‘Bring your fire’ the saying goes – and they mean it. Vuyi and I travelled to the MTN Bushfire festival in Swaziland last year to witness the burning ourselves.
Swaziland’s MTN Bushfire festival is something special. Swaziland is a beautiful, proud country. It’s different, and diverse. And although it also has a reputation for keeping a tight grip on self-expression, Bushfire flies its freedom flag defiantly. You’ll see every type of person under the sun – black and white, foreign and local, children and adults – all smiling, dancing, talking, drinking, eating and just plain enjoying together.
It’s a festival like no other.
There are people crying. Others are chanting and clapping and everyone – everyone – is dancing. Bantu Continua Uhuru Consciousness (BCUC) are moving my spirit. I close my eyes and let the music and lyrics move me. – Vuyi Qubeka
This year the festival promises to be just as good, if not better, than last year. Be sure to head over to the Bushfire website, for more information on the line-up and to book your ticket.
Read Vuyi’s full story in the April 2016 issue of Getaway magazine
And also read: Why you can’t miss Bushfire festival this year
Swaziland Bushfire 2015.
Love and light all around.
Kids are welcome here. There’s a dedicated play zone and this year (2016) there will be an African Storytelling hut.
Evening at Swaziland Bushfire 2015.
The view of the main stage at night.
LEFT: Les Nubians | RIGHT: Freshlyground.
Joy, smiles and dance.
House on Fire Amphitheatre, with its colourful fantasy-scape.
The Amphitheatre.
Portraits from the festival. On the right, Vuyi’s friend, Craig, wearing headphones from the silent gig by Tonik and friends.
Kahn from the Parlotones and The Soil.
BCUC never fail to rouse your spirit and send goosebumps across your flesh.
Sunset over the crowds.
Also read: The best music festivals in Africa
Read the full story in the April 2016 issue of Getaway magazine.
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