MTN Bushfire Festival has announced global amapiano sensation Uncle Waffles as part of the festival’s second artist drop for the 2026 edition, sparking high key excitement across social media.
The announcement forms part of the gradual reveal of performers for the 19th edition of the festival, which will take place from 29 to 31 May 2026 at House on Fire. More artists will continue to be announced in the coming weeks as anticipation builds for one of Africa’s most recognised cultural gatherings.
The latest reveal follows the festival’s theme of presenting a programme described as ‘diverse, eclectic and imaginative’, reflecting Bushfire’s long-standing focus on cultural exchange through music, arts and social activism.
Global Rise of Uncle Waffles
Born Lungelihle Zwane, Uncle Waffles has emerged as one of the most influential figures in the global amapiano movement. Known for her energetic performances and strong stage presence, the DJ rose to fame in 2021 after a video of her performing during a live set went viral online that bloomed into the star who now has well over 3 Million followers on social media.
Her career has since expanded internationally, with performances across Africa, Europe and the United States. She also made history as the first female amapiano act to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
The artist has also received recognition from global music stars and brands including Black coffee, Beyonce, Drake, Ciara etc. She has also been spotted around brand campaigns for Louis Vuitton and Adidas .
Her upcoming appearance at Bushfire represents a special long awaited homecoming moment, as the internationally recognised DJ returns to perform in her country of birth at one of the region’s biggest festivals.
Grab tickets!
Tickets are quickly running out.
Tickers are available for purchase through the official Bushfire ticketing platform. Organisers have also introduced discounted purchasing options for local audiences through MTN Group Mobile Money.
Residents of Eswatini can buy discounted festival tickets through the MTN MoMo marketplace, convenient.
Festival organisers say the initiative forms part of efforts to ensure the event remains accessible to local audiences while continuing to attract international visitors.
Travel Deals
Eswatini Air is offering 15 percent discounts on return flights for travellers attending the Bushfire festival.
The airline launched the offer as part of a collaboration aimed at encouraging more regional and international visitors to attend the three-day event in the Malkerns Valley.
Beyond attending the festival, members of the public can also participate in the event’s operations. Organisers have opened applications for Park ’n Ride taxi and shuttle service providers, who will assist with transporting festival-goers between designated transport points and the venue.
More Artists Still to Come
The second artist drop signals the beginning of several line-up announcements expected ahead of the festival. Traditionally, Bushfire gradually reveals performers over several months to build excitement for the event.
