- AMA Fest UK 2025 has been cancelled due to financial constraints.
- The festival was scheduled for 27 September at Bygrave Woods, Hertfordshire.
- South African artists lose a major international performance and income stream.
- Refunds will be issued, but organisers vow the festival will return.
South African Artists Face a Major Blow
Mzansi entertainers are reeling after the cancellation of AMA Fest UK 2025, a festival that has become one of the biggest international platforms for South African Amapiano and Afro-house music.
The event, which was set to take place on 27 September at Bygrave Woods in Hertfordshire, was called off due to insurmountable financial constraints. For many artists, AMA Fest was more than just a gig, it was a vital source of income and an opportunity to connect with the Southern African diaspora in the United Kingdom.
Financial Impact on Artists
South African stars performing at AMA Fest typically earn upwards of R70 000 per booking, excluding flights and accommodation. With this year’s cancellation, the loss is not only personal but also economic.
Artist manager and promoter Michael Mashile stressed the wider impact:
“Overseas bookings are not just about the artists. They create employment for staff, crews and teams, while also contributing to the foreign exchange economy. This cancellation is a great loss.”
Some artists may face complications around deposits, cancelled flights, and lost opportunities to engage with new audiences.
Organisers Cite Rising Costs
Organisers admitted that soaring infrastructure, artist, and logistics costs left them unable to secure the necessary budget. The event had already been pushed from July to September to allow more time to raise funds.
In a statement, organisers said:
AMA Fest launched in 2021 and quickly became a cultural hub, hosting over 10 000 guests by 2023. Ticket prices this year ranged from £35 to £279 (R830 – R4900), with a star-studded line-up including Zee Nxumalo, Vigro Deep, DJ Stokie, and 2wo Bunnies.
Artists React to the Cancellation
Zee Nxumalo expressed her disappointment:
“The UK loves our music. I was looking forward to it, but it’s okay.”
Fellow artist Toss told said:
“International gigs are essential for connecting with Africans overseas. It keeps them up to date with what we do. It’s also so great for them to see us in real life.”
Future of AMA Fest UK
Despite the setback, organisers insist AMA Fest will rise again:
“Culture, struggle, and love are the foundations of movements that endure.”
Ticket refunds are being processed, though organisers encouraged fans to hold onto their tickets to support the festival’s future.
For now, AMA Fest’s absence leaves a significant gap in the cultural and financial ecosystem of Amapiano’s global growth.