By Mark Ogagan
Popular South African festival, the Mangaung African Cultural Festival (Macufe) finally kicks off this week in Bloemfontein, Free State after a two-year break.
Macufe Festival is an annual showcase of African arts, culture and diverse performances, and is one of the largest emerging festivals in Africa. It grew rapidly from an audience of 30 000 in 1997 to 140 000 in 2015.
Macufe lovers say they are thrilled but worried about the quality of artists especially for the main event.
Some of the stars scheduled to perform at the main jazz event on 6th September are Judith Sephuma, Thandiswa Mazwai, Makhadzi, Malaika, Trevor Bouwer and Jaziel Brothers.
The festival aims to stimulate the economy and provide growth opportunities for small businesses in the Free State.
The event was shelved following issues of tender irregularities.
Macufe lovers who are happy the festival has returned, shared their sentiments.
“To be honest, I’m very happy. A lot of things will be happening, helping people that are not getting jobs. So, it’s very good for tourism. You are going to benefit a lot,” says one of the people.
“Our children are now taking our space at the last day of the jazz. You know, that’s where we relax with our babies. Now, this amapianos that will come there,” says another person.
“I feel happy but I don’t have money to go,” says another.
MEC for Sports Arts and Culture MEC, Ntombizanele Sifuba says Free State people should just enjoy the festival.
“We are happy that the festival will continue in the next few days as announced. We urge the Macufe patrons to go and get their tickets for all the events. We are looking forward to seeing you from the 3rd to the 7th of September. We know that people are excited; go out there and get your tickets,” says Sifuba.
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