The is entering a bold new era. At an exclusive launch attended by sponsors, stakeholders, partners and members of the media, the iconic festival officially unveiled its ambitious vision for 2027 — and it’s far bigger than anyone expected.
For the first time in its history, the CTIJF will stretch beyond its traditional weekend format and evolve into a month-long cultural takeover across Cape Town throughout March 2027. The move signals a major shift for one of Africa’s most celebrated music festivals, transforming it into a city-wide celebration of music, art, culture and creativity.
The evening also paid tribute to the late South African jazz legend Abdullah Ibrahim, honouring his immeasurable contribution to jazz and the country’s cultural identity. Providing the soundtrack for the launch was the South African Jazz Trio — Damian Kamineth, Keegan Steenkamp and Rouxne Schutte — while Heineken kept the atmosphere flowing.
For more than two decades, the CTIJF has stood as one of Africa’s premier cultural gatherings. Since launching in 2000, the festival has become more than just a live music experience — it has grown into a platform for cultural exchange, artistic development, community engagement and global collaboration through workshops, masterclasses and curated experiences.
Its legacy is reflected in the calibre of artists who have graced its stages over the years, including Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, Herbie Hancock, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Earth, Wind & Fire, Lira, Black Coffee and Thandiswa Mazwai.
Now, the next chapter promises an even bigger cultural footprint. The 24th edition of the festival will activate multiple public, cultural and community spaces across Cape Town and surrounding areas, creating deeper engagement with local communities while opening the festival up to wider audiences.
The month-long rollout is expected to include live performances, educational programmes, cultural activations, industry networking opportunities and community-driven experiences designed to celebrate the spirit and diversity of the Mother City.
“Last night, the CTIJF’s future was defined,” said Rayhaan Survé, Chairman of the Survé Family Office. “It’s a future rooted in legacy and deeply personal, having quite literally grown up with the festival. From legends like Uncle Abdullah Ibrahim and Hugh Masekela to rising stars like Zoë Modiga and Bongeziwe Mabandla, we remain the premier platform showcasing both the legacy and future of our nation.”
CTIJF Co-Director Georgia Jones described the expansion as “The Month of the Mother City,” adding that the vision is to bring every corner of Cape Town alive through a celebration that unites communities, stimulates the local economy and places African excellence on a global stage.
Co-Director Carolyn Savage also highlighted the importance of the festival’s partnerships and sponsors in shaping this next phase, noting that the expanded format opens up new opportunities for brands to engage with audiences in meaningful and culturally impactful ways.
Further details surrounding the 2027 programme, artist announcements and ticketing information are expected to roll out in the coming months.
