Award-winning songbird Makhadzi and the organisers of the Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival have smoked a peace pipe, as she has been included in this year’s line-up of artists set to perform at the event.
As usual, the event will be held at Nandoni Dam in Venda on Saturday, September 13.
Makhadzi is among the star-studded and blockbuster line-up of over 40 artists scheduled to strut their stuff at the annual carnival.
Makhadzi’s inclusion marks a highly anticipated comeback following a dramatic fallout with the organisers over the exorbitant amount she demanded last year. Her absence from the festival dominated headlines.
This was after a public dispute with the event’s organisers, Royal Gardens. The Limpopo-born star, fresh off her BET Award win for Best New International Act, revealed that negotiations broke down over her performance fee.
Royal Gardens had offered Makhadzi R150 000, while she requested R200 000, citing her rising global profile and production costs. The organisers, led by promoter Mulalo Madiba, refused to budge and stated they were focusing on a diverse line-up, which included 26 artists like Pleasure Tsa Manyalo, Dr Joe Shirimani, and Candy Tsamandebele.
Makhadzi hosted three rival shows on the same day as the 2024 festival on September 12, across Venda.
These events featured heavy-weights such as Master KG, Kharishma and Makhadzi’s dancers, but drew small crowds and did little to steal the festival’s thunder.
Sources close to the event suggest that organisers prioritised smoother negotiations this year to avoid another PR storm.
“Makhadzi is a daughter of Limpopo, and her energy is unmatched. We’re thrilled to have her back,” said festival spokesperson Divhambele Mbalavhali.
Known for show-stopping performances like her iconic 2023 entrance, where she “flew” over the crowd, Makhadzi is expected to deliver a set that blends hits like Mbofholowo and Ghanama with her signature high-energy choreography.
Joining her are reggae legend Colbert Mukwevho, a festival veteran with nine appearances, alongside stars such as Benny Mayengani, Leonard Zhakata and DJ Maphorisa. The festival kicks off with a gospel showcase on Friday, September 12, at Agape City in
Vuwani, before the main event on Saturday at Nandoni Dam.
Beyond the music, the Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival is a vibrant celebration of Limpopo’s cultural richness. Attendees can expect traditional food vendors, fashion stalls, and family-friendly activities, all set against the scenic Nandoni Dam.
“This festival is about unity, heritage, and joy,” Mbalavhali added. “It’s a platform to showcase the soul of our province and the greater South Africa.”
