The story of Africa’s heritage, pioneering spirit and enduring creativity unfolds tastefully and fashionable in Eswatini this August. We want you to help tell it!
Media Accreditation applications are now open for the 8th edition of the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival taking place on 1 and 2 August 2026 at House On Fire in Malkerns, Eswatini.
This year, Luju takes centre stage across two full weekend days for the very first time, with an anticipated attendance of over 12,000from across the continent and beyond. Guided by the festival’s philosophy, “A Return to the African Future”, the 2026 edition promises a feast of culinary storytelling through the Nguni Foodways theme, a fashion runway show and dress code steeped in African oral tradition under the Kwasukasukela fashion theme, a world-class lineup of Pan-African music, and experiential zones that celebrate the sophistication, creativity and heritage of the continent.
If your work lives at the intersection of food, fashion, culture and African identity, this is the story of the year.
Who Should Apply?
Luju welcomes applications from journalists, photographers, videographers and content creators from established and reputable media houses, including:
- National, regional and international newspapers and magazines
- Radio and television stations and networks
- Relevant online publications and digital platforms
- Travel, food and fashion writers and bloggers
What Accredited Media Can Access
Accredited media will be able to attend media press conferences, request interviews with artists, and gain access to front of stage for photos and short videos. Media Accreditation also offers access to the dedicated Media Hive, equipped with power and wireless internet serves as the festival’s centre for media information and interviews, and journalists are encouraged to make full use of it.
How to Apply
Applications are made exclusively through the Media Accreditation page at www.lujufestival.com/media-accreditation.
All applicants are required to complete a media form from the Kingdom of Eswatini’s Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) before accreditation can be confirmed. Full instructions and the application form are available on the accreditation page.
Spaces are limited and final selections are made at the festival’s discretion. Media Accreditation applications will close on Sunday 12 July, 2026. Apply as early as possible.
Important Notes
- Media accreditation does not include travel or accommodation unless specifically pre-arranged with the festival.
- Nearby accommodation fills up quickly. Journalists Media are encouraged to book lodgings as soon as possible.
The Stage is Set. The Story is Yours to Shape.
Luju 2026 is more than a festival, it is a living, breathing expression of where Africa has been and where it is going. We look forward to welcoming the region’s finest storytellers to uncover it.
Apply now at www.lujufestival.com/media-accreditation
Please direct all media queries to communications@house-on-fire.com.
N.B: Due to the volume of applications, only successful applicants will be contacted by 17 July, 2026.
Come ready to #EatSwayLove and to tell the story of Africa’s most exciting cultural weekend.
