Matsapha – The third Eswatini Arts Summit began yesterday at the Institute of Development and Management (IDM), bringing together local and regional artists to discuss monetisation strategies and career opportunities in the music industry.
Vusi Leeuw, President of the South African Music Industry Council, spoke to attendees about turning artistic talent into sustainable careers. With more than 20 years in the industry, Leeuw is known for discovering prominent African artists and guiding their entry into international markets.
“Music is a business and your approach as an artist must be a business approach,” Leeuw told participants. He shared his experience working with Mandoza, noting, “When I started working with Mandoza, we had a three-year plan to break into the market, and that discipline made a difference.” He also discussed the importance of contracts and policies to protect artists’ work. “If artists overlook these things while chasing fame, they risk losing the value of their work,” he said.
The three-day summit, organised under the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture programme, aims to strengthen the creative economy and runs until tomorrow. Sessions cover publishing rights, licensing, and digital distribution channels to help musicians reach global audiences.
Participants were also encouraged to embrace technology in creative work. Sinamandla Kwepile, Director of the MOSHITO Music Conference and Exhibition, urged artists to use artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and creativity. “Artists must not be scared to use AI: it is here to help us and we must make good use of it,” she said. Kwepile explained that AI can generate new ideas, automate repetitive tasks, and allow artists to experiment with styles and mediums they have not explored before.
Hapkoo, real name Temangcamane Prudence Maseko, a 25-year-old afro-soul and trap artist from Mbekelweni and winner of MTN Bushfire Firefly 2025, was recognised for her dedication and stage presence. Leeuw said, “She is a good performer who shows that she is dedicated to her craft.” He also noted her style, adding, “I also applaud her outfit; it has the potential to take her abroad,” suggesting her artistry is ready for international stages.
Hapkoo expressed excitement at being acknowledged by an industry veteran outside Eswatini. “I am ecstatic that someone beyond Eswatini can recognise my craft and style of music,” she said. She described the recognition as motivating and said it reinforces her belief that local talent can compete internationally.
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