Eswatini’s music scene is set for a spectacular surge of fresh talent as the ninth edition of the MTN Bushfire Firefly competition kicks off.
Powered by MTN Eswatini, Firefly has solidified its reputation as the country’s premier music talent platform, dedicated to elevating vocalists, singers and rappers aged between 16 and 35.
More than a competition, MTN Bushfire Firefly is a dynamic launchpad that propels emerging artists into the limelight, helping them break into both local and international music scenes.
How the Competition Unfolds
The competition opened submissions on December 3, 2025, inviting aspiring artists across Eswatini to submit original recordings and Electronic Press Kits (EPKs). Applications closed on February 6, setting the stage for the next phase.
A panel of accredited adjudicators will select the Top 20 finalists, who will advance to live auditions at the iconic House On Fire on March 7. Attendance is mandatory, with no-shows facing immediate disqualification.
Once confirmed, public voting and expert adjudication combine to determine the Top 10, announced on March 20. Artists are encouraged to mobilise supporters, as public votes contribute to their final score.
The grand finale takes place on April 24 at House On Fire, where the Top 10 perform live using back-tracks to showcase vocal ability and stage presence. Judges’ scores and public votes will then determine the Top 3 winners.
These winners will earn coveted performance slots at the globally renowned MTN Bushfire Festival from May 29 to 31.
More Than a Competition
Beyond the thrill of performance, Firefly offers career-defining benefits.
The Top 20 finalists receive:
-
International music promotion
-
MTN CallerTunes onboarding
-
Participation in the prestigious Arts Round Table (ART)
Held during the MTN Bushfire Festival weekend, ART connects artists with global industry stakeholders and fosters digital media development. Partnerships such as the Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) further bridge African and European music markets.
Top 10 finalists receive branded merchandise and expense stipends, while the Top 3 winners are awarded MTN-sponsored mobile phones and performance stipends.
FIRELY SUCCESS STORIES: FROM STAGE TO STARDOM
How Firefly Launched Hip-Hop Star Ace Julz
Ace Julz, the rapper, singer and producer from Siphocosini, credits the 2025 Firefly edition with transforming his career.
“The highlights for me were the rehearsals, the dry run and the actual performance,” he shared. “Those stages helped me track my progress and build confidence to deliver a phenomenal show.”
Firefly opened doors to collaborations with major local names and earned him a coveted spot on the Ivyson Tour led by South African rap icon Nasty C — a milestone moment for the Eswatini artist.
His advice to emerging musicians:
-
Show up for your art.
-
Stay true to your roots.
-
Invest in yourself.
From Winner to Label Owner: Stella Jacobs
Afro-pop and African trap sensation Stella Jacobs redefined her career after winning the 2024 Firefly competition.
Following her victory, she launched her independent record label, Gem of Africa, and released her debut seven-track EP, Inkabikazi.
“That win made my family proud,” Jacobs reflected. “It opened doors to new opportunities.”
Her label, launched in December 2025, makes her the first female artist in Eswatini to own both a record label and events company — a historic milestone.
Celumusa Joins the Firefly Alumni
Afro-pop artist Celumusa Mkhaliphi, known for his hit single Phumelela, was a Top 3 finalist last year.
“The competition is not just about competing but about creating a name for yourself,” he said.
He advises aspiring entrants to:
-
Take preparation seriously
-
Ensure music is available on all digital platforms
-
Maintain an updated EPK
-
Clearly define their genre
Firefly, he emphasised, offers unmatched exposure and professional growth.
A Gateway to Global Stages
MTN Bushfire Firefly remains a cornerstone of Eswatini’s music industry — nurturing fresh talent and offering a credible pathway to larger stages at home and abroad.
For artists ready to elevate their careers, Firefly is more than a competition.
It is the gateway to making their mark.
