Inaugural Ziyakhala Mo Sun City Festival celebrates traditional music, culture and fashion

The SABC and Sun City are excited about the inaugural Ziyakhala Mo Sun City Festival, an eclectic celebration of traditional music, culture and fashion.

The groundbreaking collaboration sees Sun City partner with the SABC’s nine African language stations. “Ziyakhala” is a slang term that roughly translates to “it's happening”, or “the party's on”.

The festival is taking place on June 28, featuring traditional maskandi music artists Mthandeni Sk, Sjava, Qadasi and Maqhinga. The event promotes authentic local music from artists Ringo Madlingozi, King Monada, Cassper Nyovest, Dr Nothembi Mkhwebane, Makhadzi, Lwah Ndlunkulu, Ntate Stunna, Gen Muzka and five-time Grammy award-winners Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The selection of artists will allow South Africans from all cultures to experience the nation's diverse musical offerings.

Nombuso Buthelezi, Sun City’s head of events, said: “We are excited that this truly unique partnership will allow us to touch all corners of the country and reach lovers of traditional SA music who will experience a one-of-a-kind cultural celebration at Sun City Resort”.

Thinasiphelele Sixaso, SABC general manager for public service radio, said: “The partnership will allow a seamless and authentic amalgamation of leading voices in the entertainment space to speak directly to their audience and share their love for South African music and culture with them.

“The SABC is the custodian of the country’s cultural expressions and music heritage, therefore our role is to tell the creative industry stories through our African language stations, which are the perfect platforms to enrich the cultural heritage of SA. We are excited that our stations play a critical role in supporting traditional artistic expression through partnerships such as this.”