📸: Supplied

MTN Bushfire 2026 returns to Eswatini’s Malkerns Valley from 29–31 May. Featuring Uncle Waffles, Kokoroko, and a Busi Mhlongo tribute, the festival unites artists from 20 countries across six stages. This conscious celebration blends music, activism, and family-friendly arts. Limited tickets remain online as the event nears its 14th consecutive sell-out.

Key Highlights

• Who: MTN Bushfire Festival
• What: 3-day music and arts event
• When: Friday 29 May – Sunday 31 May 2026
• Where: House On Fire, Malkerns Valley, Eswatini
• Why: Celebrating cultural diversity and social change
• How: Multidisciplinary performances across six stages
• Tickets: Limited spots at www.bush-fire.com

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Uncle Waffles Headlines Global Star-Studded Lineup For MTN Bushfire’s 19th Edition Homecoming

5 May 2026

The pulse of the African continent is preparing to quicken as the MTN Bushfire Festival officially enters the final countdown to its 19th edition. The festival has ignited a frenzy with the reveal of their artist drop for 2026, headlined by a symbolic homecoming for Amapiano titan Uncle Waffles and a lineup spanning 20 countries.

Set against the lush backdrop of House On Fire from 29–31 May 2026, the festival is returning with its signature “Bring Your Fire” call to action, reinforcing its status as Africa’s premier multidisciplinary event for music, art, and social activism.

The Prodigal Daughter Returns

The headline news for many local fans is the return of Eswatini’s own Uncle Waffles. Now a certified global superstar, the DJ and creative powerhouse is set for a deeply emotional homecoming. Known for her hypnotic stage presence and visual storytelling, her performance is being billed as a celebration of the soil that shaped her before she took the world’s stages by storm.

Honoring Legends and Global Fusion

In a poignant nod to musical history, the 2026 program will feature a special tribute to the late Busi Mhlongo. South African vocalists Buhlebendalo, Xolisa Dlamini, and Zawadi YaMungu will reimagine Mhlongo’s groundbreaking fusion of Zulu tradition and Afro-soul, bridging the gap between jazz heritage and the new generation. The lineup continues to push boundaries across six stages with a diverse international roster:

• From London: The jazz and afrobeat septet Kokoroko.
• From Congo: The explosive funk and rock sounds of Jupiter & Okwess.
• From South Africa: Kwaito legend Kabelo (Bouga Luv), chart-topper Young Stunna, the world-renowned Ndlovu Youth Choir, and the emotional collaboration Project Enthropy (Msaki & Jesse Clegg).
• From Japan: Anna Sato, who will blend ancient Shimauta traditions with modern R&B.
• From Europe & Beyond: Spain’s Fillas de Cassandra, Nigeria’s Afrofuturist Wayne Snow, and Austria’s neo-soul artist Elena Shirin.

A Proudly Swati Identity

While the reach is global, the festival remains rooted in Eswatini. Local stars such as the ethereal Velemseni, Afro House powerhouse Sibu Manzini (collaborating with the Ivula Masango Youth Choir), and electronic artist !Sooks will ensure the kingdom’s local talent shines on the international stage.

More Than Just Music

True to its “multidisciplinary” promise, the 2026 edition offers a spectacle beyond the ears. Ireland’s Murray Molly, a Guinness World Record-holding sword swallower, is set to perform alongside the acrobatic displays of The Cirk. For the “Young Fire Starters,” the South African play ‘How to Hold the World’ will provide a magical theatrical experience for families.

Ticket Alert: Selling Out Fast

As the festival enters its 14th year of consecutive sell-outs, organizers have issued a final call to action for fans. Golden Lounge tickets are already officially sold out. A limited number of Main Arena and Children’s tickets remain available at www.bush-fire.com. With a month to go and more artist announcements on the horizon, the message from the Malkerns Valley is clear: secure your spot now or miss out on the cultural event of the year.

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