The consultation follows the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture’s call for the culture and creative industries to organize themselves into structured sector bodies, as part of government’s broader framework recognizing 17 sectors within the cultural and creative industries.

Within this framework, the events and technical services sector have emerged as one of the critical industries supporting the delivery of festivals, exhibitions, conferences, concerts, public celebrations, and cultural programs across South Africa.

The consultation will bring together industry practitioners, sector organizations, venue operators, event organisers, technical production specialists, and institutional representatives from across the country, creating a national platform for engagement on the future of the sector.

Participants will engage in structured dialogue on key issues affecting the industry, including:

• Sector coordination and industry representation
• Capacity building and professional development
• Policy alignment within the creative economy
• Technical infrastructure and event production ecosystems
• Industry sustainability and sector growth opportunities
• Collaboration across the broader cultural and creative industries

The outcomes of the consultation will contribute towards the development of a national consultation report and sector recommendations, capturing the perspectives and proposals of industry stakeholders.

In addition to the consultation discussions, the event will also create space for companies and organisations operating within the events ecosystem to showcase their services, products, and technologies, allowing stakeholders to engage directly with practitioners shaping the industry.

Speaking ahead of the consultation, Board Member of ETASA, highlighted the importance of strengthening coordination within the sector. “Following the Minister’s call for the cultural and creative sectors to organise themselves, this consultation provides an important opportunity for practitioners and stakeholders within the events and technical industry to come together, share experiences, and contribute towards strengthening the sector’s future,” said Mafokate. “The events industry plays a critical role in supporting South Africa’s cultural economy, and this consultation allows the sector to collectively reflect on its challenges, opportunities, and future direction.”

Stakeholders and practitioners interested in participating in the consultation are encouraged to register in advance.

Event Details

Event: National Events and Technical Sector Consultation
Date: Friday, 20th March 2026
Time: 08:30 – 16:00
Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand

Practitioners Registration

Participants can register using the following link: https://forms.gle/bSQ7uY7ZG7A3ywst7

Participation is limited, and organizations are encouraged to nominate representatives to attend the consultation.

Media Accreditation / Registration: Media houses can register using the following link: https://forms.gle/oGbRbYBu4RuiMGqC6

Translated from Xitsonga, Hita Humelela means “we shall be victorious.” The title encapsulates both the message of the song and a defining chapter in Maluleke’s artistic evolution. Recorded live in November before an audience, the single embraces the raw energy of live instrumentation, organic rhythm, and collective celebration, placing authenticity and musicality at the forefront.

Upbeat, rhythmically rich and emotionally stirring, Hita Humelela speaks directly to every listener who hears it. It is an anthem for those navigating life’s uncertainties, a reminder not to give up, and a declaration that victory belongs to those who endure. Through its uplifting melody and powerful delivery, the song affirms that while the journey may be challenging, triumph is not only possible, it is promised.

“This song is about all of us,” says Maluleke. “We all walk through seasons that test us. Hita Humelela reminds us to keep moving, to keep believing, and to trust that victory is already ahead of us.”

The release marks an important moment for Maluleke, who continues to expand his musical expression beyond conventional labels, positioning himself firmly within the broader African contemporary music landscape. While deeply rooted in spirituality and heritage, his sound transcends category, driven by live performance, cultural identity, and storytelling through rhythm.

Hita Humelela is now available on all major digital streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and other leading global services.

The single serves as the first release in a larger body of work to follow later this year, with a second single scheduled for April as momentum builds toward a full album release.

With Hita Humelela, Collen Maluleke invites audiences everywhere to embrace the journey, trust the process, and celebrate the victory that awaits.

From 10–12 February, the festival will host a series of dynamic Masterclasses presented by the John Kani Academy, curated by Penny Morris. These intensive sessions are designed for emerging and established theatre practitioners to deepen their craft in acting, directing and writing.

The Masterclass programme includes:

• Acting Facilitator: John Kani - internationally acclaimed actor, director and playwright whose distinguished career spans stage and screen, and whose influence has shaped South African theatre practice.
• Directing Facilitator: Xabiso Zweni - award‑winning director and creative force whose work is known for its innovation and cultural resonance.
• Writing Facilitator: Zakes Mda - celebrated novelist, playwright and cultural commentator whose storytelling has enriched South African letters.

In addition to masterclasses, the festival will present a two‑day Book Fair on 25 February, bringing together authors, publishers and readers for discussions, book launches and literary engagement. This event builds on Iphulo’s commitment to nurturing a rich ecosystem for arts and ideas.

The cultural programme will culminate on 28 February with the Iphulo Film Festival, showcasing a curated selection of local and international films that reflect diverse narratives, creative excellence and cinematic artistry.

Monde Ngonyama, CEO of the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex, said “The Iphulo Drama Festival is a testament to the power of storytelling in all its forms on stage, on the page and on the screen. Through our masterclasses, book fair and film festival, we are creating spaces where artists can learn, connect and shine. We celebrate our creative heritage and invest in the next generation of cultural leaders.”

The festival invites artists, students, industry practitioners and the public to join this month‑long cultural feast an opportunity to be inspired, challenged and transformed through the performing and literary arts.

For more information and programme updates, visit the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex website or contact the festival office.

Now in its fifth year, The Rise has become a significant Easter tradition that unites communities through worship, reflection, and praise. The Midrand edition will feature Mmuso Worship, while the Seshego gathering will include performances by Manana Ramongae, Mapula Monyepao, and Katleho Seobi. Each event promises a deeply spiritual atmosphere, rooted in authentic traditional gospel music and heartfelt ministry.

These upcoming shows follow the successful live recording by Kgethang Konese on 31 January 2026, marking an important chapter in his musical journey.

As Easter is a season that commemorates sacrifice, renewal, and resurrection, The Rise carries a timely message of hope and restoration. Through song and shared worship, the concerts reflect on the victory of light over darkness and remind audiences that faith has the power to lift individuals and communities beyond their circumstances. It is an invitation to pause, reflect, and rise anew.

Born in Lesotho and relocated to South Africa at a tender age, Kgethang Konese’s story is one of humility, perseverance, and purpose. He grew up in Jouberton, Klerksdorp, where he studied at Mokolokotoane Primary School before completing his matric at Tshedimosetso Secondary School. From these beginnings, he went on to build a remarkable career that spans both ministry and business.

Kgethang is an accomplished entrepreneur and the Group Chief Executive Officer of a Johannesburg-based company with a national footprint. The group operates across events management, project management, learnership management, and labour activation programmes. Over the years, his ventures have created employment for more than 300 full-time employees and have provided over 45,000 opportunities to people across South Africa.

A soft-spoken leader and devoted member of the Roman Catholic Church, Kgethang Konese is widely admired for his deep, distinctive voice and his heartfelt renditions of hymns and choruses that resonate with audiences across generations. His music reaches millions of listeners worldwide who are drawn to his authentic and reverent approach to gospel.

Beyond the stage, Kgethang has played a significant role in positioning Klerksdorp and the City of Matlosana as notable destinations for large-scale events. Among the initiatives he has led are The Rise Easter celebrations, now in their fifth edition, and the Matlosana Mega Fest, both of which have contributed to cultural growth and community cohesion in the region.

An entrepreneur with a sharp eye for opportunity and a deep desire to see others succeed, Kgethang Konese continues to build platforms that inspire faith, create jobs, and uplift communities. His guiding principle remains simple yet profound: work hard, work smart, and trust that God will do the rest.