Celebrated media personality Somizi Mhlongo has signed a one-year contract with Kota Festival as their new ambassador following a media briefing held in Newtown, Johannesburg, on Tuesday.
In another move, the Kota Festival Tour will be powered by a strategic partnership with leading brands such as Albany and All Gold. Following a three-year partnership deal, Albany will step in as the title sponsor with a remarkable R12.9 million investment.
During the media briefing, Somizi expressed his enthusiasm for the festival, highlighting the importance of contributing positively to society.
“As much as I know that the festival is growing, we need to look further down the line and say in three years what has been our contribution to this programme. We must not just be the face of the brand but contribute positively to society,” he remarked, reflecting his commitment to the festival’s vision beyond mere representation.
As the official title sponsor, Albany will play a pivotal role in supporting 24 events throughout South Africa over the next three years, successfully uniting food lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and local businesses under one umbrella.
This collaboration goes beyond entertainment — Albany and Tiger Brands are dedicated to empowering the informal market, aiming to create over 2 000 job opportunities through the course of the festival events.
Further enriching the festival will be All Gold Tomato Sauce, announced as a key partner alongside Albany. Together, they will ensure that food lovers across the nation have access to high-quality products while celebrating South Africa’s rich and diverse culinary heritage.
The festival promises an exhilarating nationwide tour of selected townships, beginning with the East Rand Kota Festival showcase at Emperors Palace on March 1, 2025.
After numerous stops across the country, the tour will culminate at the much-anticipated Pitori Kota Festival at Fountains Valley in Pretoria on November 29, 2025.
Initially launched in Gauteng in 2023, the Kota Festival Tour was the first-ever event of its kind, and its expansion in 2024 promises to thrill attendees.
The festival is poised to showcase the vibrant tapestry of South African food, music, art, and culture, with a spotlight on the iconic kota — a beloved local street food that has earned a place in the hearts of many.
The Star