South Africa will unite in rhythm and pride as the first-ever Nkalakatha Festival takes over Nasrec Expo Centre on 20 December 2025.
Inspired by Mandoza’s iconic anthem “Nkalakatha,” the festival celebrates a song that transcended time and culture, uniting the nation through music, movement, and meaning.
Scheduled to take place on Saturday, the 20th of December 2025 at the Nasrec Expo Centre, Johannesburg, it is not a day to be missed for all music lovers, especially the late Mandoza’s and Kwaito fans. A course aimed at empowering and educating South African youth.
A portion of the proceeds will go towards the Nkalakatha Bursary Fund, empowering young South Africans through education and opportunity. The festival is due to start at 4h00 until 02 am with the banging line up which promises to keep the attendants on their feet for the whole Festival experience.
“Nkalakatha Fest isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about celebrating who we are as South Africans, resilient, powerful, and united,” say the festival organisers. The festival will feature a multi-genre lineup across Kwaito, Gqom, Amapiano, Rock, and Gospel, with special tribute performances honouring Mandoza’s legacy.
At the heart of the event is the Nkalakatha Village, an immersive space filled with South African cuisine, art, storytelling, exclusive merchandise, and interactive brand experiences. The Festival marks the beginning of an annual movement, one that merges music, culture, and social impact under the spirit of unity.
Come dance, sing along, and celebrate the legend who brought South Africans together with his music and fought apartheid to bring unity.
Today, the song Nkalakatha still marks the unity of South Africans and has since been labeled the ‘National Anthem’ by many, as it is sung at celebration events, including soccer, rugby, and other events that show unity as South Africans.
Cece Smith 