Mahikeng, Northwest: South Africa – 22 March 2023: With over 28 100 guests in attendance over the three days at this year’s epic run of Mahika Mahikeng, the festival was undoubtedly a resounding success. Bringing local artists and acts from across the nation to offer a unique music and cultural experience, as well as showcase Mahikeng’s hospitable skills.
The festival kickstarted with festivities and a cultural showcase and a carnival at Kgosi Montshioa’s residence. Guests from far and near were treated to a traditional experience through song and dance by local artists who proudly speak of their Setswana Heritage through their art. It was an opportunity not just for guests to be presented with a cultural experience but for local artists to financially benefit as well as learn from each other.
The three-day-long show appropriately set the tone for the weekend with a gospel explosion evening featuring performances from artists such as Bucy Radebe, Manana Ramogae,and David the King as well as the much anticipated Joyous Celebration. They warmed up guests, giving them a taste of what to expect during the festival weekend. With the mood for the festival set and guests anticipating the rest of their experience, they were then treated to a soulful evening of Jazz complimented by the cultural sounds of Mahikeng. Zonke, Aus Tebza, Ringo Madlingozi, and Ayanda Jiya amongst other exciting Jazz artists shared with guests unforgettable performances which included all-time favourite sing along. The experience would’ve been incomplete without a touch of tradition which was shared through the sounds of cultural artists such as Mma Ausi, who kept us moving to the beat of her traditional Tswana music.
With the festival fired up and the crowd left wanting more each evening, it was only right that it ended with an electrifying experience brought together by the sounds of Amapiano and Hip-Hop. Sunday night’s affair left no doubt in festival goers minds that Mahika Mahikeng is here to stay after a 2-yearr break due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Guests were treated to exhilarating performances by artists such as Dalinwonga, Young Stunna, Kabza De Small and Maphorisa who reminded us why we all love Amapiano. Scorpion Kings – a duo by Maphorisa and Kabza De Small – who appropriately guest curated SundayNights’s stage, made sure guests leave having had a full experience, bringing onto stage some of South Africa’sfavoritee Hip-Hop artists. These acts included performances by artists such as Tuks Senganga, KO, A Reec,e and Kwesta to name a few.
Supported by the Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation the three day festival which brought guests from parts of South Africa including neighbouring countries such as Botswana, went beyond the festival but simultaneously aimed at boosting the economic activities around Mahikeng.
“The hosting of the Mahika Mahikeng Music and Cultural festival not only boosts the economy of Mahikeng but also encourages the growth of Mahikeng’s Arts and Culture. It is through the event that every creative artist from mainstream musicians to traditional and cultural musical acts that our Arts and Culture is celebrated and seen as an important part of our province’s heritage.” North West MEC for Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation Hon. Kenosi Mosenogi
The festival which was undoubtedly a success not just for guests but for the local economy, which boosted small businesses and hospitality in Mahikeng over the three days. The event saw many local vendors participating and selling their merchandise, from food stalls, to drinks, biltong and art at the 2023 Mahika Mahikeng festival, with most vendors being grateful for the opportunity and platform to showcase their businesses.
“The Department of Economic Development appreciates the significant impact in Mahikeng due to the Mahika Mahikeng festival. Mahikeng Guest Houses, and accommodation products in and around Mahikeng area registered over 90% occupancy over the Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival weekend. This further positively impacted other businesses within the food sector as well as SMMEs. The event assists in bringing economic spin-offs to the town – allowing small business owners to play their part, benefiting from the business which the festival brings.” adds Economic Development MEC Hon Tsotso Tlhapi
It was an opportunity for the North West to show off all it has to offer, and with the festival making a comeback later this December, the community of Mahikeng, SMMEs and vendors who call Mahikeng home as well as fans from beyond the borders of the town can look forward to another lifetime experience, which can only be more epic.
