BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MBABANE – Grab the opportunity for employment at the upcoming fifth edition of Makoti Festival.
The casual staff application announcement to join the Makoti Festival Team was made by the organisers of the festival yesterday. It will close on Monday,as confirmed by Festival Director Thembinkosi Mthethwa.
He expressed,” We are looking for casual staff who will assist with the ground work at the upcoming Makoti Festival. From waiters,cleaners and many more. Those interested have two days to apply as applications will close on Monday (19 January 2026).”
To apply click on the link and complete the form, http://www.makotifestival.com/portal/
Mthethwa also shared that this year they decided to go big on traditional attire,and have received an overwhelming positive response on social media as it relives the pressure of getting designer outfits which can at times be costly for some patrons.
The highly anticipated cultural celebration presented by NewLife Entertainment and Illa PenBoy Foundation returns to the Malkerns Country Club on 25 April 2026 marking its fifth and most exciting edition yet.
Mthethwa also confirmed that tickets are now available across all major selling platforms, including Computicket, Howler, Moja Ticket, and the festival’s official website.
He added that tickets will be sold in three phases.
GENERAL TICKETS
* Phase 1: E200
* Phase 2:E250
* Phase 3: E300
VIP TICKETS
* Phase 1:E500
* Phase 2: E650
* Phase 3:E750
Mthethwa promised an even bigger and more vibrant experience for festival goers, revealing that fans should expect a series of exciting announcements in the coming weeks — including the reveal of artists, DJs, and special guests who will headline the 2026 edition.
LOOKING BACK AT THE 4TH EDITION
The fourth edition of the Makoti Festival was successfully held on 26 April 2025, also at the Malkerns Country Club. The event brought together artists and DJs from across the region, representing Eswatini (host), South Africa, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Botswana.
The main MCs were Mzwakhe “Tjovitjo” Khumalo and Siphesihle Nkwanyana, with guest MCs Buhle (Nobuhle Glennette Ndlovu) of Ligwalagwala FM and Moska Saeed Mositi from Lesotho.
The full line-up included:
ESWATINI
Shongwe Ne Khuphuka; Young Zesh; Gogo Mpila; King Kanga; Siyinqaba; Mshikishi; Young Love; DJ MBO; Master P; The Bishop; Culolam; Sbu The Drum DJ; Nelson X; Lady Zee; UrcousinPhayo
SOUTH AFRICA
Dr. Rebecca Malope; Khuzani “uGatsheni” Ndlovu; Phumla Music
MOZAMBIQUE
Lizha James; DJ Supaman
LESOTHO
Ntate Stunna; DJ Tseko; DJ Mekonko
BOTSWANA
Khumagadi
GROWING FESTIVAL BRAND
Since its inception in April 2022, the Makoti Festival has grown into one of the region’s most influential cultural events. Earlier in 2025, the festival conducted media launches in Mbombela (South Africa) Lesotho, and Maputo (Mozambique) — a clear sign of its expanding regional footprint.
The 2026 Makoti Festival continues its mission as a family-oriented cultural celebration rooted in Eswatini traditions. The festival honours women — married, unmarried, and young girls preparing for their future roles as makotis.
Next year’s event will feature:
* Cultural showcases
* Trendy fashion exhibitions
* Food and craft stalls
* Regional music and live performances
* A vibrant display of Eswatini heritage
With anticipation building, the fifth edition is already shaping up to be the **biggest and most culturally enriched Makoti Festival yet.
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