In a unique event that unified 9 SABC ALS radio station under one roof, Dr. Nothembi Mkhwebane set the stage alight with an unforgettable performance of her signature Ndebele traditional music inside the sold out Sun City Superbowl arena on Saturday 28 June 2025. Wildly recognized as the Queen of Ndebele music, her performance electrified the arena as she represented the Mpumalanga Combo at the inaugural Ziyakhala Mo Sun City event. She took patrons down memory lane and engulfed them with nostalgia that goes as far back as 1984 where she started her professional music journey.
Dr. Mkhwebane was surprised on stage by the GE of Radio Ms. Nada Wotshela and the Business Manager of the Mpumalanga Combo Mr. Nkosinathi Ntuli who presented her with a lifetime achievement award for her contribution to the development and growth of Ndebele music and traditional music in general. She was awarded with a gold plaque as well as a limited edition of Ndebele print shoes made specifically for her. The music icon was visibly overwhelmed with emotions of joy as she, together with fellow award recipients, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, received a standing ovation from a capacity-filled Superbowl arena.
“Dr Nothembi has not only been a true ambassador of Ndebele music, but she has also been a treasure to Ikwekwezi FM, AmaNdebele and South Africa as a whole. As a station that prides itself with the development of isiNdebele and AmaNdebele, Ikwekwezi FM felt it was befitting to celebrate this legend in front of millions of South Africans and in that manner”, said MP Combo Business Manager, Mr. Nkosinathi Ntuli.
Ziyakhala Mo Sun City had a star-studded line up, that featured legends such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Ringo Madlingozi, Sjava, Mthandeni SK, Makhadzi, Casper Nyovest, King Monada and Ntate Stunna among others.
Ikwekwezi FM ensured that those who couldn’t attend the event felt the vibe through the airwaves via live broadcast. Thandymamakhe, the presenter of the station’s 19:00 – 21:00 show on Ikwekwezi FM weekdays also flew the brand high as one of the chosen MC’s of the event alongside Somizi and Amon Mokoena.
Visit Ikwekwezi FM socials for pictures and videos of the event @Ikwekwezi_FM.
