Afreefest: Musicians pledge 67 minutes for Mandela Day

The musicians and DJs on the line-up include Sun Xa Experiment, Sibusile Xaba, Mzansi Youth Choir, Makoomba, Themba (locally known as Euphonik) and Qadasi and Maqhinga. They will be joined by such artists such as Lady Zamar, Nakhane, Goodluck, Black Picket Fence, John Fairhurst and My Baby, among others. The festival will also feature Ubunye Yoyga for kids by Vanyah, as well as digital photographic exhibitions.

Inspired by the African message of ubuntu, Afreefest is a platform that was created to share cultural experiences in art, music and creativity.

The free 24-hour event seeks to celebrate freedom and spread a message of hope, resilience and unity. Each performing musician will share a personal 67-second message to the world at the event. The number symbolises the 67 years Nelson Mandela spent fighting for social justice. On Mandela Day, which was officially declared by the UN in 2009, people are asked to spend 67 minutes of their time to give back to the community and those who are less privileged.

“2020 is proving to be a year of difficulty for many of us. It is also a year that is seeing a lot of change, both positive and negative,” the festival organisers said. “The festival was created to give fans of music, art and creativity a space in which they can pause, breathe and connect with themselves and others.”

Afreefest will be streamed on Afreefest, SkyRoomLive and the SkyRoomLive Facebook page. Viewers are encouraged to donate. Donations will go towards several charitable efforts.

For more information, visit the Afreefest Facebook page.