Eighteen years on, Macufe has firmly established itself as one of South Africa's premier music and cultural festivals. Kicking off with a colourful street carnival, the 10-day event culminated in a live music concert headlined by the likes of Grammy Award-nominated international artist Tamia.Showcasing performers from award-winning US R&B artist Anthony Hamilton to Nigerian musician Flavour and South Africa's very own legends, Hugh Masekela and Jimmy Dludlu, this year's event was a blast.The festival has grown from an audience of 30000 in 1997 to 140000 fans this year, generating more than R1-billion in revenue.The divas' concert was a hit with the fans as established Afro-pop award-winning queens Lira and Thandiswa Mazwai and Khona hit-makers Mafikizolo delivered the goods.It was not just about celebrity musicians and fashionistas. In an attempt to balance high-profile, big money-generating performances with smaller events to boost local entertainers and the province's economy, the festival included outdoor markets for crafters, comedy and cultural shows.Entertainers who have emerged from early exposure at Macufe include hip-hop DJ Shaxe Khumalo, gospel artist Teboho Moloi and songstress Maleh...