MBABANE – The future of Africa’s creative economy lies in collaboration, innovation and the inclusion of diverse voices.
As the continent continues to strengthen its cultural and creative industries, recognising leaders who have transformed vision into impact is essential. One such leader is Eswatini’s Isidoro Pinto, whose invitation to serve as a panellist at the first edition of the Mercado das Indústrias Culturais e Criativas de Moçambique (MICMZ) marks a significant milestone for his career and Eswatini’s creative sector.
The inaugural MICMZ (Mozambique Cultural and Creative Industries Summit) will take place in Maputo, Mozambique, from July 30 to August 1, 2026. The event brings together artists, creative entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors and cultural institutions to showcase and advance the country’s cultural and creative industries while promoting regional cooperation.
Pinto’s inclusion on the panel reflects years of dedication to developing Eswatini’s entertainment and cultural landscape. As the festival director of the Makoti Festival, he has delivered five editions, with the latest held in May 2026. The festival has become one of Eswatini’s flagship cultural events, celebrating African heritage, music, fashion and entrepreneurship while creating opportunities for artists and creative businesses.
He also serves as the Executive Director of NewLife Entertainment, a company that manages and develops artists and DJs, helping young creatives build sustainable careers in the entertainment industry.
Speaking ahead of the event, Pinto expressed gratitude for the recognition. “I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful to be recognised and included as a panellist at the inaugural Mercado das Indústrias Culturais e Criativas de Moçambique. This invitation is more than a personal achievement; it is recognition of the incredible work being done by creatives in Eswatini. It affirms that our stories, festivals, artists and creative enterprises have a place in shaping Africa’s cultural and creative future,” he said.
Pinto believes platforms such as MICMZ create opportunities for African creatives to learn from one another and build lasting partnerships.
“As Festival Director of the Makoti festival and executive director of NewLife Entertainment, I have always believed that creativity knows no borders. I look forward to sharing our experiences, learning from fellow industry leaders and contributing to conversations that will strengthen Africa’s creative economy. Together, we can create more opportunities for artists, celebrate our cultures and ensure that the next generation of creatives thrives.”
His participation highlights Eswatini’s growing contribution to Africa’s creative economy and demonstrates that excellence is recognised regardless of a country’s size. Pinto’s experience in festival management, artist development and creative entrepreneurship offers valuable insights for industry leaders seeking sustainable growth.
His inclusion also strengthens cultural ties between Eswatini and Mozambique, reinforcing the importance of regional cooperation in expanding markets, promoting artistic exchange and creating new opportunities for creatives across Southern Africa.
As MICMZ hosts its first edition, it sets a benchmark for future creative industry forums by embracing leaders from across the region. By inviting voices such as Pinto’s, the organisers demonstrate that Africa’s creative industries flourish when knowledge, experience and opportunity are shared across borders.
