Prime Minister Russell Dlamini reaffirmed government’s belief in arts and culture as a major economic driver.
Delivering the PM’s message, Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development Sikhumbuzo Dlamini said the sector held the potential to become the country’s biggest GDP performer.
He conveyed the PM’s honour in joining the nation to celebrate its stars, the heroes and heroines of gospel music excellence. He noted that the evening’s performances were a vivid reminder of Eswatini’s artistic depth and rich spiritual heritage.
“His Majesty’s Government believes that the arts and culture sector can and is the biggest performer in the GDP of this country, hence the desire to professionalise it,” he said.
“Government is putting strategies and policies in place to ensure that the sector becomes a vibrant player in the country’s economic pillars.”
The PM applauded the nation’s overwhelming participation in the nomination and voting processes, highlighting grassroots development and mass involvement from all regions.
“Our artists continue to excel in global and continental spaces and the region fears the presence of our artists.
“No matter how small our country is, we boast big and respected names in the region and beyond,” he said.
He celebrated notable international achievers, including Best of Africa Mpumalanga recipients Nothando Dlamini and Sphiwo Ndoni Ndlangamandla, along with SABC Crown Gospel Music Awards winners Nduduzo Matse and Bakhe Dlamini.
Nothando sweeps the floor at National Gospel Music Awards
GOSPEL musician Nothando Hlophe stole the spotlight at the 2025 National Gospel Music Awards by winning the most coveted honours: Best Gospel Artist, Best Gospel Song of the Year, and Best Gospel Live Recording.
Held on Saturday evening, Hlophe emerged as the standout artist and her achievements were capped off with a E20 000 award presented by Prime Minister Russell Dlamini in recognition of her truimph at the 2025 Crown Gospel Music Awards.
Dressed in a sparkling light green dress that matched her radiant smile, Hlophe beamed with joy as she received each accolade. The crowd’s enthusiasm reached fever pitch every time she took the stage, erupting in song with her beloved masterpiece, ‘Methodist Medley’, a song that ignited cheers and sing-alongs throughout.
Reflecting on her success, Hlophe emphasised the hard work behind the scenes. “These awards mean a lot to me,” she said, “not just as recognition of my previous projects, but as a testament to the teamwork with partners like Eswatini Mobile and Ekucaleni Media. This proves that dedication and collaboration truly pay off.”
She expressed optimism for her newly-released album, ‘The New Dawn’ album, confident it will earn similar acclaim.
Hlophe also offered encouragement to aspiring gospel artists, urging them to stay focused and set clear goals. “The journey isn’t easy,” she admitted, “but with determination and a supportive circle that recognises your talents, success is achievable.”
Beyond personal triumph, she voiced a call for unity and growth within the nation’s gospel music community.
“We need workshops where artists can come together with industry leaders to share insights, motivate each other, and navigate the challenges we face, not only in music but in events like this,” she said. Hlophe said she believed that the country was embracing the Nkwe! mandate, moving steadily toward international standards.
