Sankofa Heritage Festival Announces Headliners for Inaugural Edition
The Sankofa Heritage Festival has officially announced its headliners for its first edition. The new cultural event is founded by acclaimed musician and cultural activist Thandiswa Mazwai and will take place at Carnival City in Ekurhuleni on 28 February 2026.
The inaugural lineup will be led by Grammy nominated artist Somi from Rwanda and Uganda, alongside celebrated South African singer and songwriter Msaki. More artists are expected to be announced as the festival builds toward its debut.
The Sankofa Heritage Festival marks a major milestone in Thandiswa Mazwai’s career. The event celebrates her 50th birthday and 30 years in the music industry. It also launches what is expected to become an annual cultural gathering focused on African heritage, artistic excellence, and intergenerational legacy.
In a media statement, Thandiswa said she is excited to share the festival stage with Somi and Msaki. She described both artists as close friends and long-time collaborators who have supported each other across global stages.
She said Somi’s work is rooted in archiving and African memory, noting their collaboration on Somi’s album dedicated to the late Miriam Makeba. Thandiswa also described Msaki as more than a musician, calling her a cultural worker who has helped activate the careers of many young artists. For the festival, Msaki will perform with an ensemble that includes artists from Sudan and Kenya.
Somi said returning to Johannesburg to perform at the Sankofa Heritage Festival feels deeply personal. She described Thandiswa as a powerful artist and a dear sister whose creative vision and commitment to Africa’s past and future continue to inspire her.
She added that being part of the first edition of a festival Thandiswa has envisioned for years is an honour. The performance will also mark Somi’s first appearance in South Africa in four years, making the reunion and return to Joburg especially meaningful.
The Sankofa Heritage Festival positions itself as a space for reflection, celebration, and forward movement. With its inaugural headliners confirmed, the event sets a strong foundation for a new cultural platform rooted in African identity and artistic legacy.
