The inclusion of American singer Sy’leena Johnson in the 2026 Mapungubwe Arts Festival programme has sparked concern among Limpopo artists, who say local creatives are being denied meaningful opportunities on major provincial platforms.
The Limpopo Artists Movement (LAM) said it welcomed international artists performing in the province but questioned whether enough opportunities were being created for artists from Limpopo.
LAM chairperson Mphoza Mashabela said the organisation was disappointed that it was not consulted before the festival programme was finalised.
The movement said it could have provided input that would have helped ensure more local artists were included in the programme.
LAM also raised concerns about the apparent continued appointment of the same service provider for programmes of this nature.
While acknowledging government procurement processes, the organisation said suitably qualified promoters and creative businesses from all districts of Limpopo should be given opportunities to participate.
LAM said public investment in arts and culture should result in meaningful economic opportunities for local creative practitioners.
The organisation called for greater representation of Limpopo artists, broader stakeholder consultation and increased participation by local promoters and creative businesses at the Mapungubwe Arts Festival.
“Our concern is not with international artists performing in Limpopo. We welcome cultural exchange and international participation. However, we believe such participation must be balanced with meaningful opportunities for Limpopo’s own artists,” LAM said.
The movement said Limpopo had enough talent and creativity to fill its own stages and that local artists should not become spectators to opportunities created in their province. Spokesperson for the Department Arts , Sports and Culture Jermina Kaka asked Africa Daily to send her written questions on Wednesday. But she had not responded to them at the time of publication.