15 October | 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UKZN Celebrates 21 Years of African Cultural Excellence with the African Cultural Calabash 2026
Theme:“21 Years of Togetherness – Emsamu Wabomdabu”
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) School of Arts Music, in partnership with the African Music Project, proudly presents the 21st African Cultural Calabash Festival, taking place on 15 October 2026 at 19:30 at the Howard College Theatre as part of the AMD@30 celebrations
Celebrating more than two decades of cultural preservation, artistic excellence, and community engagement, the African Cultural Calabash has become one of UKZN’s flagship cultural events. This year’s milestone festival, themed “21 Years of Togetherness – Emsamu Wabomdabu,” honours the enduring power of African music, heritage, dance, cuisine, and storytelling in bringing communities together.
Hosted and organised by third-year students in the African Music Outreach: Community Development programme at UKZN under the supervision of Dr Patricia Opondo, the festival provides an important platform for emerging artists while showcasing the richness and diversity of South Africa’s cultural traditions.
A Celebration of Music, Heritage and Talent
Audiences can look forward to an exciting line-up of acclaimed and emerging performers:
uNgena (Mdumiseni Thwala)
A talented 24-year-old musician from Emnambithi, Ngena has made a name for himself with popular songs such as Emagqumeni, Uvalo, and Emabaleni. His music reflects contemporary African sounds rooted in tradition.
Nomakhosi (Sbahle Dladla)
Born and raised in Ntuzuma, Nomakhosi is a gifted vocalist whose powerful performances and storytelling celebrate KwaZulu-Natal’s rich musical heritage. She is currently a third-year AMD student and a member of the 2026 Calabash organising committee.
Somnyamakazi
This 19-year-old Afropop artist from Inanda is gaining recognition for her impactful music, including the 2026 single Isililo, which raises awareness about gender-based violence and promotes social change through the arts.
Umlazi Tremendous Boys
The renowned 28-member isicathamiya ensemble from Umlazi uses music as a vehicle for cultural preservation, education, and community development, inspiring audiences across generations.
Amashiya Kubuswa
This dynamic 40-member group from UKZN’s Howard College campus is dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional ushameni dance form, ensuring its continued relevance among younger generations.
Experience African Cuisine
Following the concert, guests will enjoy the festival’s much-anticipated African Cuisine Function, featuring a variety of delicious traditional African dishes and offering a unique cultural dining experience.
Event Details
Date: 15 October 2026
Time: 19:30
Venue: Howard College Theatre, Howard College Campus
Ticket Prices: Adults: R100, and Students: R60
Ticket Enquiries: Nosipho Zuma 073 786 6591 and Philangezi Bhengu 081 001 2498
Media Enquiries
Ms Thulile Zama, Tel: 031 260 3385 and Dr Patricia Opondo, opondop@ukzn.ac.za