Bongo Maffin Headlines Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts

Legendary South African kwaito and Afro-pop group Bongo Maffin is set to perform at the second edition of the Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts (OMiFa) at Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton from Friday, September 19 to Saturday, September 20.

For Zimbabwe-born member Jah Seed, born Adrian Anesu Mupemhi, headlining the festival is a profound homecoming. He described the moment as “beyond my imagination,” noting the significance of celebrating a musical legend like Oliver Mtukudzi.

Oliver Mtukudzi and Thomas Mapfumo were central to the musical upbringing of Jah Seed, and being invited to honour Tuku is both humbling and inspiring. Jah Seed highlighted the importance of carrying forward the legacy of these iconic figures while connecting with fans across generations.

Bongo Maffin has maintained relevance for over two decades through timeless music and a loyal fan base. Jah Seed explained that their longevity stems from adapting to change while staying true to core messages of love, resistance, self-awareness, and cultural identity. The group focuses on expressing where they come from, where they are, and where they might go, ensuring their music resonates across generations.

Looking ahead, Bongo Maffin will join the Thebe Legend Tour later this month, celebrating another kwaito pioneer. Jah Seed suggested that fans can expect new music soon, noting the group continues to feel inspired and compelled by creativity. “We are not young anymore, but music keeps pulling us to create something new. In the near future, fans can expect one or two tracks, if not an album,” he said.

Jah Seed expressed deep gratitude to fans who have supported the group since the Leaders of D’Gong days. He credited earlier musical influences for inspiring Bongo Maffin’s journey and acknowledged the significance of performing at a festival honouring one of the great artists who shaped his career.

Bongo Maffin’s appearance at OMiFa underscores their enduring influence in African music and offers a celebration of Oliver Mtukudzi’s legacy through a blend of kwaito, Afro-pop, and a message that continues to resonate with fans across the continent.