NKANGALA – The 2026 Nkangala Arts and Music Awards (NkAMA) has entered the next stage of preparations following the release of its list of nominees, with artists from across the district set to compete for honours in various music, dance and visual arts categories.
The announcement of the nominees marks a key milestone ahead of NkAMA, which will be held over two nights, 11 and 12 September 2026, at the Sydney Choma Banquet Hall in Middelburg. The first night will celebrate excellence in visual arts and performance arts, while also honouring living legends and paying tribute to artists who passed away without receiving the recognition they deserved. The second night will culminate in a major music celebration, where winners across the music categories will be announced and honoured. The awards, proudly presented by the Nkangala District Municipality in partnership with Highveld Chronicle, continue to recognise and celebrate artists, performers and creatives who are making a meaningful impact across the district and beyond.
The 2026 entertainment line-up will feature award-winning musician Sjava, 2020 Idols SA winner Zama, DJ Mami, and award-winning radio presenter and gospel artist Bathabile Skhosana with others still to be added.
In the Best Afro Pop category, nominees include Envoy SA, Senzsation, Mind Voice Production, Brandon Dhe, Abahlanyeli Bengoma and Buhlebendabuko, showcasing a vibrant mix of artists who continue to contribute to the growth of Afro Pop music in Nkangala.
The Best Amapiano category features DonSolo Afrika, Mculo Wama 2K, Senzsation, Dree de Percussionist, Gabisto, Pediboy and Yooh Kwenzakalani, reflecting the continued popularity of the genre among local audiences.
Competing in the Best Gospel category are Mandlethu Gospel Singers, Pastor Wish, Enhle Mthombeni and uMakoti, while Beezy Sane, Ntando, Stoz Music, Dingos, Enhle Mthombeni and Brandon Dhe have earned nominations in the Best R&B/Afro Soul category.
The Best Hip Hop category features T3lyn, MK AKA MIKE and Crazy M competing for the title, while Londiwe Sibanyoni, Bhilibhili and the Vibes, and Shevu Kandaba have been nominated in the Best Male category in recognition of their contribution to the local music industry.
Artists preserving and promoting Ndebele culture through music are also recognised in the Best Ndebele Music category. Nominees include Angie "M", iinyamazana Zomango, Amal-Diketso, MK AKA MIKE and iimpeperembe.
Traditional dance remains an important part of the awards, with Achievers Super Buddies, Ubuhlebegatsha, Ubuhle Bemvelo, Amalanda Amhlophe, Hope of Sarafina Mathipa, Igugulamatshitshi, Ukukhanya United Dancers, Amajarha We Pungutsha and Amanono Amahle competing in the Best Traditional Dance category.
The Best Group category recognises outstanding collaborations and vocal groups, with Movement Entertainment, Legacy Voices, Mpumalanga Youth Choir, Moeding and Legacy Group all nominated.
Beyond music and dance, NkAMA also honours artistic creativity through the Best Visual Art category. This year's nominees are THAT THING, Innocent Creatives Studio, Bhudsup' Art, Igadango Creationz, David M. Moima Art, LGM'S Magnificent Portraits, Umncamo Fashion, Noluthando M and Deon M Art Gallery, highlighting the diverse artistic talent found across the district.
As anticipation continues to build, the 2026 Nkangala Arts and Music Awards promises to be a memorable celebration of local excellence, providing a platform for artists, performers and visual creatives to receive the recognition they deserve while inspiring the next generation of talent.
The public is encouraged to support the nominees as preparations continue for the awards ceremony on 11 and 12 September 2026.
