MALKERNS – MTN Eswatini has injected E5 million into the 2026 edition of MTN Bushfire, reinforcing a long standing partnership that organisers say goes beyond telecommunications and speaks to access, youth empowerment and cultural growth.
The announcement was made during the official launch of the 19th edition of the festival at House on Fire, where special guests, partners and artists gathered under open skies to ignite the symbolic flame for MTN Bushfire 2026.
Organisers described MTN Eswatini as the driving force behind the seamless connections that shape the Bushfire experience. Under this year’s theme, Juncture of Hum, connection is positioned at the centre of the festival, linking thousands of Fire Starters from different backgrounds who unite, immerse and belong. 
From discounted MoMo ticket sales that keep the festival accessible to emaSwati, to tailored products and services designed for a multicultural audience, MTN’s involvement continues to anchor the event in the local landscape while maintaining its global appeal.
The launch also unveiled the roadmap to “Bring Your Fire” from 29 to 31 May 2026, when the festival returns for its 19th edition. Organisers shared updates on this year’s theme, the role of Fire Starters and upcoming artist announcements, all rooted in the pillars of Creativity, Unity and Sustainability.
Entertainment on the night came from eSwatini born singer songwriter iYA Music, who took to the stage with Ndumiso Dlamini on the keys. Known for soulful storytelling and a genre defying sound, she delivered a performance that set the tone for the upcoming festival.
The event also introduced the MTN Bushfire Firefly 2026 Top 10. Cool Drop, Leelo G, Emagagu, Sweli, JD, Morewish, AS4JerryP, Hillary Mirindi, MCO Jamrock and Kyro will compete at the Firefly Grand Finale on Friday, 24 April at House on Fire. The winner will secure a coveted spot on the MTN Bushfire main stage.
They will share the Grand Finale stage with South African artist BLXCKIE, local Afrobeats singer Chantel and Hip Hop Deck maestro Bandora.
Beyond performance opportunities, the Top 3 finalists will walk away with mobile phones, professional recording time, studio sessions, a music video and a full university scholarship from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology. Organisers describe Firefly as more than a competition but a launchpad for emerging talent.
The festival also reaffirmed its social impact partnership with boMake Rural Projects, a beneficiary focused on women empowerment, environmental sustainability and community development across rural Eswatini. Merchandise sales during the festival will directly support boMake’s work on the ground.
His Excellency EU Ambassador Karsten Mecklenburg attended the launch, signalling continued collaboration through the EU Bushfire Schools Festival, which takes arts programming to young people across the country.
The programme was steered by MCs Phiwokuhle Mandisa Dlamini and Anakhonza Kunene, who ushered in the official proceedings of MTN Bushfire 2026.
Tickets for the Firefly Grand Finale are available via the MoMo WhatsApp Marketplace, as anticipation builds for one of Africa’s leading sustainable festivals.
