiano sensation Young Stunna elevated the party mood with his infectious beats. Local star Young Zesh also captivated the audience with authentic Swati sounds, performing hits such as ‘Senibeketele’.
Other heavyweights kept the momentum going. Hip Hop star Emtee performed his major hits, prompting the crowd to joyfully sing along to ‘Pearl Thusi’. Meanwhile, Morda Bongz took over the decks, dazzling the audience with his signature turnaround dance that sent waves of excitement through the grounds. Local star Gifted Kosie further showcased Eswatini’s finest artistry alongside her energetic dancers.
The successful convergence of mouth-watering food and stellar live performances proved why the Kota Festival remains a standout fixture on the regional entertainment calendar. This is not the first time the event has taken place in the country.
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