The MEC for Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation Leah Mabuza
By Samkelisiwe Mhlanga
The Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience (MPCE) is back and marking a triumphant decade of celebration.
The eagerly anticipated event was officially declared open by the MEC for the Mpumalanga Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation, Leah Mabuza, during a media launch held today, October 7, at Ndalo Lodge in Mbombela.
This year’s theme for the 2025 MPCE is ‘Sunrise to Sunset’, a powerful symbol that signifies the closure of the festival’s first decade and the dawning of another era of success for the arts and creative industry in the province.
Mabuza highlighted the significance of this year’s milestone, stating, “This year’s celebration is not just another series of festivals and cultural and entertainment events on our cultural calendar it is a celebration of decade-long effort, a testament to the long-term vision by the department to develop the arts and creative industry in our province.”
The MPCE has been a phenomenal success since its inception in 2015, growing into one of Mpumalanga’s signature events.
It has served as a unifying platform where music, comedy, tradition, sport, and culture converge to celebrate the unique heritage of the people.
The MEC emphasised that the MPCE is a vital opportunity to showcase the province’s ability to host successful, large-scale events that directly create opportunities for the art industry and highlight Mpumalanga’s rich, diverse cultural heritage.
To commemorate this significant milestone, the department has produced a documentary that chronicles the MPCE’s incredible journey over the past 10 years. Mabuza confirmed that the documentary which pays tribute to everyone who contributed to the festival’s success will premiere on the department’s YouTube channel, DCSRTV, on October 31, 2025.
The 2025 MPCE schedule is filled with diverse events that will take place across various districts in Mpumalanga. Highlights include:
- Kasi Xperience in Embalenhle
- Comedy Xperience in Mbombela
- Carnival Xperience at the Promenade Centre in Mbombela
- Choral Xperience in Elukwatini, Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality
- 013 Summer Blaze at Mbombela Stadium
- Soul Session Xperience at the Lowveld Botanical Gardens
- Marathon Xperience at Kameelrevier B Stadium, Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality
- Traditional Xperience at Ndundza Somphalali Traditional Authority
- Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards at Communio Church Auditorium
Mabuza extended a warm invitation to the public, concluding with a call to action: “I call on the people of Mpumalanga, visitors from across South Africa, and international tourists to join us in celebrating this milestone year.”
She encouraged everyone to use the Cultural Xperience to promote the province, support local artists and entrepreneurs, and share the “warmth and hospitality that has come to be synonymous with Mpumalanga.”
The 10th anniversary of the Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience promises to be a spectacular celebration, cementing its legacy as a key driver of arts, culture, and economic development in the province.
