SANCHEZIEY TAKES ESWATINI’S CULTURAL STORIES TO METRO FM

By Nonophile Khumalo

MBABANE – Eswatini musician Sancheziey is reaching a wider audience after his song Siyabonga Gogo received airplay on South African radio station Metro FM, marking a significant milestone in his musical journey.

The achievement gives the local artist an opportunity to introduce his sound to listeners beyond the Kingdom while showcasing Eswatini’s cultural identity through music.

Born Mkhuleko Mangwe, Sancheziey views the exposure as an important step towards growing his profile and demonstrating the potential of the country’s music industry.

“Having my music played on Metro FM means a lot to me. It motivates me to keep pushing and believing in my work,” he said.

His song, Siyabonga Gogo, pays tribute to grandmothers and their invaluable contribution to family life. It celebrates their role in preserving traditions, sharing wisdom and passing cultural values from one generation to the next.

Rooted in experiences familiar to many emaSwati families, the song carries a message of gratitude and respect that extends beyond national borders, connecting with audiences through shared family values and cultural appreciation.

For Sancheziey, the opportunity to reach listeners on a regional platform is also about representing his country and ensuring that Eswatini’s stories are heard beyond its borders.

“I want people to hear our stories and see the talent we have in Eswatini,” he said.

The musician continues to shape his artistic identity through projects that blend contemporary sounds with cultural influences. His nine-track album, uMntfwana weLive, released in August 2026, forms part of his efforts to establish a stronger presence in the music industry.

His growing regional visibility also highlights the connection between music, cultural heritage and tourism. Through their lyrics, language and sound, local musicians can introduce new audiences to Eswatini’s traditions, experiences and creative talent, complementing the country’s broader destination marketing efforts.

Increased exposure can also open doors to regional collaborations, live performances and entertainment events that attract audiences from Eswatini and neighbouring countries. Such activities have the potential to support tourism-related businesses, including accommodation providers, restaurants and transport operators.

As he builds on this milestone, Sancheziey remains focused on growing his career while staying connected to the cultural roots that inspire his music.

“My goal is to grow as an artist and take Eswatini’s music to a bigger audience,” he said.

His achievement underscores the potential of music as a vehicle for cultural expression and regional recognition, demonstrating how stories rooted in Eswatini’s identity can reach new audiences and contribute to the growing visibility of the Kingdom’s creative industry.