EMALAHLENI — The return of the Mpumalanga Kota Festival to eMalahleni is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, with organisers projecting increased foot traffic, business opportunities and support for township entrepreneurs.
The festival, set to take place at Puma Stadium on 2 May 2026, is expected to attract more than 4,500 attendees, marking a 50% increase from the over 3,000 people who attended in 2025.
Positioned as one of the fastest-growing township food lifestyle events in South Africa, the festival is expanding its footprint, with more vendors, partnerships and commercial opportunities for small businesses.
This year’s edition will feature more than 45 Kota vendors, creating a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products, generate income and grow their brands.
The expansion is expected to drive economic activity through direct sales, job creation and increased demand for local services linked to the event, including transport, security and event logistics.
The festival also highlights the growing role of township economies in driving inclusive economic growth, particularly through food innovation and youth-led enterprises.
New partner Capitec Bank has joined the event, focusing on supporting township entrepreneurs with tools and insights around digital payments, smart money management, accessible banking and business growth strategies.
Meanwhile, returning partner Albany Bakeries continues its Kota Initiative, aimed at empowering vendors through training, operational support and long-term business development.
The involvement of corporate partners is expected to strengthen the sustainability of small businesses participating in the festival, helping them formalise operations and expand beyond informal trading.
Organisers say the event goes beyond food, positioning itself as a platform for economic participation and cultural expression.
“Get ready, Witbank! The streets are calling, the flavours are louder, and the vibes are unstoppable as the Mpumalanga Kota Festival makes its highly anticipated return —this time taking over Puma Stadium in eMalahleni for a full-day celebration of food, culture, and township creativity.”
The festival will run from 10:00 to 22:00, offering a full-day programme that combines food, entertainment and cultural experiences, further increasing spending opportunities across the value chain.
With ticket prices ranging from R80 to R800, organisers are also targeting a broad consumer base, from families to premium attendees, which is expected to drive varied spending patterns within the local economy.
“After drawing over 3,000 attendees in 2025, this year’s edition is set to grow by 50%,with an expected crowd of 4,500+ food lovers.”
The growth trajectory of the festival signals increasing demand for township-based events, which are emerging as important economic drivers in local communities.
Beyond immediate revenue, the festival is expected to contribute to long-term economic development by building networks between entrepreneurs, investors and consumers.
As the event continues to grow, it is positioning eMalahleni as a destination for food tourism and township lifestyle experiences, with potential spillover benefits for local businesses and the broader hospitality sector.
