A large crowd gathered at the Hlahla Song Festival in Shale village under Chief Mthimude in Port Shepstone over the Easter weekend.
Dust rose into the air as singing echoed across the area, with various groups performing energetic dances that kept the audience captivated and reluctant to leave.
According to Ray Nkonyeni Deputy Mayor, Councillor Sibusiso Shange, this year’s festival saw a significant increase in participation, with groups from neighbouring tribes also in attendance.
“It is indescribable what we witnessed at this year’s song festival, as about 3,000 people attended. The standard continues to rise, with people from the Cele, Machi and Nyuswa tribes arriving alongside their chiefs. Attendees enjoyed food and refreshments, and two cows were slaughtered for the occasion. This brings me great joy, as I initiated this programme when I took office in 2022,” said Shange.
He added that while competitive elements are part of the festival, there have been suggestions to introduce structured measures to prevent disputes that can arise when money is involved.
“What is important for us as community leaders is to see our people living together in harmony and building relationships that uplift the community. The talent displayed by young men and women in this traditional song is remarkable and inspiring,” concluded Shange.
