DUTYWA– The town of Dutywa is set to come alive with cultural pride and community spirit later this month as Mbhashe Local Municipality rolls out a series of vibrant events to mark Heritage and Tourism Month.
Dubbed the Ilifa loMbhashe Festival and Flea Market, the celebrations will spotlight local talent, natural beauty and economic opportunity.
The festival officially kicks off on 20 September 2025 with a scenic Fun Walk and Hike through the picturesque landscapes surrounding the Mbhashe River. The route, which begins and ends near the N2 bridge, will take participants through the Nywara Administrative Area and Candu Administrative Area, offering an invigorating 15km journey through the lush countryside.
Later that day, the heart of Dutywa will beat louder with the sounds of the Ilifa LoMbhashe Music Festival and Flea Market. With a line-up featuring nationally, regionally and locally celebrated artists, the event promises to be a highlight of the Heritage Month calendar.
In addition to the music, the flea market will shine a spotlight on local small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), with exclusive rights to food and drink sales, ensuring that all economic benefits stay within the community.
Municipal Spokesperson Babalwa Magqwanti had this to say, “This event is about more than entertainment. We’ve exercised fairness in selecting our performers all except one are from within our municipality. Our choices were guided by brand value, past performance, audience reception and overall popularity to ensure they draw the crowds that will support our local businesses.”
The festivities continue on 23 September 2025 with Arbor Day celebrations in Ward 2, Dutywa. The day will focus on environmental awareness, featuring tree planting, clean-up drives and educational sessions aimed at promoting sustainability and instilling environmental consciousness in the community.
Mbhashe Local Municipality is calling on residents and visitors alike to join in the celebrations and support the local talent and entrepreneurs who embody the spirit of the region.
“These events are a showcase of who we are a community rich in culture, united in purpose and committed to sustainable growth,” said Magqwanti.
Ilifa loMbhashe Festival serves not only as a celebration of heritage and tourism but as a catalyst for economic development and community pride in the Eastern Cape.
Photographs: Mbhashe Local Municipality/ Supplied
