The globally renowned Montreux Jazz Festival opened its first African edition on Friday, set against the vineyard-covered landscapes of the Franschhoek Valley in the Cape winelands.
While the festival’s historic home remains in Switzerland, it has steadily expanded through licensed editions and collaborations in cities including Tokyo, Miami, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Suzhou. The South African debut marks a significant step in its global footprint, introducing a distinctly African cultural dimension.
A Fusion of Music and Culture
Co-organiser James Stewart described the event as a blend of “world-class music with the cultural richness” of the Franschhoek Valley highlighting its food, wine, scenery, and local community.
More than 30 artists are featured across the three-day programme, combining international icons and African talent. Performers include Malian legend Salif Keita and South African star Thandiswa Mazwai.
Organisers expect around 5,000 attendees per day, with capacity intentionally capped to maintain a premium, immersive experience. Plans are already underway to establish the festival as an annual fixture.
The main Arches Stage has been set near a monument honouring the French Huguenots, who settled in the Cape in 1688 linking the festival symbolically to its European origins.
Clash with Cape Town’s Established Festival
However, the debut has drawn criticism due to a scheduling overlap with the long-established Cape Town International Jazz Festival, taking place the same weekend just 80 kilometres away in Cape Town.
Now in its 26th year, the Cape Town festival is one of Africa’s largest music events, expecting over 30,000 attendees. This year’s lineup includes celebrated pianist Abdullah Ibrahim, alongside a legacy shaped by icons such as Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba.
Rayhaan Surve, chairman of organiser espAfrika, criticised the timing, calling it “disappointing” and warning that it divides audiences and industry resources.
“We’re not the newcomers. To come and do that on the same weekend speaks to something that is very harmful for the industry,” he said.
Industry Implications
The overlap highlights growing competition within Africa’s live music sector, as international brands expand into the continent while local festivals seek to protect their established audiences.
Despite the tension, the Montreux Jazz Festival’s African debut signals increasing global interest in Africa’s music and cultural landscape positioning the region as a key destination for major international events.
