MBABANE – Eswatini’s celebrated gospel powerhouse, Nothando Hlophe, has once again raised the kingdom’s flag high after clinching the Best of Africa Award at the 18th South African Crown Gospel Music Awards held at the Durban ICC on Sunday night.
The accolade, regarded as one of the most coveted honours in African Gospel music, recognises the continent’s outstanding talent, artistry, and impact. Hlophe’s win places her among an elite circle of gospel musicians who have shaped and influenced the genre across Africa.
The Best of Africa category has previously been won by notable artists such as Theophilus Lesole (2023), Michael Mahendere (2022), Janet Manyowa (2021), and Heal Africa (2020), placing Hlophe amongst the giants of Gospel music.
On her social media page she commented, “God has done it again! Yesterday I received the Best of Africa Award, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude. Thank you to everyone who believes.”
According to her, this achievement is for everyone who has been watching and listening to her music as she adds into a year of success. Just weeks earlier, she celebrated over 2 million views on YouTube for her hit single, Methodist Medley, a track that has captured audiences across Southern Africa. Sharing her excitement with fans, she expressed gratitude and urged continued support, saying, “Thank you to every single person who streamed, shared and supported my music. Let’s keep spreading the message in the music.”
Her award-winning streak is further echoed by the success of her latest album, A New Dawn, which blends classic hymns with contemporary Gospel elements. One of the standout tracks recently debuted on the South Africa Spotify Daily Top 50, reaching No. 73 in just 24 hours a notable achievement for an Eswatini musician.
Industry experts have described this phase of Hlophe’s career as one of her most defining moments, citing her expanding regional influence and rapidly growing digital footprint. With each milestone, she continues to set new standards for excellence in Gospel music while shining a spotlight on Eswatini’s talent on the continental stage.
2025 Crown Gospel Awards – Winners List
- Best Newcomer: Musay Ndeje
- Best Male: Sbu Noah
- Best Female: Matema
- Best Duo/Group: The Jesus Collective
- Best Album: Mooki Kgotso – Live in the Comforter
- Best Song: Mnqobi Nxumalo
- Best Jazz: Lwei Ntshitshwele
- Best Video: Sbu Nzima
- Best Acapella: Umkhaya Original
- Best Clap and Tap: Mighty Messengers
- Best Amazion: Because of God (Joyous Celebration)
- Best Collabo: Teboho Moloi, Xolly Mncwango & Kagiso Kekana
- Best Song Writer: Tebs David
- Best Zion: Testimony
- Best Venda: Praise Peterson
- Best Praise: Heavenly Praise
- Best Rap: Uncle Jacos
- Best Producer: Nqobile Mthethwa
- Best of Africa: Nothando Hlophe
- Special Achievement Award: Mthunzi Ndimande
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