Thamsanqa “KrTC” Sibandze has officially accepted his appointment as Chairperson of the National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) 2026, committing to lead a programme aimed at strengthening and elevating Eswatini’s arts and creative sector.
The announcement was made by the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC), which has entrusted Sibandze with overseeing preparations for the country’s premier arts recognition platform. His appointment comes as NACA 2026 gears up for a nationwide programme that will culminate in the awards ceremony next year.
Speaking after his appointment, Sibandze said he was honoured by the trust placed in him and the committee members tasked with delivering the awards programme. “I accept this responsibility with humility, reverence and respect for the task ahead,” he said.
He noted that the role carries a responsibility to ensure that the creative industry continues to grow and create opportunities for artists across the country. “We have the opportunity and the obligation to leave this industry better than we found it,” Sibandze said.
According to the newly appointed chairperson, preparations for NACA 2026 will involve a comprehensive five-month programme designed to identify talent, build capacity and engage creatives at grassroots level. “The five-month programme that begins with regional activations, workshops and talent identification is thorough, intentional and ambitious. It is designed not only to reward excellence, but to raise the standard before we reward it,” he said.
The programme is expected to reach artists from all regions of the country, creating platforms for mentorship, professional development and increased participation in the creative economy. Industry stakeholders have welcomed the approach, saying it reflects a commitment to long-term sector growth rather than focusing solely on the awards ceremony.
Sibandze also acknowledged the work done by previous NACA leadership teams and committees, saying the current team would build on the foundation already established. “As the various committees, we will honour the foundation laid by those who came before us and continue building where they left off,” he said.
He further expressed gratitude to the ENCAC leadership for entrusting him with the responsibility of chairing the awards. “We want to thank the CEO and the Board of the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture for trusting us with this task,” he said.
As preparations for NACA 2026 begin, Sibandze called for unity and support from the creative community. “May God guide us, bless every artist and creative, and may God bless the National Arts and Culture Awards 2026,” he said.
