"EXPECT NOTHING BUT THE JOURNEY OF FALLING IN LOVE''

As the countdown to the Makoti Festival’s fifth edition gains momentum, Eswatini’s cultural tourism calendar is set for a defining moment, and multifaceted artist Judah Soul is one of the names promising to make it unforgettable.

Born Phumelela Silitshena, the Manzini-born singer, songwriter, producer, and creative consultant, known professionally as Judah or Judah Soul, is among more than 40 acts confirmed for the culturally-anchored festival, set for 02 May 2026 at the scenic Malkerns Country Club.

A celebrated voice in Eswatini’s music landscape, Judah is recognised for soul-stirring hits including Buya and Sitasandzane, and for live performances that leave audiences deeply moved. His MTN SWAMA Awards nomination in 2020 cemented his standing as one of the Kingdom’s standout musical talents. Beyond the stage, he has built a reputation as a creative consultant and has animated local entertainment venues through karaoke experiences that draw communities together.

For visitors and locals alike making the journey to Malkerns on the 2nd of May, Judah has painted a vivid picture of what to expect.

“My fans can expect nothing but the journey of falling in love, a journey of pure bliss and so much energy at the same time. We are going to dance the night away. It will be an energetic performance filled with so much love and storytelling. Love will be in the air.”

The artist also spoke warmly of the festival’s cultural significance, a sentiment that speaks directly to the growing interest in authentic, community-rooted tourism experiences in Eswatini.

“This is a festival that appreciates women and appreciates our culture, it celebrates the makoti and brings us together. It’s a beautiful way for us to celebrate our culture in a different way. As emaSwati, we are very cultural people. The festival must grow into something bigger, we’re talking something like 60k to 100k people.”

His vision speaks to the festival’s broader potential as a flagship cultural tourism drawcard for the Kingdom, an event that could attract regional and international visitors looking for authentic African cultural experiences.

A REGIONAL LINEUP WORTH TRAVELLING FOR

The fifth edition delivers a compelling case for tourism with a lineup that stretches well beyond Eswatini’s borders. Headlining the artist roster is Gospel Queen Nothando Hlophe, a former Spirit of Praise and Metro FM nominee now celebrated on a global stage. Joining her are Ntunja Phindy The Real Queen from Mpumalanga, South Africa; Mozambique’s vibrant Liloca, who brings genre-bending grooves to the Swazi stage; alongside local talent including Velemiseni, Sarnilo, Sancheziey, Young Zesh, Lyrkal Busta, True Classic, Stella Jacobs, Mco Jamrock, and As4Jerry. SA Maskandi sensation Feza of Umanqonda fame rounds out a rich and diverse bill.

The DJ stage is equally stacked, drawing talent from across the SADC region. South Africa’s crowd favourite DJ Zinhle leads a set that includes Mozambique’s SkyWhite, Mulinde, and DJ Dilson; Italy-based South African DJ Picat The Italian; and a full roster of local and regional selectors including Mdu AKA TRP, Touch of Soul, Chubby T, DJ Geenger (Mpumalanga, SA), Mekonko (Lesotho), and many more.

This year’s festival is powered by Orchard Insurance, with Thando confirmed as MC.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Phase 3 tickets remain available on Computicket, Howler, and Moja Ticket:

General: E300
VIP: E750

The Malkerns Country Club, nestled in one of Eswatini’s most picturesque valleys, offers a natural backdrop that enhances the festival’s cultural and tourism appeal. Whether you’re a domestic traveller or arriving from across the region, Makoti Festival offers an immersive, joyful entry point into Eswatini’s living culture.