Imbawula Music Festival Manifesto
Kwasuka sukela: Cosi…
Where every tale begins,
So too does our festival.
Rooted in memory,
Driven by music, Fueled by purpose.
In every kasi
In every khaya
There burns a fire that calls us home and brings us together.
They call it Imbawula,
A drum of warmth.
The nostalgia of inganekwani, iintsomi and amabali.
The rhythm of ingoma and song.
More than just heat in the cold, the Imbawula is a cradle of memory.
Where abo gogo nabo mkhulu shared wisdom,children listened, and communities came alive.
Kwasuka sukela…
Today, we gather around that fire once more. But this time, with music. With rhythm. With a profound purpose.
This is the Imbawula Music Festival. Our mission is to ignite collective healing and celebrate the vibrant spirit of our people, while standing as a powerful voice against the shadows that threaten our communities.
Welcome to a celebration of who we are. A fusion of genres, generations, and geographies. From Afro-soul to amapiano, jazz to gqom. This is where sound meets soul, and where our shared humanity takes centre stage.
Imbawula is not just an event, it’s a gathering of spirit, solidarity born from the urgent need for connection and change in our society. We believe in the power of art to unite, to educate, and to inspire resilience.
A catalyst for change…
Yes, we still carry the weight of our challenges. And one of the greatest, one that demands our immediate and unwavering attention, is the epidemic of Gender-Based Violence. This festival is committed to serve as a flame of hope and a call to rise, to speak, to act:
To amplify the voices of survivors and advocates.
To raise critical awareness that empowers communities to protect the vulnerable.
And to foster a culture of respect, safety, and dignity for all.
So come closer. Feel the rhythm. Share the heat. And let the fire in all of us burn brighter, not just in celebration, but in our collective resolve for a better future.
Join us. Be part of the change. Speak up. Stand with us. Your presence is your pledge.
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Imbawula Music Festival: Igniting South African Culture Through Rhythm, Unity & Purpose
Prepare to “Hear the Rhythm and Feel the Heat” as the Imbawula Music Festival, a vibrant new celebration of South African music, culture, and community, announces its premiere edition. This event promises an unforgettable festival experience where tradition meets innovation, emerging as a profound cultural experience designed to unite and empower.
Taking place on August 2, 2025, at the scenic Pretoria Botanical Gardens, the Imbawula Music Festival offers a one-of-a-kind cultural showcase, blending sound, storytelling, and social consciousness to unite the past and future of South African music.
Deeply rooted in South African heritage, the festival draws its name from the imbawula, a traditional coal heater known as Mbaula in TshiVenda and Kgotha in Setswana. Used in rural and township homes during the cold winter months, the imbawula provided more than physical warmth. It was a source of connection, where families gathered to share meals, songs, and oral traditions iintsomi, amabali, inganekwane, passed down through generations. Today, Imbawula re-emerges as a powerful cultural symbol, a space to gather, heal, speak, and act.
“Imbawula is about igniting pride, community, and connection through music,” says the organising team from AMN Investments. “We’re creating a space where people can dance, celebrate, and feel at home in their culture, while experiencing something truly world-class.”
Music fans can expect an eclectic mix of South Africa’s hottest genres: Amapiano, Kwaito, Afro-soul, Hip Hop, Jazz, Afro-tech, and more. Guiding this spectacular journey will be the legendary Somizi Mhlongo as the official MC. Headlining the premiere edition are Afro-house pioneer Sun-El Musician, soulful powerhouse Amanda Black, and Kwaito legends Trompies, delivering a nostalgic edge. Amapiano heavyweight Kelvin Momo will also debut new music exclusively at the festival, promising a fresh sonic journey.
Adding depth to the lineup are standout rising acts like jazz prodigy Saul Madiope. For a cross-border flavor that celebrates pan-African unity, Swazi stars Velemseni and Bholoja will also take the stage, showcasing rich regional diversity.
But Imbawula isn’t just about what happens on stage, it’s an immersive cultural experience for all the senses. Festivalgoers can explore silent discos, engage in interactive drum circles, and witness captivating live art performances. A vibrant marketplace will feature local food vendors erving up traditional African cuisine and contemporary street food, alongside craft stalls showcasing Gauteng’s finest artisans.
Surprise pop-ups and debut performances from boundary-pushing artists like Yung Cyberdj, Charlie TheChap, and Nale Yale promise to keep attendees on their toes. With dedicated zones for families, culture lovers, and nightlife seekers, Imbawula offers something for everyone in a welcoming, inclusive space.
”At its core, Imbawula is driven by social purpose. As South Africa grapples with a national crisis of gender-based violence (GBV), the festival serves as a space for unity, reflection, and action. Through programming that amplifies voices, honours lives lost, and promotes a culture of empathy and respect, Imbawula positions itself as more than a concert; it’s a cultural intervention.
“Our country is crying out for healing,” the organisers explain. “We believe music and community can help spark that change.”
Committed to youth empowerment and local economic upliftment, the festival partners with SMEs, youth organisations, and cultural groups to create real opportunities. Sustainability is also key with recycling, eco-conscious operations, and water conservation integrated throughout the event.
With over 100 trained security personnel, first-aid stations, and strict health and safety protocols, attendees can expect a well-organised, secure experience.
Whether you’re drawn by the beats of Amapiano, the warmth of tradition, or the urgency of social justice, Imbawula Music Festival invites all South Africans to gather around the fire once more, to dance, to listen, to heal, and to rise.
To purchase tickets for Imbawula Music Festival, please visit: https://www.howler.co.za/events/imbawula-music-festival-3fda.
PHASE 1
General: R250
VIP: R750
VVIP: R10 000
For media inquiries please contact:
Nonku Mahlangu
Email address: nonku@inversecapacity.co.za
Contact no: 067-018-6100
Artist Bios
FAQ's
- What genres or music cultures are represented in this year’s lineup? This year’s lineup represents a rich tapestry of genres including Amapiano, Kwaito, Afro-soul, Afro-pop, Jazz, Hip Hop, Afro-tech, Deep House, Maskandi Hip Hop, and more.
- How are artists selected or curated? What’s the criteria or vision behind the lineup? Artists are selected to reflect South Africa’s musical diversity, featuring a mix of established icons and emerging talent. The lineup reflects our vision of celebrating heritage, empowering youth, and connecting communities through music.
- Can you name a few standout acts in the lineup and why they are significant? Our lineup blends iconic and emerging African talent. Headliners include Afro-house innovator Sun-El Musician , Afro-soul powerhouse Amanda Black , Kwaito legends Trompies bringing nostalgic energy , and Amapiano pioneer Kelvin Momo. We are also excited to spotlight rising stars like Saul Madiope, a young jazz artist reviving a timeless genre. In the spirit of African unity, we are welcoming Swazi artists Velemseni and Bholoja as part of our commitment to cross-border cultural exchange and promoting tourism.
- Are there any exclusive performances, debut acts, collaborations, or first-time appearances happening? Yes, attendees can look forward to exclusive pop-up performances, debut appearances by exciting emerging artists such as Yung Cyberdj, Charlie TheChap, and Nale Yale, as well as unique cultural fusion acts that showcase fresh and innovative performances. Furthermore, latest album releases from artists like Kelvin Momo will treat attendees to some new music.
- Besides music, what other programming will there be? The festival will feature a variety of engaging experiences including silent discos, interactive drum circles, live art, curated food and drink experiences, and unexpected surprise performances throughout the event.
- Who is your ideal audience or target demographic? Our ideal audience includes urban, trend-conscious individuals aged 18–50, families, music lovers, and culturally engaged citizens across all races and genders.
- How do you want attendees to feel while at the festival? We want attendees to feel inspired, joyful, connected, and proud of their cultural identity.
- What kinds of accessibility, inclusivity, or sustainability measures have been put in place? The event incorporates inclusive programming and actively engages diverse service providers, including individuals with disabilities and those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. We are committed to sustainability through the use of recyclable materials and the implementation of eco-friendly practices throughout the event.
- Will the event be family-friendly, 18+, or include different zones for different types of guests? It is a family-friendly event with diverse zones catering to different age groups and interests.
- What will the food, art, or retail experience be like? Any collaborations with local vendors? Attendees can look forward to an authentic experience featuring traditional African cuisine, craft beverages, and a vibrant selection of vendor stalls. All food, art, and retail offerings are proudly sourced through collaborations with local vendors and Gauteng-based businesses.
- What safety, security, or wellness protocols should attendees be aware of? The event will be secured by 100+ trained local security personnel, ensuring a safe environment for all attendees. Strict adherence to environmental, health, and safety regulations will be maintained throughout the event.
- How can people get involved beyond attending? There are several ways to get involved beyond attending, including volunteering, becoming a sponsor, or participating as a vendor. We welcome community engagement at every level.
- Can you tell us who the founders/organizers are and their professional backgrounds? The festival is organized by AMN Investments, a leading firm focused on growth and innovation across property, entertainment, telecoms, and logistics. Led by a team with vast event organising experience who bring strong expertise in event management, cultural programming, and youth empowerment to ensure a professional and community-centered festival.
- What motivated you personally to start or get involved with this festival? Our motivation stems from a passion for music, cultural celebration, and creating platforms for youth and community development.
- What were the biggest challenges you’ve faced in bringing this idea to life? The biggest challenges have been securing funding, coordinating a diverse range of stakeholders, and building a strong brand from the ground up.
- How does your personal story or background inform the vision of the festival? The vision of the festival is deeply informed by the team’s collective commitment to community upliftment and cultural pride, fueled by a shared passion for art, music, and culture.
- What do you hope people say about the festival after attending? We hope people say, “That was the most authentic, joyful, and inspiring celebration of South African culture I’ve ever experienced”.
- What’s one story or anecdote that captures the spirit of the festival so far? The overwhelming community interest and volunteer sign-ups even before the first lineup was announced speaks volumes about the festival’s resonance.
- Are you partnering with any community groups, cultural leaders, or non-profit organizations? Yes, we are actively partnering with local SMEs, youth groups, and cultural organisations, all of whom play an integral role in the planning and execution of the event.
- How are you funding the event? Any notable partnerships or supporters? The event is primarily funded by AMN Investments, complemented by revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, and partnerships with local businesses and service providers.
Some Images from our Media Launch
