By Selloane Ntshonyane
- The three-day street party starts on Friday in Mofolo Village with a focus on local food, music and bringing neighbours together.
- Joburg Tourism is backing the event to help small businesses grow beyond the usual tourist spots like Vilakazi Street.
Soweto is ready to welcome the world home.
The 11th edition of the Makhelwane Festival kicks off on Friday, turning the township’s streets into a massive celebration of culture and community.
From 12 to 14 December, the “Welcome Home” theme will take over Poka Street in Mofolo.
Organisers say the event is about more than just having a good time. It is a movement to bring people closer through simple acts like a handshake or sharing a meal.
The festival promises a bit of everything.
Visitors can expect live music, gourmet street food, fashion stalls and a special area to keep the children entertained.
Joburg Tourism is throwing its weight behind the event to prove there is more to Soweto than just Vilakazi Street.
Board chair Nandipha Zonela says the festival is opening up new areas like Mofolo to tourism.
“The footprint includes Mofolo, where visitors will get curated experiences that show off the area’s rich culture,” she said.
Local businesses are set to score big.
The Makhelwane Market will feature small businesses (SMMEs) selling crafts and homeware. Joburg Tourism is sponsoring 20 of these traders to help them grow.
There is also good news for the youth, with 20 young people hired as volunteers for the weekend.
Over 3,500 people are expected to flood the streets for the three-day party.
It all begins with a Gauteng Showcase Tour before the official opening at Thesis Lifestyle in Mofolo Village.
Pictured above: The event poster.
Image source: Supplied
