The Ga-Mphahlele region in Limpopo turned into a vibrant hub of sound and tradition as it hosted the Manyalo Mathomo-thomong Festival. This landmark event featured the traditional Sepedi music genre, which captivated attendees. Funded by the National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) under the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP), the project was driven by a mission to protect, modernise, and decentralise indigenous art while driving local socio-economic empowerment.
The event seamlessly wove the rich, intergenerational threads of local culture with the pulse of modern production through high-energy live performances and intimate storytelling circles. By partnering with local vendors, technicians, and hospitality businesses, the festival proved that celebrating heritage is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for community upliftment and real job creation. Manyalo was championed as a living, breathing, and evolving movement ready to command both national and global stages.
This initiative did not only preserve history but actively shaped the future by embedding sustainable infrastructure into the cultural fabric. By investing heavily in the next generation of creative talent, the project opened doors through targeted mentorship. Furthermore, it empowered women into cultural leadership, ensuring their voices directed both the performance and the policy of the art form.
If you would like to support, feel free to reach out to Manyalo Mathomo-thomong via email at: pleasurepeta@gmail.com
