The Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB) joined hands with the royal house on the 13 of September to celebrate the 19th Mpondo Culture & Heritage Festival at Matshona Village in Ntabankulu. The partnership placed a spotlight on preserving culture and promoting responsible drinking.
WHAT HAPPENED
The Mpondo Culture & Heritage Festival has become one of the Eastern Cape’s leading cultural events, identified music, dance, and traditions that define Mpondoland. This year’s event reflected on the importance of cultural pride while also addressing community concerns around alcohol abuse.
The ECLB’s involvement reinforced its dual mission: to safeguard liquor regulations while encouraging safe and responsible consumption.
OFFICIAL RESPONSE
The Board emphasised that its partnership with the royal house goes beyond regulation — it is also about community education. “By working with traditional leaders, we can balance cultural celebration with the promotion of responsibility,” the ECLB stated.
The festival also set the stage for a major milestone. Next year will mark the 20th anniversary since the event’s founding.
COMMUNITY REACTIONS
Residents and visitors welcomed the collaboration, saying it allowed them to enjoy heritage celebrations in a safer environment. Local leaders praised the initiative as a model for how government entities can engage communities while respecting traditions.
