Zambian Local artists have expressed interest in joining Bantu Batu Festival, hoping to win prizes and boost their music careers in Zambia’s growing entertainment industry.
The festival’s third edition is set to take place from May 21 to 26, 2026, at the Zambian-Italian Cultural Centre.
Bantu Batu Festival Event Director Moses Divine said the festival, organised by the Bantu Network, promotes indigenous expression and cultural exchange beyond Zambia.
“The nature of the event itself is indigenous and promotes cultural exchange, not just within Zambia but internationally,” Mr. Divine said.
He cited the drama category, where the winner is expected to receive K10,000.
“It’s a competitive festival with prizes to be won,” he said.
“Artists benefit not only from the prize money but also from the visibility they gain.”.
Meanwhile, a Lusaka-based Artist Innocent Mwanza, known by his stage name Mastermind, said the festival presents an opportunity for artists to earn and improve their performance.
Mwanza also encouraged fellow artists to register with the Bantu Network, describing the process as straightforward.
The Bantu Batu Festival is one of a growing number of platforms aimed at promoting creative talent in Zambia, with organisers positioning it as both a competitive and developmental space for artists.