eSwatini: MTN Bushfire announces festival dates

This year’s festival marks the first full in-person gathering following COVID-19 restrictions over the past two years, with the organisers launching its Digital Series in 2021.

“MTN Bushfire 2022 will be an exciting chance to reconnect with the music and arts of Africa, as well as with fellow Fire Starters, in a spirit of joy and celebration,” they said. “#BringYourFire once more to eSwatini and be part of Reigniting The Fire as we come together again in 2022.”

MTN Bushfire said festivalgoers would be required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination. “The requirement is eligible for all ages eligible for vaccination. MTN Bushfire has taken this decision in conjunction with its partners as it is the best way to ensure the health and safety of festivalgoers, artists, festival staff and local communities. The festival’s commitment to the creative sector, as well as to the broader eSwatini community, is an integral element of the Bring Your Fire mandate to create positive social change.”

Artists will perform on different stages, including the Main Stage, Amphitheatre, and Firefly. In addition, the festival will feature zones offering inclusive experiences, food, market items, and games for children, as well as opportunities for festivalgoers to contribute to positive social and environmental change.

The line-up of artists performing at the event has not been announced yet. Previous artists who have performed at the MTN Bushire include Salif Keita, Yemi Alade, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Hugh Masekela, TKZee, Matthew Mole, Jay Prayzah, Jojo Abot, Baloji, Bombino and Petite Noir, among many others.

Festival beneficiaries

MTN Bushfire will support two beneficiary organisations, namely Young Heroes and boMake Rural Projects in line with the festival’s signal call to action, #BringYourFire, which encourages a positive social and environmental shift.

“These two organisations stand right at the heart of the festival’s social mandate, having received support from MTN Bushfire for many years. Please help support these amazing organisations, as they make a tremendous positive difference to the lives of thousands of women and children in rural eSwatini.”

Tickets to the festival are now available for purchase via the MTN Bushfire website. Tickets that were purchased in 2020 can only be used in 2022, but ticket holders will need to re-register their options for this year.