Celebrating Cultural Diversity: The Launch of the 2024 Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience
By Thulane Madalane
Mbombela:The vibrant city of Mbombela came alive on Tuesday as Deparment of Culture, Sport and Recreation MEC Leah Mabuza announced the launch of the 9th edition of the Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience, set to unfold in November and December. Designed to showcase the province’s rich cultural heritage and foster social cohesion, this annual event promises a thrilling lineup for artists,residents and visitors alike.
The announcement took place at a recently opened eatery called 34 on Saturn that offers a diverse array of options, from refined dining to cozy accommodation, making it the perfect setting for the celebration of Mpumalanga’s hospitality. Leading up to the media launch, journalists had the unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking Gorge Lift Co in Graskop, where they engaged in various activities, including the Viewing Lift and Forest Experience, The Big Swing, Zipline, and Cliff Walk. Their day concluded with a delightful meals and drinks at Prestige Pub and Restaurant, featuring traditional dishes such as pap served with sugar beans and roasted cow hoof.
Since its inception in 2016, the Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience has become a cornerstone of the province’s cultural calendar. MEC Mabuza emphasized that the festival is more than just a celebration; it serves as a crucial platform for showcasing the artistic talent and diverse beauty of Mpumalanga. This year’s edition aims to deepen community engagement while offering emerging artists and small enterprises a chance to gain visibility and stimulate economic growth.
At the heart of this event lies a commitment to inclusivity. MEC Mabuza expressed the festival’s ambition to unite the province’s diverse ethnic backgrounds, ensuring all participants feel welcome and valued. The event also aims to generate significant economic opportunities, featuring an array of activities designed to invigorate local businesses and bolster tourism.
As the preparations for the 2024 edition unfold, MEC Mabuza expressed excitement for the vast opportunities this festival will provide for the province and its people. The festival will revolve around seven distinct pillars, enhancing its relevance and appeal, all while making Mbombela the central hub of operations.
This year’s festival is set to feature an impressive number of participants, including 122 provincial artists, 18 cultural groups, eight traditional ensembles, and nine choirs.
In its effort to empower emerging talent, the festival will host a Music Creative Workshop from November 27 to 29, accommodating 350 participants. This workshop will cover crucial topics such as music compliance, performance rights, digital airplay, and funding strategies.
Concluding the announcement, MEC Mabuza extended heartfelt gratitude to all who support the province’s artistic and athletic talents. With palpable enthusiasm, She officially activated the 2024 Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience season, inviting everyone to partake in what promises to be an unforgettable array of activities.
“This event is an opportunity to market our province,” MEC Mabuza stated. “It’s a platform for our artists to showcase their talent and promote entrepreneurship. We are thrilled to have Somizi as part of this celebration, as he embodies our vision.”
The festival’s pillars—Comedy Xperience, Carnival Xperience, Kasi Xperience, Soul Sessions, Choral Xperience, Traditional Xperience, and Marathon—will allow for a broad range of cultural expressions. MEC Mabuza encouraged artists to use their earnings responsibly while underscoring the importance of uplifting local talent.
The MEC also expressed pride in sponsorships for standalone events such as the 013 Summer Blaze and the Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards, highlighting the province’s rich talent pool. “This festival reflects the diversity of our cultural heritage, and we are committed to making it a truly inclusive endeavor,” she stated.
Additionally, Mr. Godfrey Ntombela, Head of Department, acknowledged the event’s potential for boosting the province’s revenue, via increased patronage at restaurants and accommodations. “This event has enormous return on investment, and we aim to quantify its economic impact through dedicated research scheduled for completion by February,” he explained.
Somizi Mhlongo, the brand ambassador for the Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience, encapsulated the spirit of the festival, urging citizens to thrive and ensure resources benefit the communities of Mpumalanga.
Among other brand ambassadors for this remarkable event are Lucia Simelane-Ochan,Mich Mazibuko Mooi Mooi, Nomfundo Zimu (Fufu-the Thicklady), Judith Sephuma, and Nothembi Mkhwebane. Luminaries such as Bosman Grobler, DCSR Portfolio Chairperson, attended the launch and lauded the department for its dedication to enhancing sports and culture across the province.
The Pillars of Experience
The 2024 Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience will showcase the following seven pillars, each with its own scheduled date and venue:
1. Comedy Xperience
Date: 28 November 2024
Venue: Emnotweni Arena, City of Mbombela
2. Carnival Xperience
Date: 29 November 2024
Venue: Promenade Centre, City of Mbombela
3. Kasi Xperience
Date: 29 November 2024
Venue: Tom Tiger Villa, Mhluzi Township
4. Soul Session
Date: 01 December 2024
Venue: Lowveld Botanical Gardens
5. Choral Xperience
Date: 30 November 2024
Venue: Siphumelele Teachers Centre, Elukwatini
6. Traditional Xperience
Date: 07 December 2024
Venue: Mandlamikhulu Traditional Council
7. Marathon Xperience
Date: 07 December 2024
Venue: GaMorwe Stadium, Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality
The stage is set for a celebration of culture, talent, and communal pride, as the Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience gears up for an unforgettable festival in 2024.
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