From Tsakane to the world | Afro Tech takes centre stage at ‘What Is Afro Nation?’

What began as a modest gathering at a grill café in Tsakane, east of Johannesburg, has evolved into a dynamic cultural movement — one that celebrates rhythm, roots, and reinvention. Today, What Is Afro Nation? (WIA) stands as a powerful platform for Afro tech enthusiasts, a space where the genre’s pulse is not just heard but deeply felt.

Founded in March 2024 by Vusi Mabena and Xolani “DJ Fede” Mathebula, WIA was born from a shared desire to create more than entertainment. Their vision was to curate a space where music, culture, and community intersect. From its early days in the township to its current stage at some of Johannesburg’s most vibrant venues, the journey has been one of faith, resilience, and rhythm.

YNews caught up with the duo at the 10th installment of WIA, hosted at the 4Ways Farmers Market — an idyllic setting perfectly matched for the event’s outdoor, rustic aesthetic and free-spirited soundscape. The air buzzed with anticipation as dancers and dreamers gathered beneath the spring sky, soulful electronic beats filled the air.

Reflecting on their journey, Mabena admitted the road to recognition wasn’t always smooth.

“The reception from the people was a bit challenging at first especially from our hometown where other music genres have dominated the space, you’d find that events similar to this are exclusive and only catered for a selective,” said Mabena.

But ten events in, the vision is evolving — expanding geographically and spiritually. WIA is now taking Afro tech deeper into the townships, bringing the sound home to communities that have long carried its rhythm in their hearts.

“Because of we’ve done 10th installation, it gives a different view and perspective where we’re now starting to go out and market ourselves different spaces where we even meet and engage with different collaborators,” added Mabena.

For artists, WIA represents both a stage and a sanctuary. Flex Audionative, whose hypnotic set drew cheers from the crowd, praised the platform for keeping Afro tech alive in an ever-shifting music landscape.

“For us to revive such concepts or such music at platforms like this is very important because it offers artists a chance to introduce new music and fulfil the edge of the music for those that understand and get the sound,” he said.

He also commended the founders for their dedication to keeping the genre pure and intentional.

“For the guys (Mabena and DJ Fede) to host such a strict genre and be specific in their direct approach that they are doing Afro tech – I had people here who didn’t understand but throughout my set they caught on. So, I see this event being the voice and face of the culture,” Flex Audionative added.

Beyond the decks and dance floors, What Is Afro Nation? is a love letter to Afro tech — written in basslines, soul, and community spirit. It’s a reminder of what can happen when creativity is rooted in purpose — and when music becomes a medium for connection, identity, and collective joy.

For Mabena, DJ Fede, and the ever-growing WIA community, this is just the beginning. What Is Afro Nation? is no longer a question — it’s a movement in motion.

A big big Thank You to The #4WaysFarmersMarket management, @WhatIsAfro 10 Mini Team, Cast and You who joined us.#WIA_NATION 10 was amazing, see you soon
“Music Journey Series” (c) pic.twitter.com/zKI8JG00Xr

— WhatIsAfro (@WhatIsAfro) October 7, 2025

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe