MANZINI – Media accreditation applications for the 19th edition of the MTN Bushfire Festival, scheduled for May 29 to 31, have officially opened.
MTN Bushfire Communications Manager Phiwo Dlamini invited journalists and media practitioners from around the world to submit their applications. Eligible applicants include journalists, television writers, photographers, videographers, bloggers, stringers, and freelancers affiliated with established and reputable national, regional, or international newspapers, magazines, news agencies, radio stations, television broadcasters, and online publications.
Freelancers and stringers with proven media placement and professional experience are also encouraged to apply, Dlamini said, cautioning that media accreditation spaces are limited and urging interested practitioners to submit early.
The deadline for applications is May 8, after which no further submissions will be accepted for the 2026 festival.
“Due to the high volume of applications received each year, only successful applicants will be contacted,” Dlamini told the Eswatini Observer. “Final media selections will be made at the festival’s discretion.”
Applications must be submitted through the press accreditation page on the MTN Bushfire website. Practitioners are required to first complete an application form issued by the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology before the festival can confirm accreditation.
Accredited media will gain access to official press conferences, the opportunity to request interviews with artists, and front-of-stage access for photography and videography. They will also have access to the on-site Media Village, which serves as the festival’s hub for media information and interviews, equipped with power supply and wireless internet.
Dlamini clarified that accreditation does not include travel or accommodation unless specifically pre-arranged with MTN Bushfire. She advised approved applicants to secure lodging early, noting nearby accommodations fill up quickly during the festival. As an alternative, accredited media can consider purchasing camping or glamping passes offered by the festival.
Recognised as one of Africa’s leading sustainable festivals, MTN Bushfire has earned international acclaim for its environmentally responsible and socially inclusive programming. It received the ‘Best Responsible Event’ award at the 2017 WTM African Responsible Tourism Awards, was named “Top African Festival” by the BBC, and was listed by CNN among the “seven African music festivals you really have to see.”
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