South African music trio WTF is back with a brand new single titled Mawungekho, set for release on 29th of May 2026 and this time they are bringing together the worlds of Trap, Amapiano and Maskandi in a way only they can. Featuring the soulful voice of uZondi, the song tells a deeply familiar story about love, pressure, timing and the fear of losing someone special to another person. It unfolds like a conversation between friends encouraging each other to step up and commit before it is too late, while also carrying the emotional weight of someone admitting that life simply feels incomplete without the person they love.

Known for creating and shaping the Gqomtrap sound, WTF continues to push South African music into exciting territory while staying connected to its roots. Formed in Durban in 2013 by Mnqobi Charles and Lindokuhle Gcwensa, the group has built a reputation for energetic performances and fearless experimentation, working with artists including AKA, Cassper Nyovest, DJ Maphorisa, DJ Tira, KO, Blxckie as well as the late Riky Rick. With Mawungekho, the group once again proves that South African music can honour tradition while still sounding fresh, bold and completely original.

South African music trio WTF is back with a brand new single titled Mawungekho, set for release on 29th of May 2026 and this time they are bringing together the worlds of Trap, Amapiano and Maskandi in a way only they can. Featuring the soulful voice of uZondi, the song tells a deeply familiar story about love, pressure, timing and the fear of losing someone special to another person. It unfolds like a conversation between friends encouraging each other to step up and commit before it is too late, while also carrying the emotional weight of someone admitting that life simply feels incomplete without the person they love.
Known for creating and shaping the Gqomtrap sound, WTF continues to push South African music into exciting territory while staying connected to its roots. Formed in Durban in 2013 by Mnqobi Charles and Lindokuhle Gcwensa, the group has built a reputation for energetic performances and fearless experimentation, working with artists including AKA, Cassper Nyovest, DJ Maphorisa, DJ Tira, KO, Blxckie as well as the late Riky Rick. With Mawungekho, the group once again proves that South African music can honour tradition while still sounding fresh, bold and completely original.

WTF returns with a powerful new love anthem rooted in culture and modern sound

Soosi, also known as Galandi Shafiq, has become one of Uganda’s fast rising online entertainers through his weekly “This Is How I Died” skits and his now famous bread munching antics during Premier League matchdays. Born and raised in Kampala, the former meteorologist has built a strong social media following by turning ordinary everyday experiences into comedy that resonates with audiences across Africa and beyond.

Through platforms like TikTok, Instagram and X, Soosi’s sharp humour and relatable storytelling have attracted millions of views and a rapidly growing fanbase across the continent and in the diaspora. His rise in the comedy space has also opened doors for major collaborations, including working alongside Nigerian comedy star Sabinus. As his online presence continues to grow, Soosi is using social media as a powerful launchpad to build a long term career in entertainment while bringing Ugandan humour to a wider audience.

Soosi, also known as Galandi Shafiq, has become one of Uganda&rsquo;s fast rising online entertainers through his weekly &ldquo;This Is How I Died&rdquo; skits and his now famous bread munching antics during Premier League matchdays. Born and raised in Kampala, the former meteorologist has built a strong social media following by turning ordinary everyday experiences into comedy that resonates with audiences across Africa and beyond.
Through platforms like TikTok, Instagram and X, Soosi&rsquo;s sharp humour and relatable storytelling have attracted millions of views and a rapidly growing fanbase across the continent and in the diaspora. His rise in the comedy space has also opened doors for major collaborations, including working alongside Nigerian comedy star Sabinus. As his online presence continues to grow, Soosi is using social media as a powerful launchpad to build a long term career in entertainment while bringing Ugandan humour to a wider audience.

Ugandan Comedy star Soosi turns everyday life into viral entertainmen

Fresh off reaching the African National Top 200 All Genres Chart, Calvin Fallo returns with a brand new single titled Everybody Wanna Be In Love. Born Katlego Mashilane in Pretoria, widely recognised as the birthplace of Amapiano, Calvin has spent more than a decade helping shape the sound and direction of the genre. From the township streets to international audiences, his music continues to carry the soulful energy and rhythm that have made Amapiano one of Africa’s biggest cultural exports.

His latest release Everybody Wanna Be In Love blends smooth Dance production with Swahili lyrics, creating a musical connection between South Africa and East Africa. The track is built for both radio listeners and dancefloor crowds, while still holding onto the authentic township influence that defines Calvin’s sound. Alongside new work such as the Afro House collaboration If Its Not Broken Dont Fix It EP, Calvin Fallo continues to show his range as an artist and producer while strengthening his influence across the African music scene.

He joins us instudio.

Fresh off reaching the African National Top 200 All Genres Chart, Calvin Fallo returns with a brand new single titled Everybody Wanna Be In Love. Born Katlego Mashilane in Pretoria, widely recognised as the birthplace of Amapiano, Calvin has spent more than a decade helping shape the sound and direction of the genre. From the township streets to international audiences, his music continues to carry the soulful energy and rhythm that have made Amapiano one of Africa&rsquo;s biggest cultural exports.
His latest release Everybody Wanna Be In Love blends smooth Dance production with Swahili lyrics, creating a musical connection between South Africa and East Africa. The track is built for both radio listeners and dancefloor crowds, while still holding onto the authentic township influence that defines Calvin&rsquo;s sound. Alongside new work such as the Afro House collaboration If Its Not Broken Dont Fix It EP, Calvin Fallo continues to show his range as an artist and producer while strengthening his influence across the African music scene.
He joins us instudio.

Fallo brings Pretoria soul,  East African rhythm together in a new love anthem

Following the success of his month of love anthem Bang’bonile, Xduppy returns with a brand new single, Lwetse. Released earlier this year, Bang’bonile became a major talking point after surpassing 2 million streams and inspiring nearly 20,000 TikTok creations within its first week.

Now, Xduppy is shifting the focus toward ambition, hunger and the pursuit of success with Lwetse. Borrowed from the Sesotho word bolwetse, meaning illness, the song compares the drive to chase money and success to something impossible to shake off. Built as both a club anthem and a street soundtrack, the single is already gaining momentum online through a growing TikTok dance challenge.

With playlist support across Apple Music in South, West and East Africa, as well as the top cover spot on Spotify’s New Amapiano playlist, Xduppy continues to cement his place as one of the rising names shaping the future of the genre.

Following the success of his month of love anthem Bang&rsquo;bonile, Xduppy returns with a brand new single, Lwetse. Released earlier this year, Bang&rsquo;bonile became a major talking point after surpassing 2 million streams and inspiring nearly 20,000 TikTok creations within its first week.
Now, Xduppy is shifting the focus toward ambition, hunger and the pursuit of success with Lwetse. Borrowed from the Sesotho word bolwetse, meaning illness, the song compares the drive to chase money and success to something impossible to shake off. Built as both a club anthem and a street soundtrack, the single is already gaining momentum online through a growing TikTok dance challenge.
With playlist support across Apple Music in South, West and East Africa, as well as the top cover spot on Spotify&rsquo;s New Amapiano playlist, Xduppy continues to cement his place as one of the rising names shaping the future of the genre.

Xduppy turns the hustle for success into a street anthem with Lwetse 

Amapiano artist Mordecai continues to build his name within South Africa’s music scene following the release of his 16 track album Mamello with collaborations featuring Yumbs, JayJayy, Blue Pappi, Rory Diamondz, Sandy6eats and Thatohatsi. Led by the standout single Marato Fela, meaning “love only” the project encapsulates an emotionally driven sound that has become closely associated with Mordecai’s music.

Since making his debut with Product of My Craft in 2024, Mordecai has steadily expanded his catalogue with releases including Whispers of Love, Blondeca and the deluxe edition of Blondeca. Along the way, he earned platinum recognition for tracks such as Ngeke n’Believe’e, Phesheya, and Di Kgomo, establishing himself as one of the genre’s consistent voices. Mamello sees him pushing his sound further while remaining grounded in the style that built his following, drawing inspiration from his upbringing in the east of Johannesburg.

Amapiano artist Mordecai continues to build his name within South Africa&rsquo;s music scene following the release of his 16 track album Mamello with collaborations featuring Yumbs, JayJayy, Blue Pappi, Rory Diamondz, Sandy6eats and Thatohatsi. Led by the standout single Marato Fela, meaning &ldquo;love only&rdquo; the project encapsulates an emotionally driven sound that has become closely associated with Mordecai&rsquo;s music.
Since making his debut with Product of My Craft in 2024, Mordecai has steadily expanded his catalogue with releases including Whispers of Love, Blondeca and the deluxe edition of Blondeca. Along the way, he earned platinum recognition for tracks such as Ngeke n&rsquo;Believe&rsquo;e, Phesheya, and Di Kgomo, establishing himself as one of the genre&rsquo;s consistent voices. Mamello sees him pushing his sound further while remaining grounded in the style that built his following, drawing inspiration from his upbringing in the east of Johannesburg.

Mordecai expands his Amapiano journey with the release of Mamello

Africa’s hospitality industry is experiencing significant growth, with more than 577 hotel and resort projects currently in development across the continent, adding over 104,000 rooms to the pipeline. Countries including Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia and South Africa are among the major contributors to this expansion, driven by rising travel demand and growing interest in business travel along with tourism. Industry experts say the rapid pace of development is also placing pressure on construction timelines, supplier networks and procurement systems as operators work to meet international hospitality standards while navigating local challenges.

At the same time, hotels across Africa are increasingly focusing on energy efficiency, water management and cost effective operations as part of their long term planning. As hotel development continues to accelerate across the continent, conversations around sustainability, supply chains and operational efficiency are becoming just as important as the growth itself.

 Joining us on the line is Lee-Anne Bac, Director at BDO.

Africa&rsquo;s hospitality industry is experiencing significant growth, with more than 577 hotel and resort projects currently in development across the continent, adding over 104,000 rooms to the pipeline. Countries including Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia and South Africa are among the major contributors to this expansion, driven by rising travel demand and growing interest in business travel along with tourism. Industry experts say the rapid pace of development is also placing pressure on construction timelines, supplier networks and procurement systems as operators work to meet international hospitality standards while navigating local challenges.
At the same time, hotels across Africa are increasingly focusing on energy efficiency, water management and cost effective operations as part of their long term planning. As hotel development continues to accelerate across the continent, conversations around sustainability, supply chains and operational efficiency are becoming just as important as the growth itself.
&nbsp;Joining us on the line is Lee-Anne Bac, Director at BDO.

Africa’s hotel industry continues to grow as demand for travel, hospitality rises

One of Africa’s biggest cultural festivals, MTN Bushfire, has officially revealed its full lineup for the 2026 edition, bringing together a mix of music, poetry, theatre and dance from across the continent and beyond.

Taking place from the of May 29th to the 31st at the Malkerns Valley in Eswatini, this year’s festival will feature performances from artists including Uncle Waffles, Moonchild Sanelly and many more. Known for celebrating African creativity and cultural exchange, the festival continues to attract thousands of attendees every year.

Since launching in 2007, MTN Bushfire has grown into one of the continent’s most recognised live events, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its unique mix of music, art, activism and community spirit. The festival, which regularly welcomes crowds of up to 20 000 people, has also earned international recognition from major platforms. 

To further unpack we are joined on the line by Phiwo Dhlamini, Communications Manager of MTN Bushfire.

One of Africa&rsquo;s biggest cultural festivals, MTN Bushfire, has officially revealed its full lineup for the 2026 edition, bringing together a mix of music, poetry, theatre and dance from across the continent and beyond.
Taking place from the of May 29th to the 31st at the Malkerns Valley in Eswatini, this year&rsquo;s festival will feature performances from artists including Uncle Waffles, Moonchild Sanelly and many more. Known for celebrating African creativity and cultural exchange, the festival continues to attract thousands of attendees every year.
Since launching in 2007, MTN Bushfire has grown into one of the continent&rsquo;s most recognised live events, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its unique mix of music, art, activism and community spirit. The festival, which regularly welcomes crowds of up to 20 000 people, has also earned international recognition from major platforms.&nbsp;
To further unpack we are joined on the line by Phiwo Dhlamini, Communications Manager of MTN Bushfire.

MTN Bushfire returns with a packed lineup of African music and creative talent

Preparing dinner for a family can quickly become expensive, especially when grocery prices continue to rise and busy schedules leave little time for planning. But affordable meals do not have to feel boring or repetitive. Using everyday ingredients like potatoes, beans, rice, canned tomatoes, and ground beef, home cooks are finding creative ways to turn pantry staples into meals that feel just as enjoyable as restaurant favourites.

Cooking on a budget has also encouraged more people to rethink how they shop and prepare meals at home. Buying staple items such as rice, flour, canned goods and beans in bulk has become a practical way to save money while making it easier to prepare quick dinners during the week. At the same time, many families are leaning into simple recipes that rely on bold spices and homemade touches rather than expensive ingredients.

 Joining us in studio is Chef Sibu Nyembe.

Preparing dinner for a family can quickly become expensive, especially when grocery prices continue to rise and busy schedules leave little time for planning. But affordable meals do not have to feel boring or repetitive. Using everyday ingredients like potatoes, beans, rice, canned tomatoes, and ground beef, home cooks are finding creative ways to turn pantry staples into meals that feel just as enjoyable as restaurant favourites.
Cooking on a budget has also encouraged more people to rethink how they shop and prepare meals at home. Buying staple items such as rice, flour, canned goods and beans in bulk has become a practical way to save money while making it easier to prepare quick dinners during the week. At the same time, many families are leaning into simple recipes that rely on bold spices and homemade touches rather than expensive ingredients.
&nbsp;Joining us in studio is Chef Sibu Nyembe.

Comfort food without expensive grocery bill is winning over families

South African actress and singer Nirvana Nokwe recently spoke publicly about her experience while working on the production of Red Ink in 2023, where she made serious allegations against fellow actor Bonko Khoza. In a video shared on social media, Nokwe explained why she decided to step away from traditional acting roles, describing the experience as deeply traumatic and emotionally difficult. She also spoke about feeling discouraged from formally reporting the matter because of concerns about how it could affect her career in the entertainment industry.

The allegations sparked widespread conversation online, with many South Africans expressing different views and reactions across social media platforms. Some supporters praised Nokwe for speaking openly about her experience and highlighted the pressures often faced within the entertainment industry, while others called for caution and fairness as discussions continue around the matter. The story has also renewed conversations around safety, accountability, and support systems within film and television productions in South Africa. She joins us on the line.

South African actress and singer Nirvana Nokwe recently spoke publicly about her experience while working on the production of Red Ink in 2023, where she made serious allegations against fellow actor Bonko Khoza. In a video shared on social media, Nokwe explained why she decided to step away from traditional acting roles, describing the experience as deeply traumatic and emotionally difficult. She also spoke about feeling discouraged from formally reporting the matter because of concerns about how it could affect her career in the entertainment industry.
The allegations sparked widespread conversation online, with many South Africans expressing different views and reactions across social media platforms. Some supporters praised Nokwe for speaking openly about her experience and highlighted the pressures often faced within the entertainment industry, while others called for caution and fairness as discussions continue around the matter. The story has also renewed conversations around safety, accountability, and support systems within film and television productions in South Africa. She joins us on the line.

Conversations around safety in South African film and television grow after Nokwe’s public allegations against Khoza

As conversations continue around safety and professionalism within Africa’s film and television industry, growing attention is being placed on the role of intimacy coaches and why they may be becoming increasingly important on production sets. Intimacy coaches are trained professionals who help actors and directors manage scenes involving physical closeness, romance or sensitive content in a structured and respectful way.

Across parts of Europe and the United States, these professionals have already become a more common part of film and television productions, but discussions are now growing around whether African productions should also begin adopting similar practices more widely. In the African context, where conversations around boundaries, consent, workplace culture, and power dynamics are often influenced by cultural expectations and industry pressures, many believe intimacy coaches could help create safer and more transparent working environments for performers. Joining us on the line is Dr. Èmil Haarhoff, Intimacy Coordinator & Young Performer Support Specialist.

As conversations continue around safety and professionalism within Africa&rsquo;s film and television industry, growing attention is being placed on the role of intimacy coaches and why they may be becoming increasingly important on production sets. Intimacy coaches are trained professionals who help actors and directors manage scenes involving physical closeness, romance or sensitive content in a structured and respectful way.
Across parts of Europe and the United States, these professionals have already become a more common part of film and television productions, but discussions are now growing around whether African productions should also begin adopting similar practices more widely. In the African context, where conversations around boundaries, consent, workplace culture, and power dynamics are often influenced by cultural expectations and industry pressures, many believe intimacy coaches could help create safer and more transparent working environments for performers. Joining us on the line is Dr. &Egrave;mil Haarhoff, Intimacy Coordinator &amp; Young Performer Support Specialist.

Why intimacy coaches are becoming an important conversation in African film

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

The Upside

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