Mohini Dey
Image: Facebook
The excitement is building for the 2026 Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), set to take place on March 27 and 28 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The festival has unveiled artists’ line-up, promising to reaffirm its status as Africa's grandest gathering, an internationally-renowned cultural event that appeals to jazz aficionados from around the globe.
Leading the international line-up is Grammy-winning British multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier, whose genre-defying performances and musical virtuosity have captivated audiences worldwide. He is joined by the legendary American jazz-fusion ensemble Yellowjackets, bringing decades of innovation and musical mastery to the festival stage.
Modern jazz powerhouse Yussef Dayes appears with The Yussef Dayes Experience, delivering the dynamic rhythmic energy that has earned him global acclaim. The international programme is further enriched by Malian singer-songwriter Fatoumata Diawara, Indian bass virtuoso Mohini Dey, and Indian vocalist and flautist Varijashree Venugopal, whose blend of Carnatic classical tradition and jazz introduces a unique cross-cultural dimension to the festival.
Headlining the Moses Molelekwa stage is Raveena, the Indian-American singer-songwriter celebrated for her lush fusion of R&B, jazz, and South Asian influences. Known for her ethereal vocals and immersive sonic landscapes, Raveena has built a devoted international following through emotionally-rich songwriting and captivating live performances.
Further international highlights include American percussionist and band leader SheilaE. and The E-Train, British jazz collective Nubiyan Twist, Portuguese jazz icon MariaJoão, and Russian saxophonist Igor Butman performing with the Moscow Jazz Orchestra.
South Africa’s rich musical heritage will be strongly represented by legendary pianist and composer Abdullah Ibrahim, iconic musician Sipho Mabuse, and acclaimed pianist Nduduzo Makhathini performing with An Ongoing Rehearsal Our-Ke(s)tra.
Additional South African highlights include internationally-celebrated vocalist Tutu Puoane, experimental jazz collective BCUC, bassist and composer Carlo Mombelli with Chapter 7, and acclaimed pianist Sibusiso "Mash" Mashiloane.
The festival will also showcase contemporary voices shaping the future of African music, including chart-topping amapiano duo Scorpion Kings, soulful singer Manana, genre-blending artist lordkez, vocalist Sio, and rising talents Rorisang Sechele and Jabulile Majola.
Further performances will feature Salomão Soares and Vanessa Moreno from Brazil, Seba Kaapstad, Giuliette Price, Camissa Knights, Jimmy Nevis, Luukhanyo, Jazzwrld & Thukuthela, and DJ Dwson.
The programme will also feature the CTIJF Jazz Orchestra, alongside a special Kippies Moeketsi Centenary Tribute, honouring one of South Africa’s most influential jazz pioneers. Beyond the performances, the festival continues its commitment to community upliftment and artist development through youth workshops, mentorship programmes, and educational initiatives.
Tickets are available on Ticketmaster, with buy now pay later options on Loot.
Since its inception in 2000, the CTICF has remained the largest jazz festival on the African continent, uniting global artistry, African innovation and world-class musical excellence in a celebration of culture, music and community.
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