Lauryn Hill has shared a heartfelt tribute to South Africa, posting highlights from her recent visit to Johannesburg for the DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival.
The Grammy-winning musician and rapper performed at the festival in September and has now reflected on the trip in an Instagram highlight video, describing her time in the country as “transformative and remarkable”.
Opening her caption with an apology in isiZulu – “Uxolo ngokubambezeleka” (sorry for the delay) – Hill addressed fans directly:
“Dear South Africa,
The South African people have always been a symbol of resistance, resilience, and inspiration for us. Ngiyabonga kakhulu!”
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Hill said her experience in Johannesburg went far beyond the festival stage. She spoke about “new connections” and “solidified new friendships”, thanking locals for their hospitality and singling out Ndaba Mandela and his family for their time together.
The star also highlighted how the trip helped strengthen African and diaspora-focused business partnerships, adding “siyabonga kakhulu” to those who collaborated with her team. She mentioned a merch pop-up where she was able to meet Joburg fans face to face, thanking organiser Zaid and streetwear brand Grade Africa.
Her visit also had a family and community element: Hill revealed that her daughter, Sara, visited and supported young children at a Johannesburg school during their stay.
Fashion was another strong thread in Hill’s South African adventure. She worked with two of the country’s most celebrated designers – Thebe Magugu and MaXhosa Africa.
On stage, she wore a striking custom Thebe Magugu look: a Sotho-inspired red-and-black suit with ostrich feather sleeves and an isicholo-style headpiece, featuring a print from the designer’s Mafeteng Capsule launched in September. African luxury label MaXhosa Africa dressed Hill’s backing vocalists and dancers for the show.
Looking back on her headline performance at DStv Delicious, Hill said she felt privileged to share her work with a South African audience.
“We recognize the beautiful art and music coming out of South Africa and consider it a blessing to be able to share our art with you,” she wrote.
Closing her message with a final note of gratitude, she added:
“Ngiyabonga Jozi! Thank you for the warmth, the spirit, and the love. Love, light, and ubuntu forever. 🔥❤️🇿🇦 Izandla zidlula ikhanda Mzansi.”
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Featured Image: Instagram | mslaurynhill
