The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) has officially revealed the full artist line-up for its 2026 edition, taking place on March 27 and 28 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). This year’s programme brings together global innovators, South African legends, and rising stars, reaffirming the CTIJF’s reputation as Africa’s Grandest Gathering and one of the continent’s most anticipated cultural events.
Leading the international line-up is Grammy-winning British multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier, whose genre-defying performances and musical virtuosity have captivated audiences worldwide, as seen in his Wikipedia profile. He is joined by the legendary American jazz-fusion ensemble Yellowjackets, bringing decades of innovation and musical mastery to the festival stage.
International Highlights
Modern jazz powerhouse Yussef Dayes appears with The Yussef Dayes Experience, delivering the dynamic rhythmic energy that has earned him global acclaim. The international programme is further enriched by Malian singer-songwriter Fatoumata Diawara, Indian bass virtuoso Mohini Dey, and Indian vocalist and flautist Varijashree Venugopal, whose blend of Carnatic classical tradition and jazz introduces a unique cross-cultural dimension to the festival.
South African Legends
South Africa’s rich musical heritage will be strongly represented by legendary pianist and composer Abdullah Ibrahim, iconic musician Sipho’s Mabuse, and acclaimed pianist Nduduzo Makhathini performing with “An Ongoing Rehearsal Our-Ke(s)tra”. Additional South African highlights include internationally celebrated vocalist Tutu Puoane, experimental jazz collective BCUC, bassist and composer Carlo Mombelli with Chapter 7, and acclaimed pianist Sibusiso “Mash” Mashiloane.
The festival will also showcase contemporary voices shaping the future of African music, including chart-topping amapiano duo Scorpion Kings, soulful singer Manana, genre-blending artist lordkez, vocalist Sio, and rising talents Rorisang Sechele and Jabulile Majola. Other notable performances will feature Salomão Soares and Vanessa Moreno from Brazil, Seba Kaapstad, Giuliette Price, Camissa Knights, Jimmy Nevis, Luukhanyo, Jazzwrld & Thukuthela, and DJ Dwson.
For more information on the CTIJF, visit the Cape Town International Convention Centre website to plan your attendance at this world-class event.
- Jacob Collier
- Yellowjackets
- Yussef Dayes
- Fatoumata Diawara
- Mohini Dey
- Varijashree Venugopal
