MALKERNS – The countdown to the 2026 Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival has officially begun after organisers unveiled a star-studded two-day line-up featuring award-winning South African rapper Nasty C alongside a diverse mix of local, regional and international talent.
Set for 1 and 2 August at House On Fire in Malkerns, this year’s festival marks a major milestone as Luju expands to a full two-day experience for the first time under the theme “A Return to the African Future.”
Leading the music programme is hip-hop heavyweight Nasty C, whose appearance is expected to draw thousands of fans from across the region. He will share the stage with celebrated South African artists Zola 7, Liquideep, Mantombezane, Mandisi Dyantyis, The Masekela Band, Maleh, Neyma, Judah Soul and Wonderboom.
The line-up also shines a spotlight on Eswatini’s thriving music scene, with performances by Thando Zide, Vandil, Mbambeni, Kyle Shepherd Trio, Mandisa Mamba, DJ Bob, Cece & Rina, Circles & Squares, Katembe Connection, Emagagu, Sanchez IEY, Bathini, Originelle, MK Hlophe and more.
Beyond the music, festivalgoers can look forward to a world-class culinary experience featuring renowned chefs Coco & J, Mmabatho Molefe, Magriza Made Me Cook, Chef Prince, Sivalo Mahlangu and 2025 Standard Bank Luju Farm to Fork MasterChef winner Chef Sivesetfu Bhembe.
Fashion will once again take centre stage, with acclaimed designer Mzukisi Mbane headlining the regional fashion showcase alongside designers from Eswatini, South Africa, Mozambique and Lesotho. Their collections will be inspired by this year’s fashion theme, Kwasukasukela (Once Upon a Time).
Organisers say the expanded two-day programme will offer visitors an even richer experience through live performances, food showcases, fashion exhibitions, entrepreneurship seminars and cultural storytelling.
As one of its biggest line-ups to date and the addition of global hip-hop star Nasty C, the 2026 Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival is shaping up to be one of the biggest lifestyle events on the Southern African calendar, celebrating the very best of African music, food, fashion and creativity.
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