KZN International Jazz Festival, themed 'The Journey of KZN Afro Jazz Maestros,' pays tribute to the pioneers and contemporary visionaries who have shaped African jazz. This theme celebrates the genre's rhythmic and spiritual evolution, tracing its path from indigenous South African sounds and traditional Zulu influences to its fusion with international jazz standards. By spotlighting maestros: legendary icons like Bheki Mseleku, Sipho Gumede, GTX Xaba, Busi Mhlongo and Allen Khwela, alongside modern virtuosos like Dr Nduduzo Makhathini, Mbuso Khoza, Bongani Nkwanyana, Mthobisi Mthalane, Vincent Mtetwa and Dr Xolisa Dlamini.