NACA AWARDS SET FOR 28 NOVEMBER AS CREATIVES PREPARE FOR BIG NIGHT

BY PHUMELELE GAMEDZE

MANZINI – Eswatini’s creative industry is gearing up for the second National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA), scheduled for November 28, 2026 at Esibayeni Lodge, as organisers call for continued public support and healthy competition among local artists.

The announcement was made during a media briefing held at Manzini Art Studio on October 26, 2026, where organisers outlined plans for the upcoming ceremony and emphasised the importance of recognising and celebrating talent across the kingdom’s creative industry.

NACA Awards chairman Thamsanqa “KrTC” Sibandze expressed gratitude to the public for supporting local creatives, urging Emaswati to continue showing appreciation for artists whose work contributes to the country’s entertainment and cultural landscape.

The awards provide a platform to recognise creative excellence while shining a spotlight on individuals who continue to shape and develop Eswatini’s music and arts scene.

Beyond the excitement of nominations and recognition, however, the briefing highlighted the importance of unity and sportsmanship within the creative community.

Former NACA Awards chairman Sipho “Big Fish” Makhabane encouraged artists to view the awards as an opportunity to challenge themselves and improve their craft, rather than allowing competition to create hostility among colleagues.

“We are not competing as artists; let’s not be enemies because of a competition, but a good competition is saying I want to beat this one being creative as an artist,” he said.

His remarks underscored the value of healthy rivalry in inspiring musicians to push creative boundaries, refine their skills and strive for excellence without allowing professional competition to develop into personal conflict.

The briefing also showcased the entertainment that lies at the heart of the awards. Sibandze, who served as programme director for the gathering, also took on entertainment duties, demonstrating that his leadership role has not distanced him from his roots as a rapper.

Musician Ntando Ngcamphalala also contributed to the programme, delivering musical entertainment that added energy to the gathering.

The performances offered a glimpse of the talent and creativity the awards seek to celebrate, with music serving as a common thread connecting artists, organisers and audiences.

As the countdown to November 28, 2026 begins, the second edition of the NACA Awards is expected to provide an important platform for recognising artistic achievements, encouraging originality and strengthening appreciation for Eswatini’s arts and culture.

The ceremony will take place at Esibayeni Lodge, bringing together members of the creative industry and other stakeholders to celebrate local talent and the contribution of the arts to the kingdom’s cultural identity.