Founded in 2004, Moshito is dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration and growth in the African music world.
South African music icon Bheki 'Ihasi Elimhlofe' Ngcobo was announced on Monday as the ambassadors for this year's Mosito Music Conference and Exhibition, along with hip-hop artist Nadia Nakai.
“I am proud to be an ambassador for this event that celebrates and preserves our rich cultural heritage,” said Ihash Elimlov.
Founded in 2004, Mosito is a four-day event dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration and growth in African music.
The appointment as ambassador caps off an eventful year for Ihasi Elimkhlov. Just a few weeks ago, he gave a mesmerizing performance as one of the headline acts at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz.
In August, Ihashi Elimkhlov celebrated his 40th wedding anniversary with his wife Lina Ngcobo, and this year he marked his 45th anniversary in the music industry. Last year, the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) presented him with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
“I think it’s all about respect,” Ihash Elimlov said. The Citizen at that time. “Respecting myself, my work, and the people I work with has gotten me this far.”
Ihash Elimkhlov is one of the country's well-known Maskandi artists, with an extensive catalog that includes his 1986 debut album. Hororo;He has traveled the world sharing his music with fans of his traditional sound. He has also collaborated with young artists such as Boom Shaka and Oskido.
Related article: Ihash Elimkhlov talks about Joy of Jazz's debut and 40 years of marriage
Fusion of modernity and tradition
Mosito Music Conference and Exhibition Chairman Stanley Khoza said the two ambassadors symbolize the fusion of modernity and tradition.
“Nadia's global influence in hip-hop and Ihashi's dedication to preserving traditional African sounds reflect the core of what Mosito stands for. Their voices will be featured in discussions and performances at this year's conference. and help us navigate the future of African music.”
Moshito serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, industry insights, and cultural celebrations, attracting music professionals, artists, and enthusiasts from around the world.
Ihash Elimkhlov sees Mosito not just as a meeting, but as a movement.
“As we embrace new technologies and trends, it is important to ensure that African stories and sounds continue to thrive,” he said.
For Nadia, becoming an ambassador presents an opportunity to guide the future of African music.
“This platform aims to push boundaries and give African artists the space to explore new opportunities while staying true to our roots,” she said.
“I am excited to be part of the conversation that will guide the future of African music.”
In recent years, the rise of streaming platforms, artificial intelligence in music production, and the monetization of online music have created both new opportunities and challenges for African artists.
This conference will address these issues through panel discussions, workshops, and performances by experts in the field.
The first day of Mosito will feature conference sessions and workshops, ending in the evening with the Mosito Gospel Festival, organized by SAMPRA.
There will be industry panels and artist showcases, and later that evening Mosito will host the Mosito Afro World Night Signature Festival, hosted by DSAC.
On the last day of the festival, the Mosito Street Festival will be held on Constitution Hill.
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