EAST LONDON- The 6th annual Afrika Unite Cultural International Festival(AUCIF) concluded on a high note, attracting thousands of music enthusiasts and cultural fans to the Jan Smuts Stadium in East London on 15th December 2024. The event featured an impressive lineup of South Africa’s top artists, cementing its reputation as a premier cultural showcase.
Behind the scenes organizers faced a number of logistical challenges that threatened to derail the event, strong winds damaged the marquee, forcing authorities to temporarily close the site, while a misunderstanding with law enforcement led to an earlier-than-expected closing time.
Despite these challenges, the festival’s lineup of talented artists shone through, with performances by Dumza Maswana, Ikhona, MXO and Nkosazana Daughter wowing the crowd to name few. Lloyiso a crowd favorite, mesmerized the audience with his iconic songs, while newcomer Bulumko Ndandane impressed with his unique sound.
Lloyiso expressed his gratitude stating that, “The energy of the crowd was incredible. They made my performance truly worthwhile.”
In addition the real stars of the show were the festival’s organizers, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the event went ahead despite the logistical challenges.
Founder of AUCIF Luzuko Khohli said, “We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the delay and the earlier-than-expected closing time but we were determined to make the festival a success no matter what challenges we faced.”
Furthermore Khohli praised the festival’s team of volunteers and staff who worked tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly, “We couldn’t have done it without them, they were the real heroes of the festival.”
Furthermore communications manager at Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency(ECPTA)Oyanga Ngalika said the festival was an important part of the agency’s strategy to promote tourism in the province. “We’re delighted to have supported the AUCIF, which has once again shown itself to be a major drawcard for visitors to our province. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the festival organizers in the years to come.”
According to Communications Manager at Eastern Cape Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture(ECDSRAC), Andile Nduna, the festival achieved its goal of bringing together people from different ethnic groups. “The festival is a shining example of our department’s commitment to artist development and social cohesion, by providing a platform for artists to showcase their talents, we are promoting cross-cultural understanding and exchange.” Nduna said.
The AUCIF may have faced logistical challenges but in the end it was a triumph. It showed that with determination and hard work anything is possible and it left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Photograph: AUICF attendees & Lloyiso performing live
Photographs: supplied
