WeeklySA_AdminLEGEND: The organisers hope, through Mandoza’s iconic Nkalakatha song, to kindle the spirit of unity that encompassed the ditty in the past 25 years…
By Priscilla Malinga
Nkalakatha Fest’25, to be held in memory of the late Kwaito icon Mandoza Tshabalala, is scheduled to take place at Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg on December 20, and the organisers promise a bigger and better event.
Mpho Tshabalala, Mandoza’s wife and director of the Mpho Mandoza Tshabalala Foundation, said the upcoming event was more than a festival – a movement of unity.
Fans will be kept on their feet with the sounds of old school house and drips of the fashionable Amapiano songs.
The festival is not just about music and celebration of the late legend, but is part of a drive to empower the South African youth. A portion of proceeds will go towards the Nkalakatha Bursary Fund, to support the youth through education and opportunity.
Through Mandoza’s iconic song Nkalakatha, the organisers hope to revive the spirit of unity that encompassed the ditty in the past decades.
Tshabalala says that it makes sense to remember the man behind the song as we are celebrating 25 years since it was released
The Nkalakatha Festival and Lecoq collaboration will see the Mandoza merchandise being released in December. This is a partnership to celebrate the legend and to also be a part of the movement to educate and empower the youth.
The festival will feature a multi-genre lineup across Kwaito, Gqom, Amapiano, rock and gospel, with special tribute performances honouring Mandoza’s legacy.
At the heart of the event will be the Nkalakatha Village, an immersive space filled with South African cuisine, art, storytelling, exclusive merchandise, and interactive brand experiences.
It also marks the beginning of an annual movement, one that merges music, culture, and social impact under the spirit of unity.
“The song celebrates confidence, pride, and the courage to stand tall. It tells us: You are seen. You are powerful. You are unstoppable,” she added. “When we hear Nkalakatha, we are reminded that greatness is not reserved for a few, it is born in every township, every village, and every home. It is the rhythm that tells us to claim our place, to lead with boldness, and to live with purpose. Let the energy of Nkalakatha fuel your journey”.
Tickets are available at Webtickets, Pick n’ Pay and Boxer. Early Bird tickets cost R350, general tickets (R450) and VIP (R1850).
