Sankofa Fest Ignites Carnival City with African Pride, Music and Culture
African print, bold hairstyles, and a deep love for music set the stage as fans filled the Big Top Arena at Carnival City on Saturday evening for the inaugural Sankofa Fest. The energy was electric from the moment doors opened, with attendees eager to witness a cultural celebration led by Thandiswa Mazwai. This was not just a concert; it was a declaration of heritage, artistry, and communal pride, bringing together generations of music lovers under one roof. The sold-out crowd reflected the anticipation surrounding Thandiswa’s milestone, as fans gathered to honor her legacy and experience performances that bridged the past and present. Every corner of the arena buzzed with excitement, vibrant colors, and the unmistakable spirit of African culture.
The event was skillfully hosted by Thandiswa’s sister, Ntsiki Mazwai, who delivered a heartfelt tribute, highlighting her sibling’s impact on music and culture. Comparing Thandiswa’s devotion to the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Ntsiki said, “Next to Winnie Mandela, I haven’t seen anyone love someone this much.” Her words resonated deeply with the audience, setting a reflective yet celebratory tone. The line-up was carefully curated to blend emerging talent with established icons, creating a dynamic and memorable evening. Vuyo Viwe, the winner of the Sankofa Fest Opening Act competition, kicked off the night with a stirring performance that immediately captured the crowd’s attention and set high expectations for the acts that followed.
Msaki’s performance evoked waves of nostalgia and emotion, as she delivered beloved classics including “Ubomi Abumanga” and “Khusela.” Her presence on stage reminded the audience of the enduring power of music to connect and heal. From the United States, Grammy-nominated artist Somi impressed fans with her rich, soulful vocals and captivating stage presence. Performing barefoot, she moved fluidly to the rhythm, paying homage to musical legends Miriam Makeba and Bra Hugh Masekela, whose influence shaped her artistry. Her set was both a tribute and a statement, celebrating the global reach of African music and the legacy of its icons.
Before Thandiswa’s appearance, the resident DJ energized the arena with a set that turned the venue into a lively dance floor. Classics such as Stimela Sase Zola by Mbongeni Ngena, Zwakala by Stimela, Congratulations by the late AKA, and Tswaka by HHP had the crowd singing along, bridging generational gaps and creating a collective experience of joy. The anticipation built steadily, culminating in Thandiswa’s entrance, which was met with deafening cheers and a wave of adoration. Phones lit up across the arena as fans captured every moment, while smiles and clapping filled the air. Her performance celebrated not only her 50th birthday but also a remarkable career in music, storytelling, and collaboration, highlighting her artistry in every movement and note.
Thandiswa Mazwai’s set featured collaborations that showcased her versatility and respect for musical heritage. A powerful moment came when musical legend Madala Kunene joined her on stage, creating a performance that will be remembered for years. Sankofa Fest proved to be more than a concert; it was a gathering of culture, pride, and artistic excellence, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present. Fans can continue to celebrate her music at upcoming performances, including the Summer Sunset Concert at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town, on 15 March, and The Playhouse Company in Durban on 20 March. The festival cemented its status as a significant cultural event, blending the vibrancy of African identity with the universal language of music.
