Umuthi Fest welcomes Kwesta’s “Spirit”
By Siphesihle Dlamini
The excitement surrounding the second edition of Umuthi Fest continues to build as South African-born rapper has been officially added to the festival’s lineup.
Scheduled for October 18, 2025, at Mavuso Trade Centre, Umuthi Fest is set to be an electrifying event. Kwesta’s inclusion alongside renowned acts such as the popular South African duo Blaq Diamond, the soulful Mlindo The Vocalist, Mawelele, Lwah Ndlunkulu and the talented Naledi Aphiwe significantly elevates the festival’s appeal.
Ticket sales have been robust, reflecting the growing anticipation for the event. Early bird general admission tickets are priced at E150, with pre-sale tickets available at E200 and gate tickets at E250. For those seeking premium experience, VIP tickets are offered at E400 for early birds, E500 during presale, and E600 at the gate.
Senzo Mfundo Vilakazi, professionally known as Kwesta, is a prominent South African rapper and songwriter from Katlehong, Gauteng, a township often referred to as ‘K1’.
His musical journey began early; in 2003, at just 15 years old, Kwesta and his friends formed a rap group initially called Ghetto Fellaz, which was later renamed The Juvenylz within the same year.
Demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit, he co-founded RapLyf Records, an independent media company, alongside Kid X, under which he continues to release music.
Kwesta’s debut studio album, Special ReKwest, was released in 2010, marking the start of his professional recording career. His sophomore album, DaKAR (2013), gained significant traction, reaching number 3 on the iTunes South African Hip-hop/Rap chart
. However, it was his third studio album, DaKAR II (2016), that cemented his status as a leading figure in South African hip hop. The album featured hit singles such as “Ngud,” “Nomayini,” “Day One,” “Ngiyazifela Ngawe,” “Mayibabo,” and “Mmino.
” DaKAR II achieved monumental success, being certified 7× Platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA) and selling 210,000 copies.
Continuing his success, Kwesta released his fifth studio album, g.o.d Guluva (2021), which debuted at number 3 on South African charts, further solidifying his influence in the music industry.
Throughout his career, Kwesta has earned numerous accolades, including six South African Music Awards, four South African Hip Hop Awards, an MTV Africa Music Award, and a Metro FM Award.