This year, the picturesque province of Mpumalanga, often referred to as the "place of the rising sun," has celebrated Tourism Month in grand style, setting the stage for an inaugural and groundbreaking event, The Phakama Mpumalanga Festival.
The highly anticipated two-day outdoor extravaganza is poised to unite local artists in a vibrant showcase of their talents, encouraging the exchange of creative ideas, fostering cultural exchange, and promising an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Heralded as the "Coachella of the Mpumalanga province," the festival was officially unveiled on September 14, 2023, amid much fanfare at the Ngwenya Estate in Whiteriver Mbombela.
Advocate Twain Ngwenya, the visionary behind the Phakama Mpumalanga Festival, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to bring an event of such caliber to Mpumalanga, as the festival is dedicated to preserving our province's rich cultural heritage."
Ngwenya continued, "Mpumalanga is a region teeming with diversity, and we must take pride in showcasing it to the world through events like this. We aim to boost the local economy and tourism sector by doing so. We aim to attract a diverse audience, including local and international attendees, which will ultimately create economic opportunities for local businesses."
Moreover, Ngwenya, a philanthropist at heart, announced that a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships will be committed to supporting art initiatives within Mpumalanga, empowering the next generation of artists and creators.
The festival's grand launch was hosted by the renowned media personality, actress, and TV presenter Tsholofelo Maseko, who also hails from the radiant province of Mpumalanga. The event saw the presence of notable figures, including Bokamoso Machika, Miss Mpumalanga 2023, the acclaimed musician and songwriter Princess Indlovukazi, the charismatic radio presenter and actor from Skeem Sam, as well as Mzansi Magic's Komkhulu (telenovela) star, Bukhosibemvelo Mahlangu. Additionally, the evening was graced by the presence of the club and radio DJ, Thulane T Boy Khanye of Ligwalagwala FM.
Guests at the launch were treated to a captivating mini fashion show featuring designs by talented fashion artists from Mpumalanga, such as Freedom "Giga Guru" Ngomane, Heavenly House, ET, Mkorosho, and Irvin Dee. Notably, all models who graced the ramp hailed from Mpumalanga.
The Phakama Mpumalanga Festival's main event will span two days, strategically timed during the peak tourism season in Mpumalanga. The inaugural edition is set to captivate audiences on October 28th and 29th, 2023, at the Whiteriver Fairlands Ngwenya Estate.
As Mpumalanga readies itself to host this one-of-a-kind celebration, the Phakama Mpumalanga Festival promises to shine brightly as a beacon of culture, creativity, and community, leaving an indelible mark on the province and beyond. Stay tuned for what is sure to be a spectacular event that brings the world closer to the heart of Mpumalanga's beauty and diversity.
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