WeeklySA_AdminVOICES: Khuzani and Sjava lead a diverse line-up as the Khayelitsha Maskandi Festival introduces an “and Friends” edition celebrating the connections between traditional and contemporary South African music…
By WSAM Reporter
The Khayelitsha Maskandi Festival is widening its musical embrace, bringing Sjava and artists from complementary South African genres into a celebration that will keep Maskandi at its heart.
Returning to the Khayelitsha Rugby Stadium in Cape Town on November 7, the event will introduce its new identity as the Khayelitsha Maskandi Festival and Friends, with performances scheduled from noon until 10pm.
Khuzani and Sjava are among the headline attractions in a line-up that brings together established performers and emerging voices for a day of music, culture and community.
Festival spokesperson Siphokazi Zanazo says the expanded format is intended to attract new audiences while preserving the event’s musical foundations.
“The ‘and Friends’ concept is about growing the festival without losing what makes it special. Maskandi is at the heart of who we are, but South African music has always evolved through different sounds, influences and generations coming together,” she says.
“We want to celebrate those connections and give our audience an even bigger experience this summer.”
Sjava’s inclusion reflects that meeting of musical traditions. His sound combines African Trap Music, hip-hop and R&B with African and isiZulu musical influences. He has also spoken about the influence of Maskandi, isicathamiya and mbaqanga on his work.
His appearance offers a link between the festival’s traditional roots and contemporary sounds, opening opportunities for audiences across generations to share the experience.
Other confirmed performers include JikiJiki, Mlindo, Shwi Nomtekhala, Nkeshemba, Menzi, Mnotho, Ntofontofo, Myovu, Saliwa, Shenge, Sminofu, Limit Nala, Mpathiwohlelo and Prince Sotashe.
According to organisers, the festival has grown into a cultural platform connecting musicians, audiences from across the Western Cape and local businesses.
The November edition will again provide opportunities for food vendors, traders and other enterprises to participate. Food stalls and additional attractions will complement the performances, with further entertainment and programme details still to be announced.
Zanazo says the audience’s response to previous editions has encouraged organisers to expand the experience.
“This November is about bringing that familiar Maskandi energy together with new sounds and new audiences. We want people to come for the music, stay for the atmosphere and leave knowing they were part of something that represents the spirit and pride of South African music and culture,” she says.
General admission tickets range from R200 to R500 and are available through Webtickets, Pick n Pay and Boxer stores.
Organisers have also announced VIP and VVIP packages, including options priced at R10 000 for five people and R20 000 for 10 people. Further information about these packages, vendor participation and the festival programme will be communicated through the event’s official social media channels.
