EITF 2026 UNVEILS A STAR-STUDDED ENTERTAINMENT LINE-UP LED BY ESWATINI TALENT

By Tlalane Dlamini

NGWENYA – The entertainment programme for the 58th Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) was officially unveiled during an Entertainment Artist Reveal Launch at Ngwenya Glass, marking the countdown to one of Eswatini’s biggest annual trade, business and tourism gatherings.

With 15 days to go before the fair opens, EIPA’s Pamela Mkhonta addressed the media and revealed that more than 70% of this year’s entertainment line-up comprises local artists and DJs, placing Eswatini’s creative talent firmly at the centre of the visitor experience.

The launch at Ngwenya Glass provided a fitting backdrop for the announcement, aligning with the 2026 EITF theme, “Unlocking Green Economy Opportunities for Sustainable Trade Promotion.” The venue also reinforced the connection between tourism, local enterprise, creativity and sustainable economic opportunities.

The nine-day EITF takes place from 29 August to 6 September 2026, offering visitors a programme that extends beyond exhibitions and business networking to include music, culture, live performances and entertainment.

Speaking on behalf of the artists, comedian Darren and Saintour MC thanked EITF for creating a platform that enables local creatives to showcase their talents and entertain audiences.

Their remarks reflect the strong emphasis on homegrown talent this year, with the entertainment programme featuring more than 40 acts across different days and performance spaces.

The opening day on 29 August will feature M Nation, Mazwelany, Linda Dlamini, Zulu D, Young Zesh, MCO Jamrock, DJ Matamza, DJ MaBee and regional performers including Mduduzi Ncube and Simmy from South Africa.

The programme continues throughout the fair with gospel, contemporary music, DJs, live performances and dance showcases, featuring names such as Ndawonye Christ Worshipers, Jumbo, Shongwe ne Khuphuka, Phathwakahle, Make Siwela, DJ Tira, Q Twins, EEMOH, DJ Mbo, Aymos, Mthandeni SK and many others.

For travellers and visitors, EITF 2026 presents an opportunity to experience Eswatini through a combination of business, culture, entertainment and local creativity, while the strong representation of Eswatini artists gives visitors a chance to discover the country’s contemporary entertainment scene.

EITF Spokesperson Siphesihle Nkhabindze said the entertainment programme is intended to complement the fair’s core purpose of trade, investment, business networking and innovation, while appealing to families, young people, entrepreneurs and visitors from across the region.

As the countdown reaches 15 days, EITF 2026 is shaping up not only as a destination for business and trade, but also as a platform where visitors can experience the energy, creativity and cultural expression of Eswatini.

EITF 2026 runs from 29 August to 6 September 2026.