SA artists set to wow Swaziland
MUSICIANS IGNORE BOYCOTT
SOUTH African artists will attend and perform at the MTN Bushfire Festival in Swaziland despite a call to boycott the event.
The international festival of the arts will take place from May 31 to June 2.
In 2011, the Swaziland Democracy Campaign called off its planned boycott of the Bushfire Festival after meeting with organisers.
But South African-based Swaziland Solidarity Network has run its campaign for a total boycott of all sports and cultural events in Swaziland since April 2011 to protest against the regime of King Mswati.
In a statement on the Bushfire website, last year ’ s festival director, Jiggs Thorne, acknowledged the call for a cultural boycott but said the cultural community of Swaziland was never consulted and does not support it.
He called for the suspen- sion of the boycott, saying it “reduces the avenues for freedom of expression ” in the country.
South African artist Jeremy Loops said: “I am honoured to have the privilege to take part in a truly conscious festival.”
Through its innovative and development-focused approach, the festival gives back to the people of Swaziland.
All profits are donated to two Swazi charities, Young Heroes – a child sponsorship programme helping Swaziland orphans, and Gone Rural boMake – a charity that assists rural Swaziland women.
Velile Sithole, managing director of the a cappella trio The Soil ’ s record company Native Rhythm, confirmed that the group was billed to perform in Swaziland.
“We will use this platform to inspire the youth around the world that even in spite of adversity there is hope out there,” The Soil ’ s Ntsika Ngxanga said.
This year ’ s line-up once again showcases the best music the continent and beyond has to offer.
Artists such as Nakhane Toure, Pedro the Music Man, The Brother Moves On, Toya Delazy, Gcina Mhlope and Black Motion, among others, are set to delight their fans at the festival. – motaud@sowetan.co.za