Eswatini’s Creative Pulse: April 2025 Roundup​

Eswatini’s arts and entertainment scene is vibrant this April, showcasing a blend of traditional heritage and contemporary innovation. From music festivals to visual arts exhibitions, the kingdom is a hub of creative activity.​

Music and Cultural Festivals​

Makoti Festival 2025​

Scheduled for April 26 at Malkerns Country Club, the Makoti Festival is a celebration of Eswatini’s rich cultural tapestry. This year’s lineup includes Mozambique’s Afrobeat star Lizha James, South African Maskandi artist Mthandeni SK, and local talents like Lodanda neMalangeni. The festival also features fashion and food stalls, highlighting the creativity of local entrepreneurs.​

Mahamba Gorge Music Fest​

Set against the scenic Mahamba Gorge, this inaugural three-day festival promises a fusion of music and culture. Artists such as Blaq Diamond, Sands, and Young Zesh are expected to perform, offering a diverse musical experience.​

Visual Arts and Exhibitions​

Yebo!ArtReach Exhibition​

Yebo!ArtReach recently hosted an exhibition featuring artworks by students from the School for the Deaf. The event emphasized art as a universal language and showcased the talents of young, emerging artists.​ sncac.org.sz

“The Burning Question” Exhibition​

Yebo Contemporary Art Gallery and Londza Design are curating an exhibition titled “The Burning Question,” focusing on climate change. Artists across Africa are invited to submit works exploring environmental themes, with the exhibition scheduled during the MTN Bushfire Festival in May.​

Industry Developments​

Increased Arts and Culture Budget​

The Eswatini government has increased the arts and culture budget to over E12 million for the 2025/26 fiscal year. This boost aims to support creatives nationwide, fostering growth in the cultural sector.​

International Recognition​

Gospel artist Nothando Shabangu-Dlamini has been selected to perform at India’s Surajkund International Crafts Mela Festival. This opportunity highlights Eswatini’s cultural presence on the global stage.​

Only Make Waves Open Call

recently launched an Open Call as part of its growing educational initiative, targeting upcoming and often overlooked artists. This call is more than just an invitation it’s a platform shift, offering guidance and industry knowledge to creatives who are seeking direction in their journey. Through this, Only Make Waves aims to equip artists with the tools they need to better understand the art world, from creative development to industry navigation. It’s a move that reinforces the platform’s commitment not only to showcasing talent but also to nurturing it from the ground up, turning rejection into a pathway for growth and learning.

Nakiso’s Upcoming Single: “The Highway”​

Eswatini-born producer Nakiso is set to release his new single, “The Highway,” this Friday. The track, characterized by its minimal dub style, features deep basslines and subtle percussion, creating an atmospheric soundscape. “The Highway” is part of his forthcoming LP, “Within the Influence,” which promises to blend ambient textures with rhythmic elements.​