THE ‘draconian law’ prohibiting liquor outlets from operating beyond midnight in Limpopo province has been interdicted.
This follows the provincial government’s decision to implement a new ‘Midnight Law’ in an effort to curb GBV, rape and sexual misconducts, amongst others.
Should the Bill be implemented it means the annual Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival, could be in danger of losing millions.
At the packed media launch on Tuesday at the SABC headquarters in Jozi, Limpopo Tourism Agency brand manager Jerry Mamabolo, said since there’s an interdict on this matter and it is before court, he could not say much until the judgment is handed down.
Convener at the National Liquor Traders Council, Lucky Ntimane, is also against the banning as it will “hamper economical benefits in the province and hit hard pockets of tavern establishments”.
Rodgers Monama, MEC Economic Development, Environment and Tourism in Limpopo did not have a representative at the launch.
The 9th iteration of the Heritage festival will be held at the Nandoni Dam, Thulamela on Saturday, 16 September, after hiatus due to Covid.
Almost 40 artists drawn from Limpopo and national will grace the gigantic stage as they entertain over 35 000 patrons expected from SADC, during a three-day razzmatazz.
Unfazed by recent developments, festival co-organiser Shandu Nesengani, told guests they should brace themselves for a jampacked line-up peppered with up-coming musicians, as part of giving back to the people of Limpopo and economical spin-offs associated with it, such as tourism and job creation.
Draw cards Colbert Mukwevho, Young Stunna, Musa Keys, Boohle, Murumba Pitch, Nadia Nakai, Pleasure Tsa Manyalo, Makhadzi, Busta 929, Mac G, Lulo Cafe, Miss P, Sol, Rud Kid Venda, DJ Nipro, Dr Gee, Cyria the Community, Leonard Zhakata (Zimbabwe), Mark Ngwazi (Zimbabwe), Mr Bow (Mozambique), form part the line-up.
But what would the fest be without the ‘Queen of Limpopo’ Makhadzi, that would be injustice as she’s expected to share the stage with another draw- cards Big Zulu and Matshikos, amongst others.
“Yes, all artists will be paid in full,” continued Shandu, responding on allegations that some promoters tend to not honour their contracts in settling musician’s terms.
Dichaba Phalatse- SABC marketing manager for video entertainment, says the fest will only be broadcast in December on SABC 2, as part of changes effected within the channel.
Tickets are available at R230 from ticketpro.
