Star-studded Soweto Kota Festival to hit Dobsonville

The eighth Blue Ribbon Soweto Kota Festival will return with a star-studded lineup.

The much-loved festival is returning to its roots this year, with organisers promising a bigger, better and more family-friendly experience.

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The rugby grounds next to the Dobsonville Stadium will host the three-time award-winning event on the weekend of September 6 and 7.

After relocating to Fun Valley last year, the festival returns to the heart of Soweto by popular demand.

Sidwell Tshingilane is the founder of the Soweto Kota Festival.

Festival founder Sidwel Ntshingilane confirmed that community feedback and a desire to return the celebration to its original spirit informed the decision.

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“We listened to the people and brought the event back to Soweto. We are not anticipating any issues this year because we are moving to a bigger venue in Dobsonville. It’s going to be fun for the whole family,” said Ntshingilane.

Blue Ribbon is also back as the festival’s headline sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to supporting township-based initiatives.

Stock image: Supporters will be spoiled for choice at the Dobsi Soweto Kota Festival.

Janelle Bosman, representing Blue Ribbon, described the festival as vital for empowering local entrepreneurs.

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“We are happy to be part of this phenomenal event, which is all about community, the upliftment of local businesses and the Soweto culture,” said Bosman.

“This festival holds a special place in our hearts.”

The event has more sponsorship support this year, and for the first time, there will be a kiddies’ area, which Aldor Africa will sponsor.

This addition underscores the festival’s growing reputation as a family-friendly celebration.

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“This is a first for the festival, and we encourage families to come and have fun together, knowing that the little ones will be taken care of and entertained,” said Ntshingilane.

Stock image: Various katas were displayed at the seventh annual Soweto Kota Festival.

Returning to the festivities is the charismatic Bongani Drama, who has served as programme director since the festival’s inception. His energy is a crowd favourite and adds to the festival’s identity.

The entertainment lineup features some of Mzansi’s top performers, including Naledi Aphiwe, Rethabile Khumalo, Zee Nxumalo, DJ Young and Mlindo the Vocalist, ensuring non-stop music and dancing across both days.

Beyond just food, the festival is a cultural experience, a celebration of kasi street cuisine, local entrepreneurship and Soweto’s rich heritage.

The timing of the festival in September, Heritage Month, adds more meaning to the occasion.

Organisers expect thousands of attendees and urge residents from across Johannesburg and beyond to join the festivities.