SHEILA MHLONGO
KZN Namuhla Community Newspaper celebrated Heritage month by honouring young and up coming artists from various parts of South Africa, who came to receive their awards in trophies, certificates and cash prizes. The event was held at EThekwini Community Church in Durban Central, on Saturday 07 September 2024.
KZN Namuhla Community Newspaper celebrated its 26th Anniversary in collaboration with Heritage month, by honoring young and up-coming Artists from different genres. Over 26 Artists including Authors were nominated through voting process and received their Awards in the form of Trophies, Certificates and Cash Prizes, on this special occasion.
The founder and Editor of KZN Namuhla Community Newspaper Ms Sheila Mhlongo said she is happy to see the awards growing and attracting artists from other provinces such as Gauteng, Eastern Cape, Western Cape and KZN.
“When we started the awards I thought they were only good enough for KZN and Durban but I was surprised to see artists from others parts of South Africa taking part in the awards. So I am very happy to see the awards growing this much.” Says Ms Mhlongo.
Councillor Mpume Sithole delivered a message from Mayor Cllr Cyril Xaba, congratulating KZN Namuhla 26th Anniversary and for successfully holding 3rd Annual Artists Awards, as well as congratulating, the artists for winning their prizes.
Ms. Thokozani Mamkhize-Ndlovu delivered a keynote address on behalf of KZN MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Mr. Mntomuhle Khawula. Thokozani congratulated the Editor, Ms. Mhlongo for successfully honouring young and upcoming artists who came in numbers to receive their prizes, and also encouraged those who did not win, not to give up trying next time.
Viktor Matoto from Gauteng in Alex was over the moon for having won the Song of the Year prize category which is a trophy,Certificate and Cash prize under Hip Hop.
“I am so excited for having won a better prize this year, because last year I only won a certificate under Hip Hop Category, though I was disappointed but I am glad I did not lose hope, which is why I am so excited. “Says Matoto.
Also from Gauteng in Orange Farm Nqam’Ebomvu swept away three trophies for being the Best Maskandi Artists, Best Traditional Maskandi, and for the Most Voted Artist.
“I am so happy for coming to KZN and outshining other artists by winning 3 trophies under different categories. I also like to thank the event organisers, the voters for trusting me,by investing their money so that I can win big and other artists for trying to outrun me.”Says Nqam ‘Ebomvu.
Categories for 2024 were as follows:
Gospel
Maskandi
Afro Pop and Hip Hop
Poetry
Author
Radio and Entertainment, Best Producer
Best Influencer, Best Amapiano