With only a week and a few days to go, uBuciko Bengoma, a highly anticipated cultural dance concert inspired by the traditional Ingoma festivities, is swiftly approaching. This year, the event will take place at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on October 4.

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Hosted by MMC for Human Settlements Mlungisi Mabaso and Amagoso, the annual Ingoma celebration will feature performances from a diverse group of artists, including from the University of Johannesburg, Tshwane University of Technology, University of Witwatersrand, Amahlubuka, and Madlomo.

For the first time, the concert will unite residents from hostels across Alexandra, Soweto, and Thokoza. Beyond celebrating cultural diversity, the event is intended to foster unity, cultural pride, and social cohesion among them. “We want people to come, enjoy, get along, and participate in the cultural activities,” said event organiser Sithembiso Fihlamakoti Ngubane.

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Although the event is not a competition, Ngubane said each participating group will receive R10 000. He encouraged interested groups from Alexandra hostels to contact their hostel leaders, known as iziNduna, to register.

Additionally, he encouraged those who want to witness the cultural event to attend, noting that the entrance is free and food will be served free of charge. “We want everyone to come and enjoy themselves,” he said. To ensure the safety of attendees, Ngubane said they have implemented strict rules such as prohibiting alcohol, bottles, firearms, or knives at the venue.

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