BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE – The Government of Eswatini has once again demonstrated its commitment to nurturing arts and culture by honouring local choirs and musicians who have proudly represented the Kingdom on international stages, bringing home prestigious accolades.
In a celebratory ceremony led by the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, outstanding choirs that represented Eswatini at the Tiro Mpane Regional Music Competition held in Sun City, South Africa, were rewarded for their exceptional performances and achievements.
Leading the honours was His Majesty’s Correctional Services Choir, which clinched first place in the Great Champions category at the Tiro Mpane Final Competitions held on December 20–21, 2025. In recognition of this remarkable achievement, the choir received E20 000 from the Ministry.
The Pure Voices Choir, winners of the Standard category, were awarded E10 000 for their stellar performance, while the Mbabane Methodist Church Choir, which secured third place in the Large category, received E5 000. Collectively, the choirs received E35 000, underscoring government’s appreciation of excellence in the creative sector.
The celebrations also extended beyond choral music. Gospel musician Sphiwo Ndoni was honoured with E20 000 after winning Best of Africa Song of the Year at the Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards for his powerful song “Insindiso Iyangisebenzela.” His achievement further cemented Eswatini’s presence on the continental music scene.
Speaking through the gesture, the Ministry highlighted that recognising and rewarding talent is a vital part of motivating artists and promoting Eswatini’s cultural heritage beyond its borders. The Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Honourable Bongani Nzima, personally presented the awards, applauding the artists for their discipline, dedication and patriotism.
An additional appreciation event was held in honour of His Majesty’s Correctional Services Choir, attended by choir committee members, Pure Voices Choir, and the Mbabane Methodist Church Choir. The gathering celebrated the collective success of the choirs at the Tiro Mpane Foundation National Choral Eisteddfod Grand Finale, with heartfelt words of gratitude extended to the Minister for his continued support of the arts.
This initiative has been widely welcomed as a positive step that affirms government’s recognition of creative excellence. By celebrating artists who fly the country’s flag high, Eswatini continues to inspire young talent, strengthen cultural pride, and position itself as a force in African music and arts.
