BY PHESHEYA KUNENE
MBABANE– Local gospel musician, Nothando Shabangu-Dlamini has added an international award under her belt after snagging the Africa Gospel Artist of the Year award at the 2021 Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards.
The winners were announced at a red ceremony held at the AGS Communio Church in Nelspruit, South Africa.
The sold out ceremony took place at the weekend, on Sunday evening, and was graced by gospel music heavyweights such as Jabu Hlongwane, Ntokozo Mbambo and Nqubeko Mbatha.
Dlamini scooped the award beating fellow musicians from Zimbabwe and South Africa in Jennie Maneni Mayer and Luleka Mhlanga.
Taking to social media platforms to celebrate her big win, Dlamini wrote:
“To God be the glory. #wangihlawulela
Bazalwane Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I love you all. #Namuhla ngiyamangala.Grace Grace Grace! Praise be to God who makes all things possible.”
During an interview with this publication, Dlamini thanked God and her supporters for making sure she won the international award. She further thanked everyone who prayed for and encouraged.
The 8th edition was no exception as the awards ceremony has always celebrated local gospel musicians. Gcina Masuku, Scara Maziya, Shiba and the Travellers and Nduduzo Matse are some of the gospel artists who have been recognised by the MNGOMA. The MNGOMA celebrates excelling artists in the gospel music industry in South Africa and beyond.
Chief organiser Sandile Ngobe thanked everyone who participated in the ceremony.In addition, Dlamini received celebratory messages from all corners as her social media pages were abuzz with joy and celebrations.
“God has done it for Eswatini, the award has come home.Glory be to God and thanks to all who supported to bring this beautiful thing.Woman of God Nothando Shabangu-Dlamini you have made us proud as a family today.” Anointed C Barsa commented on her Facebook page.
Award-winning gospel artist Sphiwo Ndlangamandla was amongst those congratulated the ‘Wangihlawulela’ hit-maker.
“Congratulations to mommy Nothando Dlamini Best of Africa award coming back home,” he wrote.
