WINDHOEK– The South African Afro-pop group/band, Mafikizolo, made up of lead singer/composer Nhlanhla Sibongile Mafu Nciza and songwriter/composer/singer Theo Kgosinkwe is featuring at the Monate Festival, a collective of local young entrepreneurs who are passionate about developing the arts and culture sector in the country.
This year, the Monate Festival is being celebrated in style at the University of Namibia (Unam) Pavilion tomorrow featuring Mafikizolo. Mafikizolo’s music is also influenced by Kwaito and they have been credited with a genre called Kwela, after their style of music years ago. It has also been described as Kwaito-Cum-Marabi House music. Their music deals with pertinent social issues such as women and children abuse, poverty, the importance of education and the dangers of casual sex.
Petunia Matjila-Francisco, Coordinator of this festival, says they decided to feature Mafikizolo this year because Namibians love Mafikizolo’s music and a lot of their songs have been topping up our local charts, especially their new house song, Khona. Yet most of their fans in Namibia have never seen them perform live on stage. “We wanted to share with Namibians this experience,” says Matjila-Francisco. “Our fellow Namibians will enjoy the diverse line up of musical acts, arts and other entertainment offered. This second annual festival will be a great opportunity for families and friends; locals and visitors; to enjoy the summer outdoors, while listening to heart-stopping local and international melodies, get down to funky beats and to appreciate local arts, eats, and be treated to the hive of entertainment,” she adds.
Local artists to perform alongside Mafikizolo are Dixon, Sally, Ru, Exit, DJ Amizzy and DJ Cue point. “The intention is that, this event will grow and develop upon itself for years to come and act as Summer Festival, a one of a kind VIP experience. It includes free shots, champagne and snacks all night long and exclusive entry to the golden circle. This will also give Namibians a chance to “meet and greet” with Mafikizolo and other local acts,” she boasts. Tickets are available at Computickets for N$150 ordinary tickets and VIPs N$ 400. And at the gate tickets will go up to N$ 200. Gates will open at four O’clock (16h00)
By Pinehas Nakaziko