BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MANZINI – Lights, leadership and a leap of faith moved The George Hotel as Eswatini unveiled the National Gospel Music Awards (NGMA) 2025 in spectacular fashion on Thursday night.
The stylish dinner launch officially opened nominations and marked a fresh chapter for the gospel music industry.
Members of Parliament, Cabinet Ministers, artists, stakeholders and music lovers came dressed in glamorous formal and cultural attire, blending faith and fashion with purpose.
In a key moment, Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture CEO Stanley Dlamini announced the rebranding of the gospel music sector. He revealed that a newly appointed task team, now under the leadership of award-winning gospel star Sphiwo Ndoni, would steer the NGMA.
Taking to the stage with a soulful opening performance, Ndoni, now President of the NGMA, set the tone for the evening. Arts administrator Nathi Mhlanga later introduced the full task team to a roaring round of applause.
“This launch is more than a date on the calendar,” said Honourable Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima.
“It is a milestone in the journey of Eswatini’s creative sector. The NGMA marks a resurgence of purpose, a celebration of excellence, and a renewed commitment to empowering talent.”
The official logo and trophy for the NGMA 2025 were also unveiled, building anticipation for the main awards night on November 8, 2025, at Esibayeni lodge.
“This is a breakthrough for Eswatini,” said the minister. “We are proud to announce that nominations are now open and available to all gospel artists across the country, regardless of affiliation. We urge everyone to participate.”
The event also featured heartfelt speeches from key stakeholders and partners, including a passionate call for support from Chairperson Nathi Nkambule.
“Gospel music is not only a spiritual plartform; it’s an industry with power and purpose,” Nkambule said. “We’re not just organising an awards show – we’re building a legacy.”
The nomination process closes on August 25, 2025, and voting details will be released soon.
