The return of MACUFE (3–7 September 2025) is a clear demonstration of a political will to make use of this popular cultural festival as an enabler of economic growth, including the continuation of the September Tourism Month, writes Khulu Radebe.
Through coordinated leadership from the Premier, MECs for Sport, Arts & Culture, DESTEA and Treasury, the Mangaung Metro Municipality, and private partners, government is deliberately positioning culture and sport as economic drivers.
Past impact studies show MACUFE injects more than R90 million in visitor spend into Mangaung’s economy, creating opportunities for SMMEs, township tourism, and temporary jobs.
This year’s recalibrated programme emphasises local beneficiation, ensuring vendors, arts crafters, and township-based enterprises such as car washes access real economic benefits.
The cherry on top was the timing of the game between South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, and Lesotho’s national team for a World Cup qualifier on Friday, the 5th of September, which drew national and regional crowds, boosted accommodation, hospitality and informal trading. Just as importantly, it reawakened the undying spirit of Siwelele Sa Masele, reconnecting Bloemfontein’s football culture and sports identity to the city’s social and economic life.
In short, MACUFE 2025 enhanced by international football, reflects government’s active role as a market enabler, lowering barriers, crowding in private capital, and unlocking broad-based community benefits.
*Khulu Radebe is the President of Free State Liquor Traders Association. He writes in his personal capacity.
