Top KZN Gospel Festival Set to Continue Despite Losing Major Sponsors

The 13th edition of the annual gospel festival in KwaZulu-Natal is set to take place despite losing major sponsors, including KZN Arts and Culture and the Office of the Premier. The festival, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, will be held on Easter Sunday, 5 April, at the Ugu Sport and Leisure Centre in Gamalakhe. Organisers and musicians are determined to keep the event alive, citing its importance for the local gospel music scene and its role in promoting emerging and established artists. For 12 years, the festival has been funded by KZN Arts and Culture, making it a staple event for the community and a platform that has shaped the careers of many gospel musicians. This year, organisers face the challenge of hosting the festival without the traditional support but remain committed to its continuation.

Multi-award-winning gospel artist Jumbo expressed his disappointment over the loss of funding but stressed the responsibility of musicians to support the festival. He said the festival has been crucial in building gospel brands and exposing talent across the region, and it would be painful to let it fade away due to financial setbacks. Jumbo personally contacted fellow gospel artists, including Betusile Mcinga, to rally support for the event and ensure it remains on the calendar. The musicians agreed that their collective involvement could sustain the festival and attract new sponsors along the way. Their commitment highlights the community-driven nature of gospel music and the determination to protect key cultural and religious events.

The artists have already mobilised essential resources to ensure the festival can go ahead. Jumbo confirmed that they secured a marquee, stage, and sound system through Siya Sound, which demonstrates that the festival can proceed even without full sponsorship. Betusile Mcinga also expressed his support, stating that the festival is the biggest gospel gathering in KZN and must not disappear because of financial challenges. The musicians emphasised that their involvement is not conditional on funding, and their presence will help maintain the festival’s reputation and continuity. Their actions underline the role of artists as custodians of cultural and spiritual platforms in their communities.

Festival organiser Mjostana “Pastor Mjosty” expressed his gratitude to the artists for stepping in to safeguard the event. He confirmed that the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality remains a sponsor and added that organisers are open to contributions from anyone willing to support the festival. Pastor Mjosty acknowledged that hosting the event without major sponsors presents challenges but remains optimistic that the festival will thrive with the support of the gospel community. He highlighted the importance of sustaining the festival for both worshippers and artists who have relied on it as a platform to showcase their talent. The organiser’s determination, combined with the artists’ proactive involvement, ensures that the festival continues its legacy despite funding setbacks.

KZN Sport, Arts and Culture spokesman Ntando Mnyandu said the department does not discuss or disclose funding agreements with the media and noted that past sponsorship does not guarantee future support. The Premier’s office has requested time to comment on the matter. Despite the absence of major sponsors this year, musicians and organisers remain committed to making the 13th annual gospel festival a reality. Their actions demonstrate the resilience of the gospel community and the value placed on maintaining cultural and spiritual traditions. The festival is expected to draw large crowds on Easter Sunday, reinforcing its role as one of KZN’s most important gospel music events.