DECADE OF FESTIVITIES MADE IN MOGALE CITY!

As South Africa prepares to commemorate Freedom Day, 27 April 2026, the spirit of celebration will arrive a day early in Krugersdorp, Mogale City, where music lovers are set to gather for the inaugural Made-in-Mogale Soul and Gospel Experience.

That’s not all, the Soweto Derby Fan Park, an open-view stage for the Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates’ Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium, would be a cherry on top of the annual music festival set to attract hordes of top local stars.

The highly anticipated event, co-sponsored in collaboration with South Africa’s leading closed-access fibre netwok operator (FNO), Net Nine Nine, will take place at Munsieville Stadium, Krugersdorp on 26 April, bringing together a powerful blend of soul, gospel and R&B music in a celebration that has grown into a cornerstone of the local cultural calendar.

Now in its 10th year, the Made-in-Mogale brand has evolved from a grassroots idea into a fully-fledged festival platform that champions local talent, stimulates economic activity and creates accessible entertainment for residents of Mogale City.

Founded in 2016 by directors Kagiso Selele, Tebogo Mokgomong, Itumeleng Tsime and Thabo Ngwenya, the initiative was born out of a simple but powerful vision to bring large-scale, high-quality events closer to home.

“We realised that people in Mogale City often had to travel far to attend major festivals. So, we created something that speaks directly to our community, something that keeps everything local, from the artists to the vendors,” explained Selele.

The choice of venue is no coincidence, according to Selele and Mokgomong – Munsieville Stadium holds deep historical and cultural significance, making it a fitting backdrop for an event staged on the eve of Freedom Day.

The stadium famously hosted the 2019 reburial ceremony for the “Munsieville” Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) freedom fighters hanged in 1964. 

The timing reinforces the festival’s broader message of unity, reflection and celebration through music, a theme that resonates strongly with gospel and soul audiences.

This first edition is particularly significant as it marks the growth and resilience, as what started as a single concept has now expanded into a broader events calendar.

According to Selele, with this addition to their line-up, 2026 will see the organisation hosting four major events, including the Soul and Gospel Experience in April, a women-focused gathering in August, a flagship festival in October, and a summer music event in December.

The Soul and Gospel Experience looks set to compete to be one of their flagship offerings, promising a spiritually uplifting and musically rich experience.

Audiences can expect a carefully curated lineup featuring both established and emerging artists.

This approach has also attracted corporate interest, with companies recognising the value of investing in community-driven initiatives.

Among the sponsors supporting this year’s event is Net Nine Nine, whose involvement underscores the growing appeal and credibility of the festival.

The event will showcase well-known gospel performers, alongside R&B favourites and popular radio DJs, creating a diverse and dynamic programme.

“We are bringing a gospel segment that speaks to the soul, alongside R&B and soulful sounds that people can enjoy throughout the day. It’s about creating an atmosphere where people can relax, reflect and celebrate together,” said Selele.

IT’S MORE THAN JUST MUSIC!

Beyond the music, the event also aims to deliver a full entertainment experience, as patrons will be able to enjoy live DJ sets, social spaces, and even a live screening of a major football match, Soweto derby, adding another layer of excitement for sports fans attending the festival.

Importantly, the Made-in-Mogale concept goes beyond entertainment – it is rooted in community development and economic empowerment.

By prioritising local artists, food vendors and small businesses, the event creates meaningful opportunities for entrepreneurs within Krugersdorp, Mogale City.

“We make sure that local talent is represented, and that local vendors are given a platform to showcase their work. It’s about driving the local economy and giving people exposure,” said Mokgomong.

“It’s more about creating a family-friendly picnic environment where people can come with their children and enjoy a safe, relaxed space. At the same time, it gives local chefs and vendors a chance to showcase their skills.”

While the Made-in-Mogale brand also includes a food festival concept, Selele emphasised that its focus extends beyond cuisine.

As the Group celebrates its 10-year milestone, organisers are confident that this inaugural showpiece – Soul and Gospel Experience – will be one of the biggest yet.