Siphelele Nketo
AS a way of upholding the legacy of the late traditional music broadcaster Saba Mbixane, a Maskandi festival will be hosted in his hometown of KwaBhaca (Mount Frere) on December 12, scheduled to deliver traditional music as well as fashion, visual arts and crafts.
This year’s Saba Mbixane Maskandi Music Festival will further present opportunities for local talent, create a platform for emerging artists, strengthen cultural participation and also stimulate opportunities within the creative economy. Mbixane was a legendary radio DJ at Umhlobo Wenene FM. He passed away in 2015. During his tenure on radio, he championed social cohesion and heritage, and promoted traditional music and culture through his work. The event, organised by the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture in partnership with Alfred Nzo District Municipality, Umzimvubu Local Municipality and other strategic stakeholders, has been scheduled to celebrate rich musical traditions, cultural expressions and artistic heritage that continue to define the identity of the KwaBhaca community.
“Maskandi music is more than entertainment. It is a living archive of our history, a vehicle for storytelling, a reflection of our lived experiences and an important expression of indigenous knowledge, identity and belonging,” said event organisers. Last year’s event was held on December 13 and gave traditional dancers an opportunity to showcase their talents.
