Heritage Day 2025 is about to shine brighter with the arrival of the inaugural AfroFlair Mzansi Festival, a cultural showcase that promises to blend music, markets, and the entrepreneurial spirit of South Africa into one unforgettable experience.
Set for Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the historic Soweto Equestrian Centre in Rockville, the festival runs from 10am to 7pm and will bring together some of Mzansi’s most loved musicians alongside a bustling expo of township entrepreneurs, crafters, and farmers.
Music, Markets & Mzansi Magic
Backed by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC) through its flagship Mzansi Golden Economy (MGE) initiative, the event is designed to be more than just entertainment—it’s an economic and cultural empowerment platform.
Music lovers can expect powerhouse live performances from the iconic Afro-pop band Mafikizolo, Afro-soul star Zamajobe, and Afro-pop trio Encore. Adding to the excitement will be a special collaborative set, curated and led by the high-energy band Shef & the Kitchen with their Afro-jazz funk fusion. This exclusive performance will feature the electrifying singer-songwriter Tubatsi, renowned for his genre-defying sound fusing blues, jazz, rock and African folk music, alongside the rising blues outfit Sekenhand.
To keep the vibe alive before the headliners take to the stage, Soweto’s own DJ talents, the charismatic Jozi FM weekend drive-time presenter & DJ renowned for her charm, infectious energy and masterful crowd connection, thee Refiloe Motsei – sharing the stage with another crowned favourite Proteen BOG – will deliver evergreen R&B/soul sets that capture the heartbeat of the township.
Alongside the music, the festival will showcase a trade expo where local farmers, artisans, and small business owners will display their goods—bringing the essence of township entrepreneurship to the forefront.
A Heritage Tribute with Impact
For festival co-founder Georgina Lefifi of Bonisiwe Consulting, the vision goes beyond celebration.
“AfroFlair Mzansi Festival is more than a day of music and food – it is a tribute to the extraordinary creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that define our nation. Heritage Day is about who we are, and through this festival, we bring together artisans, farmers, musicians, and small businesses to showcase the very best of Mzansi,” says Lefifi.
She continues:
“It’s about creating sustainable platforms for local talent while paying homage to our shared cultural tapestry.”
With strong support from the DSAC’s Mzansi Golden Economy, Lefifi emphasizes the importance of placing arts and culture at the heart of South Africa’s growth story:
“With the invaluable support of the DSAC’s Mzansi Golden Economy, we are positioning arts and culture as true drivers of economic growth & social cohesion.”
A Festival with Purpose
By merging live performances, cultural markets, and entrepreneurial platforms, AfroFlair Mzansi Festival promises to be a Heritage Day celebration that not only entertains but also empowers.
For Soweto and beyond, it’s a new cultural gem set to shine annually as a testament to the spirit of music, markets, and meaningful impact. Bringing this to life is the strategic partnership with the Soweto Farmers Market, whose established community roots amplify the festival’s economic empowerment mission.
Mbulelo Ntshatsha, co-founder of Soweto Farmers Market, expressed pride in the collaboration:
“Partnering with AfroFlair Mzansi Festival is a natural fit for us. Just as our market creates a platform for small farmers and township businesses, this festival extends that spirit on a bigger stage. It’s about building an inclusive economy where local talent and entrepreneurs are seen, supported, and celebrated.”
📅 Event Details
- Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025 (Heritage Day)
- Time: 10h00 – 19h00
- Venue: Soweto Equestrian Centre, 1679 Vundla & Lefatola, Rockville
- Tickets: Available via Computicket
- Kids: R40
- Adults: R80 (Early Bird) | R120 at the gate
- Parking: Free within the festival premises
- What to Bring: Camp chairs, cooler box (no glass bottles), sunscreen, hats & dancing shoes
Book a Stall:
Showcase your brand or products at the AfroFlair Mzansi Festival.
- Vendor Lineup: Arts & crafts, cuisine chefs, agro-processors, designers, beverage makers and many more.
- To Book a Stall: Text AfroFlair to WhatsApp 062 436 0342 or email info@sowetofarmersmarket.com
