eSwatini: MTN Bushfire scores $255k boost from network provider

The sponsorship was officially announced during the launch of the 2025 festival, which this year will be held under the theme Unity, Creativity and Sustainability.

Speaking at the launch, prime minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini underscored the festival’s role in boosting tourism and contributing to eSwatini’s creative economy. “In its 18 years of existence, the Bushfire festival has solidified its stature as a beacon of global recognition through its unwavering commitment to sustainability. This aligns closely with the vision and priorities of our nation,” he said.

The prime minister also lauded the festival for setting a benchmark in environmental and social responsibility. “It has highlighted the importance of celebrating the arts while demonstrating a clear and compelling commitment to responsible event hosting,” he added.

MTN eSwatini CEO, Wandile Mtshali, said: “This partnership symbolises our shared commitment to connecting people, not just digitally, but through causes that matter. It reflects our mission of empowering people to stay connected with their communities while making a meaningful difference.”

MTN Bushfire Firefly top 10 finalists unveiled

As anticipation builds for this year’s edition, organisers also unveiled the top 10 finalists for the MTN Bushfire Firefly competition. They are Ace Julz, Nelly Noll, Quekey, eMStar Teaniba, Hapkoo, Celumusa, Hailey, K Darrow, Wess June Ten, N Kay, and Smally.

MTN Bushfire Firefly director Penny Bauer spoke about enhancements made to the competition.

“We’re incredibly proud of the strides eSwatini’s artists are making,” she said. “This year, we were especially impressed with the quality of music submissions and electronic press kits,”

Bauer added that the top 20 artists have been given the opportunity to feature their music on MTN CallerTunez, and will also benefit from a copyright onboarding initiative.

She said that the additional exposure is expected to increase the visibility of these up-and-coming artists and provide a meaningful step forward in their musical journeys.