Swazi Observer

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NACAS RECEIVES OVER 50 000 VOTES

By TANELE SIHLONGONYANE | 2024-12-12

THE National Arts and Culture Awards (NACAs) has received over 50 000 votes casted for the nominees, highlighting the community's enthusiasm and engagement in the celebration of artistry.

With less than five days remaining until the highly anticipated award event, the Chairperson of the NACAs, Sipho Makhabane said he was thrilled over the number of votes received.

He stated that the voting numbers reflected the support and enthusiasm that the country at large has given to the upcoming grand finale awards, after the successful hosting of the regional awards.

Scheduled for this Saturday at Esibayeni Lodge, the NACAs according to Makhabane, promise an unforgettable evening that reflects the rich tapestry of Eswatini's artistic expressions.

He said attendees could look forward to a diverse range of performances from over 50 artists that would ensure that there is something for everyone, from the captivating rhythms of the traditional Sibhaca dance to the energetic beats of contemporary hip hop.

“The NACAs serve not only as a platform for recognition, but also as a means of public engagement. Voting lines, which opened on November 8, will close tomorrow. he encouraged community members to support their favorite artists,” said Makhabane.

As of December 2, the NACAs page showcased leading nominees in various categories, reflecting the community's support. Among those gaining recognition were Mzide Poet for Outstanding Poet, Deejay Cup for Outstanding DJ, Thembinkhosi Mthethwa for Best Actor, Siphesihle Zwane for Outstanding Actress in Schools, and Siyinqaba (Gwayimane) for Outstanding Classic of All Times.

The chairperson said he and his team appreciated all the artists and organisations that had supported them so far.

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“Together, we can continue to celebrate and recognise the immense talent in our country. As we look forward to the main event, we ask for your continued support and encouragement as we work to showcase the best of Eswatini's arts and culture,” said Makhabane.

Local renowned spinner Sbu De Drum DJ expressed his excitement about the upcoming event, highlighting that he hoped to take an award home.

“I am so excited and honored as well to be nominated on the outstanding DJ category, I so wish I can take it home but even if I do not, that is still ok with me as being nominated showed me that people can really see my hard work. I am really looking forward for the main event, may people please continue voting for me,” he said.

Local actor and producer Siphosethu Sibandze expressed his enthusiasm towards the awards ceremony.

“To be honest, I am super excited for the whole event as it will be my first time attending an awards ceremony and also being nominated in my career.

I am looking forward to a beautiful event that will make us feel appreciated and motivate all the nominated artists to do more.

Of course, we will not all win the awards but just being nominated and being part of the event full of Eswatini artists is a win and a motivation that what I am doing is being appreciated by my country.

Special thanks to the Department of Arts and Culture for bringing us the awards ceremony.
We believe from here, we will have more work for artists and help grow our craft to the global space and all artists should support the NACAs so that they grow to a global standard,” he said.

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