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 businesses.
The festival has also introduced Nyama Choma as a new partner, expanding its culinary offering and strengthening collaboration within South Africa’s food ecosystem.
Now back in Newtown, one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant cultural districts, the event is drawing large crowds from across Gauteng, boosting tourism and reinforcing the city’s reputation as a hub for cultural and food-driven experiences.
Organisers say bringing the festival back to its original home at Newtown Station marks both a homecoming and a signal of future expansion.
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Since its launch in Johannesburg in 2017, the Jozi Kota Festival has grown significantly, hosting 13 events across seven provinces and expanding into two neighbouring countries.
A key pillar of this year’s economic impact is the continued partnership with Albany, which supports township food entrepreneurs. Through this collaboration, Albany provides vendors with structured support, brand alignment opportunities and access to broader markets.
Beyond its economic ambitions, the festival is offering a premium, family-friendly experience.
Attendees are enjoying a curated selection of top Kota vendors showcasing both traditional and gourmet takes on the iconic South African street food, alongside a vibrant music and entertainment line-up celebrating local talent.
The 2026 festival is being hosted by Somizi Mhlongo, Napo Modise, and Kilojays. Performances are lighting up the stage from artists including Big Zulu, Sjava, Kabza De Small, Emtee, DJ Maphorisa, K.O., and Lwah Ndlunkulu, among others.
Speaking on the festival’s broader impact, co-founder Luvo Limba says the event has evolved beyond celebration into a platform for meaningful economic change.
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“Each festival represents real jobs and real businesses being supported. We are building something sustainable, not just events, but opportunities,” he says.
Organisers add that the festival’s impact has already been significant. In 2025 alone, it created more than 5,000 jobs, a 150% increase from 2024, while attracting over 64,000 attendees.
The annual event continues to celebrate one of South Africa’s most beloved street foods, the kota, while showcasing local culture, entrepreneurship and community pride.
With the festival now in full swing, all roads are leading to Newtown Station today for a vibrant celebration of food, music, and opportunity.
