A handful of Eswatini talent set to represent the country at one of South Africa’s biggest lifestyle and music festivals, the Phakama Music Festival 2025. The event returns for its third edition this September, promising a lively celebration of music, culture, and art.
The festival will take place from 1 to 2 November 2025 at 116 Montana Gardens, Ngwenya Estate, White River, in Mpumalanga. It will feature a colorful mix of performances, fashion, food, art, and cultural displays. This year’s edition will also introduce a new camping experience where festivalgoers can enjoy music under the open skies of Mpumalanga.
Eswatini will be represented by 7 (seven) talented acts: DJ Cybos, DJ Tibza, Dj Ntombz, Dj Tempo, Sbu The Drum DJ, DJ Zulu, and Young Zesh.
These local stars will perform alongside some of South Africa’s top musicians, including Morda, Oscar Mbo, Lwa Ndlunkulu, Mbuso Khoza, Fistaz Mixwell, Phumla Music, Jabulile Majola, Shakes & Les, Mpo Les, and DJ Benny from Mozambique, among others.
According to the festival’s founders, Phakama Music Festival is often called the Coachella of Mpumalanga. It aims to celebrate African creativity, heritage, and tourism by bringing together music, art, sculpting, and entrepreneurship in one vibrant space. The festival is not just about performances but also about giving a platform to local creators and promoting cultural pride through shared experiences.
Among the main acts, Mbuso Khoza is expected to deliver a traditional and emotional performance rooted in Zulu storytelling and folk music. Fistaz Mixwell, a well-known figure in South African house music, will bring his high-energy set to the stage, while Phumla Music, one of Mpumalanga’s most celebrated artists, will perform for her home audience after several international appearances.
Festival organisers have promised that this year’s edition will be bigger and more interactive. Visitors can expect live art installations, workshops, fashion shows, and local crafts on display. There will also be a marketplace where small business owners can showcase and sell their products. More acts and festival activities will be announced in the coming weeks as preparations continue.
Since its launch, the Phakama Music Festival has gained a strong reputation for promoting unity through art and entertainment. It attracts a mix of local and international visitors every year who come to experience the unique blend of African rhythms, fashion, and creativity.
For the Eswatini performers, being part of this event marks an important step in their careers, as it exposes them to a wider audience and gives them the chance to share their sound beyond national borders. Their participation also shines a light on Eswatini’s growing music industry, which continues to produce talented DJs and vocalists ready to take on regional and global stages.
Tickets for the Phakama Music Festival 2025 start from E450 and can be purchased through Howler, Shoprite, Checkers, U Save, and House & Home outlets. Festivalgoers who wish to stay overnight can choose from several camping packages designed to give them a full weekend experience of music and fun. For bookings and more information, the organisers can be contacted at +27 82 715 5810.
With a growing lineup and exciting new additions, the Phakama Music Festival 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events on the regional entertainment calendar.
