Nkalakatha Fest’25 to Celebrate 25 Years of Mandoza’s Iconic Hit

The late kwaito legend Mandoza’s hit song “Nkalakatha” continues to unite South Africans 25 years after its release. Known for breaking racial and language barriers, the track remains a symbol of music’s power to bring people together. Mandoza, born Mduduzi Edmund Tshabalala, passed away on September 18, 2016, after battling pharyngeal cancer, but his legacy lives on through his music and ongoing initiatives.

In honor of the milestone, Mandoza’s widow, Mpho Tshabalala, who oversees the Mandoza Foundation, has announced Nkalakatha Fest’25, a music festival celebrating the song’s enduring impact. Scheduled for December 0, 2025, at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, the festival is described as more than just a musical event—it is a movement of unity.

“The planning for Nkalakatha Festival 25 is making me crazy with ideas,” Mpho told IOL. “Everything is 25, including the lineup.” True to the song’s spirit of inclusivity, the festival lineup spans multiple genres, from rock and amapiano to maskandi and gqom, ensuring a diverse musical experience.

Mpho explained that the festival also carries a purpose beyond celebration. “Part of the big purpose of this festival is to launch the Nkalakatha Bursary Fund with the proceeds. It’s something very close to my heart,” she said. The initiative aims to support young talent and give back to communities, reflecting Mandoza’s commitment to uplifting others through music.

Nkalakatha Fest’25 promises to honor the legacy of a song that has transcended generations, fostering connection through rhythm and culture. Fans can expect a vibrant, genre-spanning lineup that celebrates Mandoza’s influence while supporting the next wave of South African artists.

The festival underscores the lasting impact of “Nkalakatha” as more than a hit track—it is a cultural phenomenon that continues to unite people across backgrounds and generations.