Ubuntu Fest 2025: A Lusaka Weekend to Remember

The perfectly rolled-out Ubuntu Fest 2025 wrapped up April with unforgettable memories and an undeniable buzz of energy. All roads led to NASDEC along Danny Pule Road for the two-day festival that kicked off on Saturday afternoon. The weather was impeccable, and DJ Kasi set the tone early, preparing attendees with the perfect sonic latitude. Mwila and The Shirtless Men transported the crowd back to the golden era of PK Chishala with classics like Na Musonda.

True to the Ubuntu spirit, Mizhu Entertainment provided a vibrant platform for vendors to showcase their products and services. A wide range of food and beverage stalls, including Uncle K, Vatra Water, Brothers Beverages, Binto, Yoyo Fun Snacks, Debonairs, Steers, Gingers Food, The Blazin Spot, Foodie Fiesta, Nola, Akwaaba, Namibia, Fork and Feast, Keria Chops, and Aunty Vicky’s, kept everyone satisfied. Cultural and artisanal stalls also shone brightly, with traditional products from Paul Saint African Beads and even L's Grill from the United Kingdom offering their unique gems. Mpundu Escape added a touch of adrenaline with a paintball activity featuring target shooting.

As day turned to night, the vibrant Karsta took the stage, introduced by none other than industry favourite and host Cleo Ice Queen. He was accompanied by traditional dancers to deliver the official Ubuntu Fest soundtrack, and later performed his new single Infinity, released under Crystal Ball Entertainment.bThe night intensified as The Iconic Band delivered back-to-back hit singles with a powerful live band twist. DJ Sly kept the momentum with an electric Amapiano mix, as co-hosts Edna – the people’s bae – and Uncle K hyped the crowd with signature slogans. Then came the moment Lusaka was waiting for: Jay Trigga. Phones lit up the night sky as he hit the stage with Buss Brain, followed by crowd favourites Jump and Twist, Sade, and a powerful duet of Nationality with Ari.

Delight carried the vibe forward, paving the way for T-Low, who mesmerized the audience with Balekana and Kale Bwangu, before joining forces with the legendary Mumba Yachi for their timeless hit Because of You.

Mumba Yachi closed his set before Aqualaskin brought his raw, shirtless energy to the stage, igniting the crowd with hits like M’simbi. Then came a thunderous welcome for Slap Dee, who stunned fans with a surprise appearance by Jay Rox to perform their smash hit Ndine Chikali. With that, Day One ended on a high, paving the way for an exciting Sunday.

Day Two: Family, Fun, and More Music

By 10 AM on Sunday, Ubuntu Fest was already bringing Lusaka to life. The second day was dubbed Family Fun Day, filled with kid-friendly activities, an open Kid Zone, delicious food, chilled drinks, and infectious feel-good music. Cultural dances took the spotlight while young talents lit up the Rhythm Stage. As noon approached, DJ Hussein took over the decks, leading the sonic journey before passing the mic to DJ Nia B, who kept families grooving with Amapiano favourites. Later, DJ Phets blended Log Drum with Private School ‘Piano, catering to all tastes. Rustar captured hearts with Wanga, My Lover, and Cinderella, while Kunkeyani Tha Jedi kept the energy flowing as the evening approached.

The ever-stylish Uncle K returned to introduce Karsta for his final performance of the Ubuntu Fest anthem—this time, the kids sang along word for word, their voices ringing across the venue. Tommy Smiley brought a fresh vibe with a set that fused Western Pop, Afro Beats, and Zed Music. He was joined by the energetic dance group The Merge for a perfectly synchronized routine, showing off his versatility.

The stage was then set for the soulful Wezi, backed by The African Vibes Band. Opening with Toliwe, she paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Lily T with Mwana, leaving the crowd deeply moved.

DJ Bizzy Wizzy and DJ Cranky reignited the party with throwback anthems like Sister Bettina, Turn Down For What, and Azonto—the perfect lead-in for the charismatic Ndine Emma, who shook things up with surprise guests, Dope Boys, performing Chilepule Baby, Nakaba, and Mpu.

Then, the one and only Chef 187, the Lyrical Sensei, took the stage. Opening with Wingonawila Ka Day, he powered through Nimpopoka, Tuleya Tulekula, Ba Yubu, Higher, Twikalafye Umukumo Umo, Nobody, and 360, among others. Every line was a lyrical punch; every track, a crowd explosion.

DJ Toots closed the festival on a high note, wrapping up a weekend of celebration, culture, and unity.

With all promises fulfilled, Mizhu Entertainment successfully turned their dream into a reality. As Lusaka waits in anticipation for the Ubuntu Hangout in May, the memories of Ubuntu Fest 2025 will live on.