WeeklySA_AdminEXPERIENCE: After a sold-out debut, the music festival that celebrates Mzansi’s sound and spirit is back — bigger, louder, and rooted in unity…
By Priscilla Malinga
The sound of Mzansi is set to echo once again through the iconic Sun City Superbowl as Ziyakhala Mo Sun City returns for its second edition on Saturday, 27 June 2026.
Backed by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and Sun City Resort, the festival is positioning itself not just as a concert, but as a cultural movement — one that blends music, heritage, and national pride into a single electrifying experience.
Following a sold-out debut in 2025 — with tickets snapped up in just three weeks — expectations for this year’s edition are significantly higher.
Sun City Marketing Manager Thapelo Modise says the excitement is already building.
“We are incredibly excited to announce what will be a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Ziyakhala is one of our key partner events and continues to bring dynamic entertainment to the resort.”
Sun City General Manager Brett Hoppe, with over three decades in the industry, describes the festival as unlike anything he has experienced.
“I have never encountered a festival as powerful as Ziyakhala. It brings people together in a way that is both meaningful and impactful,” he said, adding that events of this scale also boost tourism and create much-needed employment in the North West.
Music and identity
In partnership with the SABC and its nine African Language radio stations, the festival aims to amplify indigenous music and cultural expression.
Siphelele Sixaso, GM of SABC Public Broadcasting Service radio stations, says the event goes beyond entertainment.
“Ziyakhala Mo Sun City is more than a celebration — it’s a movement. African music defines who we are, it unites us and gives us a shared identity.”
He adds that the festival embodies the spirit of Ubuntu — connection, unity, and shared joy.
The 2026 edition promises a genre-crossing musical showcase, bringing together some of South Africa’s most celebrated and emerging artists.
Audiences can expect performances from: Lekompo sensation Shandesh, Afro-pop legends Mafikizolo, Motswako pioneer Khuli Chana, Maskandi heavyweight Khuzani, Amapiano star Young Stunna and reggae icon Dr Colbert Mukwevho. In addition, there is a dynamic mix of rising and regional talents including Encore, Sannere, Phumla Music, and more.
Together, the line-up reflects the rich diversity of South African sound — from traditional roots to contemporary street anthems.
Beyond the music, Ziyakhala Mo Sun City is carving out a space as a platform for cultural preservation and recognition.
The event will once again honour a living legend in South Africa’s music industry, continuing its commitment to celebrating those who have shaped the nation’s sonic identity.
For Sun City, the festival is also part of a broader legacy. “For over four decades, Sun City has hosted some of the world’s greatest performers,” said Hoppe.
“But it is equally important to celebrate the extraordinary talent we have at home. Our stages are built for stories like these.”
