MIDDELBURG – The Steve Tshwete NkAMA Activation, held on 15 and 16 August at Kees Taljaard Stadium, showcased local talent and produced competitive football and netball action ahead of the main NkAMA Awards on 11 and 12 September 2026.
The activation was the second-to-last build-up event ahead of the main awards, giving spectators a glimpse of the talent and entertainment expected in September.
The weekend showcased several NkAMA nominees. Local dance group Igugulamatshetshe, nominated for Best Traditional Dance, opened the proceedings and impressed spectators.
Vocal group Legacy Voices delivered a strong performance in support of their Best Group nomination, while classical performer Londiwe Sibanyoni held the crowd with two opera pieces. Artists MK AKA Mike and Beezy Sane also impressed, further strengthening their case for recognition at the main awards.
The Masters football tournament produced a thrilling contest, with T Masters crowned champions of the Middelburg NkAMA Top 6 tournament on Sunday after beating Mtoni Masters 7-6 on penalties following a goalless draw in the final.
Saturday’s fixtures saw Mtoni Masters edge T Masters 5-4, NDM Masters receive a 3-0 walkover against Paramount Masters, while Arnot Masters beat Zim 11 Masters 2-1. On Sunday, T Masters defeated NDM Masters 2-1 in the semi-finals, while Mtoni Masters beat Arnot Masters 2-1 to book their place in the final.
The tournament was supported by Highveld Chronicle, Nkangala District Municipality and Zokosani KwaMhlanga Funeral Parlour.
On the netball court, Mighty Divas dominated, beating Vuka Ubone 48-11 to be crowned the Steve Tshwete NkAMA netball champions.
With Steve Tshwete setting a strong benchmark, attention now turns to eMakhazeni, which will host the final NkAMA Activation on 22 and 23 August 2026.
Highveld Chronicle Business Strategist Mulawu Mathye said the eMakhazeni activation “will be the final opportunity for communities to experience the NkAMA activation of the Nkangala District before the awards gala in September.”
eMakhazeni will now have to match, and possibly surpass, the standard set by Steve Tshwete as the district-wide activation programme reaches its final stop.
Whether eMakhazeni can match the energy and turnout of Middelburg remains to be seen, with the final activation setting the stage for the main NkAMA programme in September.
