Prepare to "Hear the Rhythm and Feel the Heat" as the Imbawula Music Festival, a vibrant new celebration of South African music, culture, and community, announces its premiere edition. This event promises an unforgettable festival experience where tradition meets innovation, emerging as a profound cultural experience designed to unite and empower.
Taking place on August 2, 2025, at the scenic Pretoria Botanical Gardens, the Imbawula Music Festival offers a one-of-a-kind cultural showcase, blending sound, storytelling, and social consciousness to unite the past and future of South African music.
Deeply rooted in South African heritage, the festival draws its name from the imbawula, a traditional coal heater known as Mbaula in TshiVenda and Kgotha in Setswana. Used in rural and township homes during the cold winter months, the imbawula provided more than physical warmth. It was a source of connection, where families gathered to share meals, songs, and oral traditions iintsomi, amabali, inganekwane, passed down through generations. Today, Imbawula re-emerges as a powerful cultural symbol, a space to gather, heal, speak, and act.
"Imbawula is about igniting pride, community, and connection through music," says the organising team from AMN Investments and Young Success. "We're creating a space where people can dance, celebrate, and feel at home in their culture, while experiencing something truly world-class."
Music fans can expect an eclectic mix of South Africa's hottest genres: Amapiano, Kwaito, Afro-soul, Hip Hop, Jazz, Afro-tech, and more. Guiding this spectacular journey will be the legendary Somizi Mhlongo as the official MC. Headlining the premiere edition are Afro-house pioneer Sun-El Musician, soulful powerhouse Amanda Black, and Kwaito legends Trompies, delivering a nostalgic edge. Amapiano heavyweight Kelvin Momo will also debut new music exclusively at the festival, promising a fresh sonic journey.
Adding depth to the lineup are standout rising acts like jazz prodigy Saul Madiope. For a cross-border flavor that celebrates pan-African unity, Swazi stars Velemseni and Bholoja will also take the stage, showcasing rich regional diversity.
But Imbawula isn't just about what happens on stage, it's an immersive cultural experience for all the senses. Festivalgoers can explore silent discos, engage in interactive drum circles, and witness captivating live art performances. A vibrant marketplace will feature local food vendors erving up traditional African cuisine and contemporary street food, alongside craft stalls showcasing Gauteng's finest artisans.
Surprise pop-ups and debut performances from boundary-pushing artists like Yung Cyberdj, Charlie TheChap, and Nale Yale promise to keep attendees on their toes. With dedicated zones for families, culture lovers, and nightlife seekers, Imbawula offers something for everyone in a welcoming, inclusive space.
”At its core, Imbawula is driven by social purpose. As South Africa grapples with a national crisis of gender-based violence (GBV), the festival serves as a space for unity, reflection, and action. Through programming that amplifies voices, honours lives lost, and promotes a culture of empathy and respect, Imbawula positions itself as more than a concert; it's a cultural intervention.
“Our country is crying out for healing,” the organisers explain. “We believe music and community can help spark that change.”
Committed to youth empowerment and local economic upliftment, the festival partners with SMEs, youth organisations, and cultural groups to create real opportunities. Sustainability is also key with recycling, eco-conscious operations, and water conservation integrated throughout the event.
With over 100 trained security personnel, first-aid stations, and strict health and safety protocols, attendees can expect a well-organised, secure experience.
Whether you’re drawn by the beats of Amapiano, the warmth of tradition, or the urgency of social justice, Imbawula Music Festival invites all South Africans to gather around the fire once more, to dance, to listen, to heal, and to rise.
To purchase tickets for Imbawula Music Festival, please visit: https://www.howler.co.za/events/imbawula-music-festival-3fda.
