Nomsa Mazwai Launches Sober Fest — A Celebration of Freedom, Wellness, and Family.
South African Music Award-winning artist, socio-economic developer and cultural leader Nomsa Mazwai proudly announces the launch of Sober Fest, a […]
Black News 
South African Music Award-winning artist, socio-economic developer and cultural leader Nomsa Mazwai proudly announces the launch of Sober Fest, a health and wellness family music festival taking place on Freedom Day weekend, Sunday 26 April 2026, from 10am to 6pm at the Soweto Theatre, Johannesburg. Tickets are available via Webtickets.
The festival seeks to enable families to access what Mazwai references as “a New Freedom” — one rooted in substance-free living, community wellness, and conscious celebration.
Mazwai shares that “South Africa faces a disproportionately high burden of substance abuse compared to global norms, with patterns of harm that carry profound economic and social consequences. Studies estimate that alcohol-related harm alone costs the country between 10% and 12% of GDP, far exceeding the global average of 2–3%. Additionally, 45.4% of South African drinkers engage in heavy episodic (binge) drinking, compared to a global average of 11.5%. These patterns are closely linked to violence, crime, mental health challenges, reduced productivity, and long-term social harm, while globally, substance use contributes to over 3 million deaths annually. In this context, Sober Fest emerges not only as a cultural experience but as a necessary resource for people and families affected and impacted by addiction. Sober Fest is a place to access information about available support for addicts and their families alike in a hopeful environment. There is a solution.”
Headlining the festival are Thandiswa Mazwai, Nomisupasta, and Maleh, bringing together powerful voices across generations of South African music. The DJ lineup features DJ Kenzhero and Vester Sdizo, while the festival will be hosted by Ntsiki Mazwai, promising a vibrant and engaging programme throughout the day.
Maleh shares that, “Sober Fest is not just any event. I love the fact that it is a declaration that joy, freedom and celebration don’t need substances to be enjoyable. As a mother, I value spaces where our children can experience joy safely. As a gospel artist, I am passionate about sharing music that heals and uplifts. Sober Fest is exactly that kind of space, and I’m truly honoured to be part of it.”
Beyond music, Sober Fest curates a holistic wellness experience. The wellness programme includes breathwork with Lebo Nke, yoga facilitated by Thando from Here. Now, a sound bath, guided walking tours to local liberation heritage sites, and comedy by Khanyisa Bunu, offering audiences a multidimensional approach to healing, joy, and connection. The festival is fully family-oriented, featuring a secure, supervised children’s play area, as well as a curated marketplace of food and craft stalls, including wellness products and different food options.
Thandiswa says, “I am excited to be part of this new movement. South Africa has a serious problem with substance abuse, and this is an opportunity for us to redefine socialising.”
The festival is presented by Soweto Night Out tours & Soweto Theatre and supported by Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Media 24, whose partnership enables both the accessibility and expansion of this new cultural offering.
Event: Sober Fest
Date: Sunday, 26 April 2026
Venue: Soweto Theatre, Johannesburg
Ticket link: https://www.webticket.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1582839398&promoterid=1584288134
Instagram: @soberfestza
TikTok: @nomsamazwai
