The Free State government has given the green light to locally organised festivals to boost the local economy, despite recent legal challenges over land use for one of the major events.

Before it started on Friday (4/10) at Lemo Green Park, the Lemo Fest faced significant obstacles when the department of community safety, transport, and roads MEC, Jabu Mbalula, attempted to halt the festival due to a land dispute.

Mbalula had filed an interdict to stop the event after citing concerns that the structures being built at the site were unlawful and could disrupt traffic on the nearby M10 national road. However, Freddie Kenney, founder and CEO of Kenworth Group, who organised the festival, walked away victorious after the Bloemfontein High Court ruled in his favour just a week before the event was set to begin.

Acting head of communication at the premier’s office, Setjhaba Maphalla, confirmed the provincial government’s support for the Lemo Fes and the Cufa Festival, which will both take place in early October.

“The spotlight will shine on two exciting festivals, the Lemo Festival (4-19/10) and the Cufa Festival (3-13/10). The Free State Provincial Government (FSPG) supports these and other activities aimed at contributing to the cultural, economic, and tourism sectors of the province,” Maphalla stated.

Bishop Joshua Maponga at the launch of the Cufa Fest in Bloemfontein. Photo: Screengrab

He emphasised the importance of local events in reigniting the province’s economy, which has faced difficulties in recent years, particularly after the sale of Bloemfontein Celtics’ premiership status and the suspension of the iconic Macufe Festival due to financial challenges. 

While cleared of irregularities, the Free State MEC for sport, arts, culture, and recreation, Ntombizanele Sifuba, announced that Macufe would remain suspended.

Maphalla highlighted the significant impact that these events can have on local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, showcasing the Free State’s potential as a tourism and cultural hub. 

“The success of these events will generate substantial revenue for local businesses and provide much-needed exposure for local artists and entrepreneurs,” he added.

Media and various stakeholders were taken through the Lemo Green Park venue at the official launch of the Lemo Fest. Photo: Facebook

Free State premier, Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, echoed this sentiment, stating that festivals play a key role in unlocking the province’s full economic potential.

“Local festivals are instrumental in transforming the Free State into a premier entertainment destination where talent can thrive, communities unite, and the economy flourishes,” Letsoha-Mathae said.

Finance, tourism, and economic development MEC, Koketso Makume, also stressed the importance of showcasing the Free State as a must-visit destination, encouraging residents to explore local tourist attractions, nature reserves, and cultural sites. 

“The Free State is more than just a province to pass through,” Makume said, urging residents and visitors to support local tourism and events that highlight the unique offerings of the province.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi and Rethabile Monyane cg