By Siphesihle Dlamini
Eswatini’s premiere comedy collective, Gogo Eswatini and S’lwane is ready to ring in the new year with a spectacle that promises to be both hilarious and heartfelt.
With the resounding success of their 2024 events still fresh in the minds of fans, they are set to launch 2025 with an extraordinary evening that is as much about love as it is about laughter.
On Valentine’s Day, lovers and laughter-seekers alike will gather at one of the Kingdom’s most picturesque venues—the Mantenga Cultural Village Arena—for The Love and Laughter Fest, an event that is one of the most anticipated nights on Eswatini’s comedy calendar.
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The festival is a celebration of not only romance and humour but also the deep cultural beauty that defines Eswatini.
Hosted in the serene and scenic Mantenga Cultural Village, the event will provide a backdrop that is both spiritually and visually enriching, combining stunning views with an evening of side-splitting comedy.
The laughter-filled festivities will showcase the creativity and talent that have propelled Gogo Eswatini and S’lwane to the forefront of the Kingdom’s entertainment scene, as well as introduce the nation’s finest comedians and performers to a wider audience.
“This event is our way of announcing to the world that after a well-deserved break, we are back—rejuvenated, refreshed, and ready to bring you a night of top-tier comedy and unforgettable moments,” said S’lwane, one of the co-founders of the collective.
“We’ve crafted this festival to be a vibrant, multi-sensory experience for everyone who comes through. As always, we are not alone. We’ve got some of Eswatini’s finest comedy talent joining us this year, including the incomparable Mdura, the hilarious Ndosh, and a host of others.”
The Love and Laughter Fest isn’t just about the jokes—it’s about embracing everything that makes Eswatini unique.
As the Kingdom’s tourism industry grows, cultural events like these are crucial in highlighting the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
The Mantenga Cultural Village, renowned for its immersive cultural talks, captivating tours, and breathtaking waterfall views, provides the perfect setting for an event that is as much about experiencing Eswatini’s serene landscapes as it is about enjoying world-class entertainment.
“We wanted to create something that engages all the senses,” S’lwane continued. “The laughter will be the highlight of the night, but we’ve designed the event to offer so much more.
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We’ve taken inspiration from the healing sounds of the Mantenga waterfalls, allowing people to soak in the calm and tranquillity before the comedy kicks off. It’s a great way to clear your mind, refresh your spirit, and get ready for a night of fun.”
The combination of cultural immersion and high-energy comedy is part of the collective’s ongoing mission to innovate the Eswatini entertainment scene.
Each year, Gogo Eswatini and S’lwane push the boundaries of what local comedy can offer, to expand Eswatini’s influence on the global stage.
Their dedication to local collaboration and empowering homegrown talent is evident in this year’s impressive lineup.
What sets The Love and Laughter Fest apart from other events is the incredible diversity of talent it brings together.
For 2025, the comedy collective has invited a powerhouse of Eswatini’s funniest and most influential comedians to share the stage, ensuring that the night is packed with different comedic styles, sharp wit, and plenty of surprises.
“We are thrilled to have some of the most exciting names in Eswatini comedy with us this year,” said Gogo, another key member of the collective.
“The talent we’ve brought together represents the very best of what Eswatini has to offer. From stand-up legends like Mdura, Ndosh, and Dr. Shakes, to the incredible wordsmiths, Festival B and Christian Maz, there is something for everyone.”
In addition to the local comedic talent, the festival will also feature a special international guest, Mpumalanga’s finest ventriloquist, Shaun Monkeyman.
This performer, who is gaining rapid recognition across South Africa, promises to add a unique touch to the evening with his entertaining and skillful act that unforgettably blends humour and puppetry.
The evening will also feature the hilarious Hembe, a favourite from the collective’s skits. Known for his effortlessly funny performances and quick-witted humour, Hembe’s return to the stage is sure to delight fans old and new.
One of the central themes of this year’s festival is the celebration of local talent, with a particular focus on collaboration and empowerment.
Gogo Eswatini and S’lwane have always been strong advocates for supporting Eswatini’s creative industries and helping artists reach their full potential.
“With everything said, it is only fair and right that we invite every lover of high-end comedy and a good time to buy their tickets and join us for what will be once again, a very memorable night delivered by the Talent Faktory Gang.
Tickets are limited and available at www.smartticket.co.za and Sdeez, Manzini and Mozambik, Mbabane.”, commented Gogo in closing.
