BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA (INTERN)
MBABANE – The Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) has officially unveiled the committees that will oversee the implementation of the National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) 2026, bringing together experienced industry professionals, cultural leaders and creative sector experts to strengthen the country’s premier arts awards programme.
The announcement was made during the official launch of NACA 2026 by ENCAC Chief Executive Officer Stanley Dlamini, who introduced specialised committees responsible for adjudication, event production, resource mobilisation and the National Music Development Programme.
Dlamini said the move demonstrates ENCAC’s commitment to ensuring that the awards maintain credibility, transparency and professionalism. He explained that publicly introducing members of the awards structures, particularly the adjudication team, is aimed at strengthening trust within the creative sector. The Adjudication Sub-Committee will oversee nominations, judging processes, category compliance, voting integrity and quality assurance. It includes Thami “Pastor Bae” Ndlovu, Ndumiso Dlamini, Mduduzi “Mdura” Dlamini and Nontsika Lukhele.
The Eventing and Production Sub-Committee, responsible for regional festivals, activations, production logistics and the National Awards Finale, consists of Mbekezeli “Culolam” Dlamini, Sicelo “Mix Mash” Mashwama, Thandeka Msibi, Sithembiso “Toothless” Magagula and Sihle Gumbi. Meanwhile, the Resource Mobilisation Sub-Committee, made up of Lindelwa Mafa, Dr. Shakes, Fakazi Samuel and Allen “DJ Wicked” Stewart, will focus on sponsorships, stakeholder engagement, fundraising and partnerships to support the sustainability of NACA 2026.
Under the leadership of NACA Chairperson Thamsanqa “KrTC” Sibandze, the awards are also placing focus on developing the creative industry beyond recognition. This year’s theme, “From Recognition to Industry Development,” highlights the goal of using arts and culture as a driver for economic growth, social progress and opportunities for creatives.
Sibandze has encouraged artists, cultural groups, content creators, photographers, fashion designers, schools and other arts practitioners to submit nominations, saying the platform belongs to the creative community. ENCAC CEO Stanley Dlamini added that participation in the awards will help develop more industry professionals through initiatives such as the Eswatini National Music Development Programme.
Nomination deadlines have been announced, with Lubombo closing on 15 July 2026, Shiselweni on 28 July 2026, Hhohho on 5 August 2026, and Manzini on 10 August 2026. As preparations continue, ENCAC says NACA 2026 aims to celebrate artistic excellence while strengthening Eswatini’s creative economy and creating more opportunities for artists nationwide.
#NACA2026 #FromRecognitionToIndustryDevelopment #ENCAC #NationalArtsAndCultureAwards #EswatiniArts #EswatiniCulture #CreativeIndustry #SwatiCreatives #SupportLocalArtists #ArtsForDevelopment #CelebratingTalent
(Courtesy Pic)
