The annual Mpumalanga Cultural Experience is underway in the City of Mbombela. Different cultural groups are parading on the streets showcasing the province’s rich cultural heritage.
The parade is also aimed at fostering social cohesion.
The 9th edition of the Cultural Experience includes activities such as music festival, comedy shows and gospel awards.
People who are taking part in the parade say they are not only showcasing their cultures but also learning from others.
One participant says, “We want to experience other cultures, and we want other cultures to experience our culture. We are the Indian Hindu cultural experience, and you can see the costumes, the way we dance, and we are exhibiting how we dress up.”
Another says they are happy to see so many different cultures. “We are here to bring good vibes, bring energy to Nelspruit honestly. So yes, I’m enjoying it. I’m a clown after all; I have to enjoy.”
Mbombela hosts 9th Mpumalanga Cultural Experience till 7th December
Attract revellers
MEC for Culture, Sport and Recreation in Mpumalanga, Leah Mabuza, says the annual Cultural Experience Festival has grown over the years. It features a wide range of activities including musical performances, traditional dances and a cultural exhibition.
Mabuza says the festival has attracted revellers from the neighboring Mozambique and the Kingdom of eSwatini.
“We are bordering between Swaziland and Mozambique, and people of Mozambique are here, and people of Swaziland are here in showcasing culture. And you know what is exciting is that our young people are really taking issues of culture in a manner that they are highly active. They have their own groups which these groups today are more or less more than 40 groups both in all communities that I have mentioned in terms of the race that are participating.”
Cultural experience aims to revitalise Mpumalanga’s economy: MEC Leah Mabuza
