Chronicle EditorMthabisi Tshuma,[email protected]
The fourth edition of the Amaqhawanentaba FM Music Awards was a resounding success, held in neighbouring South Africa, where the crème de la crème of the creative industry from across the Limpopo River gathered for the event.
The awards ceremony, hosted by multi-award-winning poet Obert Dube, took place at the Victory Theatre in Johannesburg on Saturday.
The night belonged to Nicky S IQhawekazi, who emerged as the biggest winner, scooping two awards in the Best Maskandi and Best Female Artist categories. Chase Skuza, hailing from Bulilima district in Matabeleland South province, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades-long contribution to music.
The event featured an array of performances that electrified the packed auditorium. Performers included King Nation, Motho Oa Mabenyeng, Abafana Bakamolo from South Africa, Majozi, Queen JQ 420, Indluzela Yesizwe, Mbukezi Sgoqa, Nqamebomvu, Pre Zuzu, Inkazimulo Yabangcwele, Nkomo, Thembi Msana, Matjodi Ea Mabenyeng, Masitshela, Ingane Yabapostoli, Lee Tryphine, Lindokuhle Mkhize, Ps Costa Mpilo, Mathew Tibani, King Gash, Saroy Tnp, and Intombi Yokukhanya, among others.
The event was graced by notable guests, including Izinduna Zesilo Sakwa Zulu, King Bulelani Lobengula kaMzilikazi, Morena Theko Lebenya from Lesotho, Nobuhle Girvie Foundation, Chief Jubane, Ngqabutho Nicholas Mabhena, Mangako, Mxolisi Ncube, Pastor Mzila, Inhloni Arts, Mkhumbulani Moyo, Sivundula Amakhono TV, Mkhululi Chimoio, Laiton Laiza Dube, Gwaza Gwaza, Jabu Podcast, Herzilet Dube, Dorothy Ndlovu, Onias Dube, and Nomzamo Morning Star.
One of the founders of the awards, DJ Wabonunuza, expressed his satisfaction with this year’s edition, emphasising the unity it brought among artistes from the southern part of the African continent.
“We’re happy that the event was a success, with attendees coming in large numbers. We also showcased artists from several SADC countries, including Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana, and Lesotho.
“We’d like to express our gratitude to everyone who supported the event,” said DJ Wabonunuza.
Below is the list of winners:
1. Best Maskandi – Nicky S IQhawekazi
2. Best Gospel – Gugulethu Moyo
3. Best Upcoming Artist – Motho Oa Mabenyeng
4. Best Actor/Actress – Gugulethu Siziba
5. Best Male Artist – Nqamebomvu
6. Best Author – Slie Ndethi
7. Best Radio Presenter – Ben 10
8. Best Hip Hop/Afro Pop – Proudly Ndebele Children
9. Best Couple – Mr and Mrs Mthente
10. Best Poet – Mkhululi Nyathi
11. Best African Artist – Nicky S IQhawekazi
12. Best Female Artist – Thembi Msana
13. Lifetime Achievement Award – Chase Skuza
Online Reporter