Local entrepreneurs say the annual Imiklomelo kaDakamela 2026 Cultural Festival is providing a significant boost to their incomes, with many reporting increased sales during the event.
The festival, hosted by Chief Dakamela, draws visitors from across the country and beyond, creating business opportunities for traders, food vendors and exhibitors.
One trader, who identified herself as MaNdlovu, said the event had opened up valuable opportunities for both local entrepreneurs and those travelling from outside the district.
MaNdlovu, specialising in traditional attire and accessories, said she returns to Nkayi each year to trade at the festival.
“This is a very important event that consistently brings our people together. As someone originally from Nkayi, I am proud of the work our Chief is doing to unite the community,” she said.
She said her stall had attracted steady interest from visitors keen to understand the cultural significance of the items on display.
“I make traditional attire and accessories, and I am proud that my work supports these cultural practices. I am here not only to sell my products, but also to educate people from my community and beyond about the richness of our culture,” she said.
“People have been visiting our stall and asking about the meaning of the accessories, and I have been explaining their significance. We have also had young children coming to learn beadwork, and we have been teaching them.”
MaNdlovu said that while businesses from different provinces and regions take part in the festival, local traders appear to benefit the most.
“For local businesses in particular, the impact has been significant. Some are selling food prepared at home, which reduces their costs, while others are offering services that require minimal capital but still generate profit,” she said.
She added that the festival also promotes cultural exchange, attracting visitors interested in learning about local traditions and practices.
Organisers have previously described the event as both a cultural celebration and a platform for community development.
MaNdlovu said she hopes the festival could be extended over several days in future to allow traders more time to maximise earnings.
“We hope the festival can run for more days so that people can earn more, because business is not usually this good in our community,” she said.
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