Music lovers, artists, entrepreneurs and travellers from around the world gathered in Eswatini as MTN Bushfire 2026 once again delivered a vibrant celebration of creativity, culture and community.
Held at the iconic House On Fire venue in the Malkerns Valley, the festival attracted more than 23,000 people from over 60 countries. Over three days, festivalgoers enjoyed a diverse programme of live music, dance, poetry, storytelling, theatre and cultural experiences spread across multiple stages.
Since its launch in 2007, MTN Bushfire has grown into one of Africa’s largest multicultural festivals. Guided by its #BringYourFire call to action, the event promotes social inclusion, environmental awareness and positive change through the arts.
One of the highlights of this year’s festival was the performance by Kokoroko, a young and vibrant London-based eight-piece band known for blending Afrobeat, highlife and jazz. Led by trumpeter Sheila Maurice-Grey, the group draws heavily on its West African roots and the UK’s diasporic music scene.
Reflecting on their Bushfire experience, a band member described the crowd’s response as unforgettable.
“I think maybe the best thing that I’ve ever had at a show or a festival,” the musician said, referring to a moment when the audience continued singing during a temporary power interruption.
The group also praised the reception they received from African audiences.
“It’s the best. We want to do it more,” they said.
Kokoroko further acknowledged the influence of South African music on their sound.
“Our first shows, we were playing South African music as well. Your music has definitely influenced our music in a big way. It’s part of our foundation.”
The festival also provided a platform for emerging talent. One of the breakout acts of the weekend was Emagagu, an Eswatini-based group making its first appearance at MTN Bushfire. Group leader Percy Thwala described the opportunity as a dream come true.
“Today’s performance was cool and I didn’t believe it would be this good. Performing in front of such a crowd has always been a dream for us,” he said.
“It’s been a challenge, but we thank everyone who has been supporting us, watching us and promoting us. By the grace of God, we made it here.”
Beyond the music, visitors explored food markets, local crafts and cultural exhibitions that showcased Eswatini’s creativity and entrepreneurship. Melusi Dlamini of the Made in Eswatini initiative said the festival creates important opportunities for local producers.
“The amount of money that local producers make over the Bushfire weekend is able to sustain them for the next couple of months,” he said.
For those seeking comfort while enjoying the outdoor festival experience, Glamping Adventures provided luxury camping accommodation. Glamping Adventures CEO, Gugu Sithole, said the festival attracts travellers seeking unique experiences without compromising comfort.
“MTN Bushfire attracts visitors from across the region and internationally, many of whom are looking for unique outdoor experiences without compromising on comfort. Our participation at the festival aligns perfectly with our mission of making nature-based travel more accessible, enjoyable, and memorable,” said Sithole.
“Beyond providing accommodation, it was an opportunity to connect with travellers who value experiential tourism and contribute to the overall visitor experience at one of Africa’s most celebrated festivals.”
As the final performances came to an end, many festivalgoers were already looking ahead to next year’s edition, proving once again that MTN Bushfire remains one of Africa’s most loved cultural gatherings. Next year the event will take place on the 28th-30th May, as the event celebrates 20years.