MBABANE – Eswatini traditional music artist Mkhuleko Mangwe, famously known as Sancheziey is set to take Swati culture beyond the country’s borders as he unveils his highly anticipated album, Umtfwana Welive, during an exclusive listening session in Mbombela, South Africa, this Saturday.
The listening session forms part of the launch of the Kusile Kwetfu Cultural Celebration Festival in partnership with Vunula Uhlobe Cultural, bringing together music, culture and community while strengthening the cultural ties between Eswatini and South Africa.
Speaking ahead of the event, Sancheziey said he is excited, grateful and humbled to finally share a project that is deeply rooted in his identity and heritage.
“I’m feeling excited, grateful and humbled. Every project is personal, and this album carries a lot of my heart and my culture. Sharing it with people for the first time is a special moment because I finally get to see and hear their reactions. I believe it will be a memorable experience for everyone who attends,” he said.
The album, Umtfwana Welive, draws inspiration from Swati culture, identity and the spirit of celebration. Through its songs, Sancheziey hopes to encourage listeners to embrace their traditions while celebrating who they are.
One of the standout tracks, Halala, serves as a celebration anthem, reminding people to appreciate life’s joyful moments while taking pride in their heritage.
“I hope listeners walk away with a deeper appreciation of our traditions and remember the importance of celebrating our heritage while staying united,” he said.
Unlike his previous projects, Umtfwana Welive leans heavily into traditional Swati music, blending authentic cultural rhythms with storytelling that reflects the values and experiences of emaSwati.
“This album reflects my growth as an artist because it leans more into traditional Swati music than my previous projects. I wanted to create something that preserves our heritage while still connecting with today’s audiences. It’s a project that proudly represents where I come from,” he explained.
Sancheziey said choosing Mbombela as the venue for the listening session was a natural decision because of its partnership with the Kusile Kwetfu Cultural Celebration Festival.
“This moment is important for my career because it allows me to introduce my music to a wider audience while celebrating the cultural connection between Eswatini and South Africa,” he said.
The album also boasts collaborations with respected artists, including veteran singer Lodanda, MaCeleb, Young Zesh and the Limkokwing Choir. Produced by Emadlelweni Music, the project brings together different voices united by a shared passion for preserving and promoting Swati culture.
“Each artist brought their own unique talent, experience and creativity to the project. We all shared the same vision of celebrating our culture through music, and I believe fans will appreciate the chemistry and authenticity in every collaboration,” he said.
As an artist proudly representing Eswatini, Sancheziey believes taking his music beyond the country’s borders is essential in showcasing the richness of Swati culture to regional and international audiences.
“Music is a powerful way to share our culture with the world. I want people across Southern Africa and beyond to experience the beauty of Swati music and traditions. Crossing borders helps build cultural understanding, creates new opportunities and shows that our stories and heritage deserve to be heard on bigger stages,” he said.
Following Saturday’s listening session, Sancheziey has no plans of slowing down. Fans can expect the release of several music videos from Umtfwana Welive, followed by an album tour that will take his music to different communities across the region.
“I’m looking forward to performing these songs live, connecting with fans and continuing to promote Umtfwana Welive across the region,” he said.
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