MBABANE – The official opening of the 58th Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) at the Mavuso Trade Centre Sports Ground transformed into a vibrant celebration of music and culture.
Anchored by high-octane performances from South African stars Mduduzi Ncube and Simmy, alongside a strong line-up of local talent, the EITF official opening gave attendees one of their best experiences.
Mduduzi Ncube set the tone early, stepping onto the stage at 11:30am with an infectious burst of energy. Sprinting from corner to corner of the stands, he immediately pulled the audience into his orbit. Seizing the microphone, he launched into fan favourites such as ‘Ngeke Ngimyeke’ and ‘Isigici’, turning the venue into a massive chorus line. Following the entry of His Majesty King Mswati III and the Queen Mother, he was asked to perform before Their Majesties. He performed some of his hits, including ‘Dear Ex Yami’, as the crowd roared back the lyrics, echoing the emotional hook, ‘Finally Ngi Happy’, while raising their hands in excitement.
Marking a recurring bond with the nation, Ncube declared during his set that “Eswatini is now home”, reflecting his frequent and warmly received visits. In a subsequent interview, the star expressed excitement at performing before the King, while reiterating his appreciation for the crowd’s unwavering support. True to his reputation for intimacy, Ncube breached the barrier between artist and audience, stepping directly into the stands to let fans touch him, capture videos and pose for pictures during his performance.
Mduduzi Ncube is an award-winning South African Afro-pop and Afro-soul singer and songwriter, known for his high-energy stage presence and deeply relatable storytelling centred around relationships and personal growth. Ncube rose to widespread national prominence as the first artist signed to Big Zulu’s record label, Inkabi Records.
Simmy followed with a masterclass in vocal poise and striking stage presence, bringing effortless style to the EITF opening. Performing hits including ‘Ubala’, featuring Sun-El Musician, and ‘Ngiyesaba’, she mesmerised the audience. Simmy navigated the stands in high-heeled boots and noted mid-performance that she had not been warned she would be performing in a stadium. Ditching convention for comfort, she kicked off her heels and finished the set barefoot, keeping the momentum high. Like Ncube, she later voiced her elation over the country’s vibrant energy and the affectionate reception she received while mingling closely with fans for photos and video clips.
Simmy is a prominent South African singer, songwriter and composer known for her distinct blend of neo-soul, neo-folk, electronic and Afro-house music. Gospel heavyweight Linda Dlamini delivered a stellar, spiritually charged performance, igniting the grounds with gospel dances such as ‘iThomoyi’ and ‘Chwechwe’.
Backed by the robust Tende sound, Dlamini’s precise blend of signature dance moves and sing-along anthems struck a resonant chord with attendees. The line-up further amplified national pride with electrifying sets from M Nation alongside Histo, while Young Zesh seized a major career moment by performing directly in front of Their Majesties, cementing an unforgettable day of music.
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