MEC Leah Mabuza
The Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience is positioning culture as a driver of economic development, tourism and job creation as the festival prepares to celebrate its 11th edition under the theme “Reawakening the Xperience”.
Speaking at the launch at Emnotweni Arena in Mbombela on Tuesday, October 13, MEC for Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation Leah Mabuza said the festival had grown into one of the province’s signature cultural events since its establishment in 2015.
“Eleven years is not merely a number. To us, the number 11 represents a journey of consistency, growth, creativity and a continued commitment to placing culture at the centre of our provincial identity,” said Mabuza.
She described the festival as a celebration of Mpumalanga’s heritage and diversity, bringing together communities through music, dance, fashion, food and traditional expressions.
“The Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience is more than a festival. It is a celebration of who we are, where we come from and the cultural heritage that connects us as a people beyond provincial and national boundaries,” she said.
Culture as an economic driver
Mabuza said the event was intended to stimulate economic activity across the tourism and creative industries, benefiting artists, event organisers, transport operators, accommodation establishments, restaurants and small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
She said the festival formed part of the government’s broader objective of reimagining culture as an economic driver and a source of sustainable livelihoods.
Mpumalanga’s cultural heritage, combined with its natural attractions, also offered opportunities to strengthen tourism by encouraging visitors to experience local traditions, music, cuisine and hospitality.
Creating opportunities for young artists
Mabuza emphasised the importance of providing young people with platforms to develop their creative potential and pursue careers in the cultural and creative industries.
“Our young artists need platforms where they can demonstrate their creative potential,” she said.
Phumla Music and Mlingani Soul Child were cited as artists who had developed through the programme.
The festival also aims to preserve cultural identity while embracing contemporary artistic expression and promoting social cohesion across communities.
2026 programme
The programme will run from November to December, featuring creative music workshops, comedy, a carnival, choral music, the 013 Summer Blaze, soul sessions, traditional performances, sport and recreation, and gospel awards.
Events will take place across the Ehlanzeni, Gert Sibande and Nkangala districts, extending the festival beyond Mbombela.
Mabuza encouraged residents and visitors to support local artists and cultural practitioners.
“Let us make the Cultural Xperience a platform where talent from Mpumalanga receives the recognition and support it deserves,” she said.
As the festival enters its 11th year, the provincial government hopes to strengthen cultural identity while expanding opportunities for tourism, enterprise development and sustainable livelihoods through continued collaboration between government, communities, artists and businesses.
