In South Africa’s evolving energy tapestry, Emalahleni stands at a pivotal juncture. Once the heartbeat of coal mining, the town is undergoing a transformation, which the KwaGuqa International Arts Festival captures in its vibrant storytelling and performances. From 4 to 8 October 2023, attendees are currently enveloped in a diverse selection of acts, ranging from soulful jazz, enthralling poetry, mainstream music, to a laughter-filled comedy night. But beyond the entertainment, the festival serves as a powerful commentary on the country’s shift away from coal towards renewable energy.
Bafana Dladla, the 40-year-old festival organiser, shared the deeper philosophy behind this cultural extravaganza.
“Our festival has grown in recognition from its inaugural edition to its current 7th installment. But more than that, it’s about spotlighting Emalahleni’s transformation as coal mines gradually shut down, making way for more sustainable alternatives,” said Dladla.
The festival is placing a strong emphasis on supporting local businesses, allocating 60% of its platform to highlight their expertise and involvement, rather than just showcasing international acts.
Endorsed by the National Arts Council (NAC), the festival carries a two-fold significance. It not only provides an exceptional showcase for the arts but also promotes the adaptive reuse of retired mine areas.
Embracing the digital age, the festival has swapped traditional flyers to reduce paper use, and opted for eco-friendly pop-up screens for use throughout the event.
“The festival embraces the idea that its narratives should deeply resonate with the pressing matter of climate change,” he said.
Emalahleni, Nguni for place of coal, traces its roots to 1890 when it bore the name Witbank. Achieving city status in 1994, it stands as a significant landmark in Mpumalanga province, which bridges the boundary between South Africa and Mozambique.
“We need to be moving. People are still very resistant because the reality is that those in the coal industry will lose their jobs,” Dladla said.
He imagines a scenario where, when all coal operations come to a halt, every employee is confident in their valuable skill set and stays updated with the ongoing changes.
“Something that is big nationally is so small on the local level,” he added. “This issue of climate change and the Just Transition seems very small because people lack information.”
The festival, set against this historically rich backdrop, offers deep insights into the town’s changing dynamics and the lives of its inhabitants.
“Many tourists use the N4 and N12 to pass our town without even thinking of stopping. We wanted to encourage them to pause on their way to the Kruger National Park and hear the stories of our town,” Dladla said.
Acts like Thee Legacy, Zimbabwe’s Ingoma and The Act of Man, a play that delves into climate change, promise to enchant the anticipated audience.
Dladla envisions a grand future for the festival, hoping to see it rival the stature of the National Arts Festival.
According to Statistics South Africa’s latest Tourism report published in May this year, in 2022, tourists from the United Kingdom (UK) topped the overseas visitor list, followed by the USA and Germany.
Zimbabwe topped the SADC visitor list followed by Mozambique, Lesotho, Eswatini and Botswana.
“The volume of tourist arrivals increased by 152,6% from 2 255 699 tourists in 2021 to 5 698 062 tourists in 2022.”
Dladla and his team maintain the ambitious vision of converting dormant mining spaces into rehabilitated zones suitable for alternative purposes, like agriculture and other economic hubs.
While most events are free, the comedy night on 6th October 2023 carries a tag of R100 and, the festival is designed for all age groups.
Tickets are accessible online via Web tickets or can be obtained at the venue.
In essence, the Kwaguqa International Arts Festival is more than a cultural event. It symbolises Emalahleni’s evolution, shedding light on the town’s past and its hopes for a sustainable, green future. – news@mukurukuru.co.za
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