MBABANE – A new partnership between Makoti Festival and Orchard Insurance is set to bring both celebration and financial benefit to festivalgoers, following a media briefing held on Friday, March 20, 2026.
The organisers confirmed that Orchard Insurance has committed E100 000 towards a raffle draw that will see three attendees walk away with cash prizes of E50 000 for first place, E30 000 for second, and E20 000 for third. The draw is open to individuals aged 18 and above who purchase Phase 3 tickets.
The Makoti Festival, which celebrates women, culture and community, will now take place on May 2, 2026, at Malkerns Country Club after a shift from its initial April 25 date. 
Speaking during the briefing, Orchard Insurance Managing Director Joseph Museva said the partnership aligns with the company’s mission of supporting families and communities through accessible insurance solutions.
“I’m honored to represent Orchard Insurance as its managing director. Today, we are proud to announce our partnership with Makoti Festival. A celebration that recognizes women and upholds the values that keep our families and communities strong,” he said.
He added that the initiative goes beyond entertainment, touching on financial security and empowerment.
“As part of this partnership, Orchard is proud to sponsor the Makoti Festival, provide financial support, but more importantly, fund a special cash raffle prize that will be won by three individuals who will be attending the Makoti Festival. The prize pool for this sponsorship is E100 000,” he said.
In addition to the raffle, all Phase 3 ticket holders will receive a 12 month Orchard funeral cover valued at E5 000, subject to a six month waiting period for natural death, while accidental death cover begins immediately.
Joseph explained that the offering is meant to make insurance accessible to all emaSwati.
“We want to make it clear that insurance is for everyone in the societies that Makotis reside in. It is neither for the wealthy or the middle income, it is for everyone. From as little as E16 per month, Makotis can cover themselves and their families,” he said.
Festival organisers said the collaboration introduces a new dimension to the event by merging entertainment with practical benefits.
“This collaboration combines entertainment with meaningful benefits, offering festivalgoers not only a chance to win substantial cash prizes but to also access Orchard Funeral Insurance coverage,” a representative said.
The organisers also confirmed that the raffle is regulated under Eswatini’s gaming requirements, noting that they hold the necessary licence.
Beyond the financial incentives, the festival continues to position itself as a platform for women empowerment, cultural pride and local talent promotion. About 90 percent of the performance lineup is expected to feature local artists.
Organisers also spoke about a renewed focus on promoting traditional Swazi attire, encouraging attendees to embrace local regalia that is more accessible.
“What we noted with previous editions is that attendees adopted designs from other countries, which excluded some Makotis who could not afford them. This year we are going back to our culture,” one organiser said.
Ticket holders will be required to register their details online after purchase in order to activate their insurance cover and qualify for the raffle draw. Orchard Insurance confirmed that its offices in Mbabane, Manzini and Nhlangano, as well as online and WhatsApp platforms, will assist clients with claims and enquiries.
