LULO CAFE TO HEADLINE THEMBINKOSI’S ANNUAL ALL BLACK PARTY

By Tlalane Dlamini

MBABANE – Eswatini’s entertainment scene is gearing up for another major birthday celebration, with South African Metro FM star DJ Lulo Cafe confirmed as the headline act for Thembinkosi Mthethwa’s Annual All Black Party.

The highly anticipated celebration returns on October 9, 2026 at 23:28 Lounge in Mbabane, bringing together music lovers, celebrities and nightlife enthusiasts for a night of entertainment, fashion and premium house music.

The event celebrates Mthethwa, lead actor of the hit Eswatini television drama Ekhaya and owner and CEO of 23:28 Lounge.

Although Mthethwa’s birthday falls on 23 September, the celebration has become an annual signature event held shortly afterwards. Guests are expected to embrace the party’s signature dress code by turning out in stylish all-black outfits.

This year’s edition will be headlined by Lulo Cafe, born Sikhululo Maliwa, a well-known South African deep house DJ, music producer and media personality. He is also a familiar voice on Metro FM, where he hosts The Supreme Lounge on Sunday evenings from 6pm.

Known for his soulful deep house and Afro-house sound, Lulo Cafe has built a strong following across Southern Africa, making his appearance one of the major attractions of this year’s celebration.

A PARTY THAT KEEPS GROWING

The Annual All Black Party has grown into one of 23:28 Lounge’s flagship events, attracting bigger crowds and prominent entertainment names with each edition.

Last year’s celebration transformed the venue into a sea of black, with guests dressed to impress while enjoying live entertainment, top DJs and a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

The event has since evolved beyond a birthday celebration into an annual gathering that brings together entertainment, fashion and Eswatini’s growing creative industry.

Mthethwa has also continued to build his profile beyond acting, balancing his role as the lead actor in Ekhaya with entrepreneurship and entertainment promotion.

Through NewLife Entertainment, he has become a prominent promoter of regional entertainment, bringing established and emerging talent to Eswatini audiences.

With Lulo Cafe confirmed for the celebration, expectations are high for another memorable edition featuring quality house music, striking fashion and the energetic atmosphere that has become synonymous with Thembinkosi’s Annual All Black Party.