LULO CAFE DRAWS REGIONAL AUDIENCES TO ESWATINI’S ENTERTAINMENT SCENE

By: Nonophile Khumalo

MBABANE – South African DJ and music producer Lulo Cafe headlined Thembinkhosi Mthethwa’s Annual All Black Party at 23:28 Lounge on Friday night, bringing regional star power to Eswatini’s nightlife scene.

The birthday celebration, hosted by Thembinkhosi Mthethwa, popularly known as Mr Party, brought together music lovers, local performers and personalities from the country’s entertainment and creative industries.

Born Sikhululo Maliwa, Lulo Cafe is an established figure in South Africa’s house music scene and is also known for his presence on Metro FM. He took to the decks shortly after 10pm, delivering a house music set that became one of the evening’s highlights.

His appearance demonstrated how regional performers can strengthen Eswatini’s entertainment offering while giving local audiences access to established artists without travelling beyond the country’s borders.

ENTERTAINMENT BOOSTS TOURISM APPEAL

The event highlighted the potential of themed parties and live performances to complement Eswatini’s traditional tourism attractions by offering visitors distinctive nightlife and lifestyle experiences.

Such gatherings can also create opportunities for hospitality businesses, restaurants and transport operators while increasing exposure for local venues and artists.

LOCAL TALENT SHARES THE SPOTLIGHT

Eswatini’s entertainment industry was well represented, with DJs Cup, Tibza, Sibu Manzini, MBO, Grixxly, MixMash, Bisto and DJ Ricko contributing to the musical lineup.

Young Zesh added a live performance element after Lulo Cafe’s set, showcasing another dimension of the local entertainment scene.

The inclusion of homegrown performers alongside a recognised South African artist highlighted the importance of creating platforms for local talent to gain visibility and connect with wider audiences.

ENTERTAINMENT PERSONALITIES CONVERGE

Among those spotted at the venue were Banele Dlamini, Secretary of the Eswatini Events Management and Promoters Association (EEMPA), musician Sarnilo, poet Christian Maz, comedian Cedric Simelane and former footballer Taribo Bhembe.

Representatives from Eswatini Positive News, Eswatini Independent News, Eswatini Times and Eswatini Observer also attended.

The event’s all-black dress code added elegance to the occasion, reinforcing its distinctive theme.

Following Lulo Cafe’s performance, Mthethwa thanked patrons, friends and partners for supporting the celebration. He specifically acknowledged NewLife Entertainment for its contribution and thanked Lulo Cafe for accepting the invitation.

The celebration showcased how entertainment initiatives can bring regional and local talent together while contributing to Eswatini’s growing nightlife and tourism offering.