By Charmaine Ndlela and Lebone Rodah Mosima
The Jozi Kota Festival is underway in Newtown today, bringing more than just food and entertainment, but a deliberate push to stimulate township economies and create jobs.

Held under the theme “Ezase Mzansi Hip Hop”, this year’s festival is delivering an energetic experience while positioning itself as a driver of local economic growth.
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Organisers say the 2026 edition is already generating direct employment opportunities for event staff, security personnel, technical crews, and hospitality workers. Employment across the broader 2026 Kota tour is expected to increase by at least 200% compared to 2025, with a target of creating over 5,000 jobs.

As part of the initiative, vendors participating in the national tour stand a chance to win a share of R110,000, a move aimed at encouraging innovation while injecting capital into emerging township
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