…a new musical identity for the Kingdom…
…turning raw talent into a musical force…
…choir that will showcase the richness of Eswatini’s culture and musical heritage to the audience beyond the kingdom’s borders…
… from local voices to global stages…
… ENCAC to support the sound…
… creating opportunities through music…
BY NELIWE NGUBANE
EZULWINI – A new musical voice could soon rise from Eswatini as government sets its sights on developing the country’s first professionally developed Swati mass choir through the newly launched Eswatini Praise Talent Search Programme.
Speaking at the launch held at Sibane Sami Hotel, Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs representative Mzwandile Mthetfwa said the programme is not simply about finding individual singers, but about building a collective musical force capable of carrying Eswatini’s culture to the world.
Mthetfwa said the primary objective of Eswatini Praise is to identify raw talent and transform it into professionally developed artists through exposure, mentorship, training and opportunities to grow.
He said the initiative will search for exceptional voices characterised by passion, dedication and unique artistry, while creating a platform for emerging musicians to develop their craft.
At the heart of the programme is an ambitious goal – to establish Eswatini’s first professionally developed Swati mass choir.
Mthetfwa said the choir will showcase the richness of Eswatini’s culture and musical heritage to audiences beyond the Kingdom’s borders.
The vision, he explained, is to create a sound that represents the country while giving local singers an opportunity to perform on international stages.
Mthetfwa said talent, when properly nurtured, can transcend borders and open doors to international opportunities.
He believes Eswatini Praise can help position the Kingdom as a country rich in artistic talent and cultural vibrancy, while giving singers exposure, experience and recognition beyond the local music scene.
The programme will also work with the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC), whose resources and expertise are expected to strengthen the initiative.
Mthetfwa said ENCAC’s investment in studio facilities will enable the mass choir to record professionally, ensuring that the country’s talent is presented to a wider audience at a professional standard.
Beyond entertainment, Mthetfwa said the initiative has the potential to contribute to job creation, economic growth and national pride through the creative arts.
He said the partnership will promote talent identification, skills development and capacity building, while providing emerging artists with professional mentorship and training.
The programme therefore seeks to turn voices into opportunities and cultural heritage into a platform for growth.
Mthetfwa expressed optimism that the collaboration would nurture the next generation of musical talent, inspire young people to pursue their dreams and strengthen Eswatini’s cultural identity.
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