BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MBABANE – Eswatini gospel songwriter and recording artist Phetsile Masilela has reached a major career milestone after her original composition, Umus’ongaka, became one of the standout moments at the Spirit of Praise 12 live recording held at the sold-out SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa, on July 18, 2026.
The powerful worship song was ministered by renowned South African gospel artist Mpumi Mtsweni before thousands of worshippers, earning praise for its moving message and spiritual depth. While Masilela did not perform during the live recording, her work as the song’s writer and composer took centre stage, marking a significant achievement for both her career and Eswatini’s gospel music industry.
Speaking on the milestone, Masilela described the experience as both emotional and rewarding.
“Seeing Umus’ongaka ministered on the Spirit of Praise 12 platform is a deeply humbling and emotional moment for me. I wrote this song from a place of worship, with the desire to glorify God and encourage people to trust in His greatness. To witness it touching thousands of lives through this incredible platform is a testimony that when God gives you a song, He also prepares the audience for it,” she said.
She also expressed gratitude to Spirit of Praise, gospel minister Mpumi Mtsweni and everyone who has supported the song since the second version featuring Nothando Dlamini was released in 2022.
“I also appreciate Spirit of Praise management for doing the right thing and reaching out to me before the recording, which opened a platform for integrity and honesty. I pray that Umus’ongaka continues to inspire hope, strengthen faith, and remind people that there is no one greater than our God,” she added.
The recognition gives full acknowledgement to Masilela as the original writer and composer of Umus’ongaka, highlighting the vital role songwriters play in creating music that resonates with audiences across the continent.
The feature on one of Africa’s most influential gospel music platforms also places Eswatini’s songwriting talent in the spotlight, demonstrating the Kingdom’s growing influence in the regional music industry.
Beyond celebrating Masilela’s creative gift, the achievement is expected to open doors for new collaborations, industry partnerships and wider exposure as audiences eagerly await the official release of Spirit of Praise 12.
For Eswatini’s gospel fraternity, the success of Umus’ongaka stands as another proud moment, proving that local creatives continue to make a meaningful impact on Africa’s biggest stages.
(Courtesy Pic)
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