Table of Contents
Tomorrow, January 2, the groundbreaking WAV Festival will make its highly anticipated debut, redefining R&B and soul music on the African continent at the iconic Green Point Track in Cape Town. This immersive one-day celebration is expected to draw over 8,000 passionate attendees from across the globe, uniting lovers of music, culture, entertainment, tourism, fashion, and digital creativity in a powerful display of African and diasporic innovation.
When Did Claudia Naisabwa Announce Her Role in the WAV Festival?
Claudia Naisabwa’s exciting role as co-host of the WAV Festival was publicly highlighted in a major interview published on December 30, 2025, by The Observer in Uganda. In the feature titled “Claudia Naisabwa: Africa’s biggest export since Afrobeats,” she confirmed being selected as the only East African representative and official host for this landmark event—described in her words as a “close-to-Coachella” experience in South Africa.
This announcement came as the festival’s lineup and details had been rolling out since October 2025, building massive anticipation. A joint venture between The Malachite Group and Africa Creative Agency—the teams behind global hits like AfroNation—the festival represents the future of forward-thinking African creativity in a deeply connected global village. With tickets nearly sold out as of today, January 1, the buzz is undeniable.
What Exactly is the WAV Festival?
Imagine a sonic wave crashing over Cape Town, carrying the soulful echoes of R&B reimagined for the African diaspora. WAV Festival, short for “Wave,” is a fresh concept debuted by the powerhouse behind AfroNation, aiming to spotlight emerging and established talents in R&B, soul, and related genres. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Green Point Track—a venue steeped in history as a former athletics stadium now transformed into a hub for major events—the festival unfolds as a single, high-energy day of performances, interactive zones, and cultural exchanges.
The lineup is a masterful mix: headliners like American R&B sensation Mariah The Scientist, whose ethereal vocals have captivated global audiences with hits from her album “To Be Eaten Alive,” share the stage with South African stars such as Kelvin Momo, the Amapiano maestro known for his atmospheric productions, and Shekhinah, whose soulful anthems like “Suited” have earned her multiple South African Music Awards. Other acts include Isaiah Falls, Wale, Sasha Keable, Langa Mavuso, Manana, Nanette, Lia Butler, and Kujenga, creating a diverse tapestry that blends international flair with local innovation.
Beyond the music, expect fashion pop-ups showcasing African designers, digital art installations exploring themes of identity, and tourism tie-ins that encourage visitors to explore Cape Town’s vibrant neighborhoods. This isn’t just a festival; it’s a statement on how African creativity is reshaping global sounds, especially in a post-pandemic world where digital platforms have amplified voices from the continent.
Who is Leading the Charge as Hosts?
At the helm of this cultural wave are two dynamic young talents: Kenya’s Claudia Naisabwa and South Africa’s Thandolwethu “Olly” Zondi. Their co-hosting gig isn’t accidental—it’s a symbolic nod to East-Southern African unity, embodying the festival’s ethos of cross-border collaboration and shared identity. Naisabwa, with her infectious energy dubbed the “Claudia Naisabwa factor,” brings East African vibrancy to the stage, while Zondi, a rising star in acting and presenting, adds a local flavor that’s deeply rooted in South African storytelling.
Together, they represent the new generation of African entertainers: multifaceted, boundary-pushing, and unapologetically authentic. Their chemistry is expected to elevate the event, guiding attendees through performances and interactive segments that amplify themes of creativity and cultural pride.
Who is Claudia Naisabwa?
Claudia Naisabwa, born on September 4, 2002, in Kenya’s Samburu community, is a 23-year-old powerhouse who’s already leaving an indelible mark on Africa’s entertainment landscape. Hailing from a region known for its rich pastoral traditions and stunning landscapes, Naisabwa has transcended her roots to become a media presenter on NTV Kenya and Nation FM, where her charismatic style draws in youthful audiences.
But she’s far more than a broadcaster—she’s an acclaimed events MC, actress, singer, basketball enthusiast, content creator, and commercial artist. Her acting credits include roles that showcase her versatility, while her singing ventures, including original tracks, blend Afrobeats with personal storytelling. As a style curator and sports lover, she often infuses her hosting with high-energy flair, boosting genres like Afrobeats and Amapiano among trendy youth. Naisabwa’s “Africa TakeOver” Tour has seen her grace stages across the continent, and her involvement in initiatives like the CN Initiative underscores her commitment to community empowerment.
Recently, she’s hosted shows like “Take Me Home” Season 2 on Showmax, where her vibrant personality shines through, earning her multi-award-winning status. In essence, Claudia Naisabwa is the embodiment of Gen Z ambition: bold, multifaceted, and a bridge between tradition and modernity.
Who is Thandolwethu Zondi, and Why the Perfect Pairing?
Complementing Naisabwa is Thandolwethu “Olly” Zondi, a 23-year-old South African sensation from Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, who’s rapidly ascending in the entertainment world. Without formal acting training, Zondi transitioned from sports—playing soccer and rugby—to stardom, discovered by talent scouts and landing roles that highlight his dynamic range. He’s best known for his compelling performances in Netflix’s “Go” and “Outlaws” Season 2 on Showmax, where he learned from veteran actors and cemented his reputation as a breakout star of 2025.
Zondi scooped the Best Newcomer Award at the National Film and TV Awards, a testament to his raw talent and versatility as an actor, presenter, and sportsman. Pairing him with Naisabwa isn’t just logistical—it’s poetic. Both in their early 20s, they symbolize youthful African excellence, with Zondi’s grounded South African narratives blending seamlessly with Naisabwa’s East African dynamism to foster bilateral ties and inspire unity.
Why Does This Event Matter for African Music and Culture?
In a world where African music genres like Afrobeats and Amapiano are exploding globally—think Burna Boy’s Grammy wins or Tyla’s viral hits—WAV Festival arrives at a pivotal moment to reclaim and elevate R&B through an African prism. It’s more than entertainment; it’s a platform addressing identity, creativity, and connectivity in a “global village” where diaspora influences meet homegrown innovation.
By featuring artists who fuse traditional soul with modern beats, the festival challenges stereotypes, promotes tourism (Cape Town’s economy could see a boost from international visitors), and fosters economic opportunities for local creators. For Naisabwa, this marks a triumphant stop on her “Africa TakeOver” Tour, amplifying East Africa’s role in the continent’s cultural renaissance. Ultimately, WAV underscores why Africa is the future of music: resilient, diverse, and endlessly creative.
When and Where Can You Catch the Action?
Mark your calendars for January 2, 2026, at Green Point Track in Cape Town—a venue with panoramic views of Table Mountain and easy access via public transport. Gates open early for a full day of festivities, with performances running from afternoon into the night. Tickets are selling fast via the official WAV Festival website, starting at reasonable prices to ensure accessibility. Whether you’re a local Capetonian or flying in from afar, this is your chance to be part of history. Pro tip: Arrive early to snag spots at the interactive zones, and follow the festival’s socials for last-minute updates amid the summer buzz.
As 2026 unfolds, events like WAV Festival remind us that Africa’s story is one of rhythm, resilience, and relentless innovation. Here’s to more waves of unity crashing across the continent—may your year be as electrifying as the beats about to drop in Cape Town.
