MTN BUSHFIRE URGES EARLY PLANNING FOR 2027

By Tlalane Dlamini

EZULWINI – MTN Bushfire is encouraging festivalgoers, accommodation providers and travel operators to prepare early for its 2027 edition, as the internationally recognised festival celebrates 20 years of its “Bring Your Fire” legacy.

The call was made during the festival’s media launch on 21 October 2026, where Zwelakhe Dlamini highlighted the economic opportunities presented by the milestone edition and the importance of coordinated planning across Eswatini’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

With ticket sales scheduled to begin on Friday, 23 October 2026, stakeholders have been urged to align their preparations with anticipated visitor demands, encouraging festivalgoers to secure accommodation and transport soon after purchasing their tickets.

Dlamini noted that accommodation and transport are key considerations for visitors deciding whether to attend. With an anticipated 23,000 attendees from 55 countries, early planning presents opportunities for local businesses to benefit from increased demand.

The North-West University’s economic impact assessment of MTN Bushfire 2025 reported that the festival generated E121.2 million for Eswatini’s economy, demonstrating its contribution beyond the festival grounds.

The findings showed that more than 25% of respondents stayed for four nights or longer during the 2025 edition, while approximately 36% travelled to other parts of Eswatini during the festival period.

These figures highlight opportunities for accommodation establishments, transport operators, suppliers and tourism businesses to benefit from visitors who extend their stays and explore the country.

Accommodation partners for the 2027 edition include The Royal Villas, Happy Valley Hotel and Esibayeni Lodge. Providers have been encouraged to plan capacity early, develop attractive packages and maintain accurate booking information to help visitors make informed decisions.

The festival is working with the Hospitality and Tourism Association of Eswatini (HOTAES) to update the local accommodation inventory, with the aim of providing real-time visibility of available accommodation.

Camping and glamping options will also be available within the festival grounds. All Out Africa is the official camping partner, while Harambee Hotels and Rush Adventures are the official glamping partners. Visitors are encouraged to use official channels and vetted partners for reliable bookings.

Travel arrangements are another priority. All Out Africa will support regional journeys from Maputo, Mozambique, and Durban, South Africa, while MCI and Pfuxela will assist festivalgoers travelling from Mozambique.

Eswatini Air is also partnering with the festival, with details of a promotional code offering discounted flights for ticket holders expected to be announced once available.

Organisers have emphasised that the festival’s economic impact extends beyond its performances, creating opportunities for businesses and communities throughout Eswatini.

As preparations gather momentum for the May 2027 edition, festivalgoers are encouraged to visit the Plan section of the official website, www.bush-fire.com, to explore travel and accommodation options and make arrangements early.

The organisers have called on stakeholders across the economic value chain to work together to turn visitor interest into confirmed bookings, positive experiences and lasting economic benefits for Eswatini.