HLATHIKHULU-Shiselweni hip-hop artist turns past disappointment into reneweddetermination as he calls on Eswatinito help bring the NACA award home.
For many artists, rejection can mark the end of a dream. For Cate Officixl, it became the beginningof a stronger journey.
The Hlatikhulu-born hip-hop artist has officiallybeen nominated for the 2026 Eswatini National Arts and Culture Awards (NACA) in the Best Regional Hip-Hop Artist – Shiselweni category, a milestone that reflects years of resilience, hardwork and unwavering belief in his craft.
Coming from one of Eswatini’s most rural regions, where aspiring musicians often struggle withlimited resources and exposure, Cate Officixl has steadily built a reputation as one of Shiselweni’smost promising hip-hop talents. His latestnomination is not only a personal achievement but also a proud moment for a community eager to see one of its own succeed on the national stage.
“I was overwhelmed with gratitude when I heard the news,” Cate Officixl said.
“My first words were simply, ‘Thank You, God.’ Every opportunity I have received is by His grace. I also thought about everyone who hasstood beside me, from the people who stream my music and attend my performances tothose who share my work and encourage me tokeep believing in myself. This nominationbelongs to all of them as much as it belongs to me.”
The nomination carries added significance afterthe artist narrowly missed out on the same awardin 2024. Rather than allowing the disappointment to define his career, he channelled it intomotivation.
“Losing in 2024 was one of the most painful moments of my career. I invested my heart and countless hours into my music, so naturally it hurt. But I refused to let disappointment define me. Instead, I allowed it to refine me. Every setback became fuel to work harder andbecome a better artist.”
That determination has been evident in his artistic growth. Through new music, energetic performances and a growing fan base, CateOfficixl has continued to prove that consistency and perseverance can overcome even the toughest obstacles.
Although optimistic, the artist admits thatreturning to the awards stage comes with mixed emotions.
“I won’t pretend that I’m not nervous. Anyone who has experienced disappointment understands what it feels like to return to the same stage. But this year feels different. My faith is stronger, my determination is greater, and I truly believe this is our year.”
Beyond personal success, Cate Officixl believesthe nomination belongs to everyone who has supported his journey.
“Behind every artist is an entire community. My supporters have carried me through moments when I felt like giving up. Every stream, every message, every share and every vote remindsme that I am not walking this journey alone. Together, I believe we can make history.”
With public voting now open, the artist is appealing to supporters across Eswatini to rally behind his campaign and help secure what would be a historic victory for Hlatikhulu and the Shiselweni Region.
Supporters can vote by sending NACA to +1 862 203 4403 on WhatsApp, following the promptsand selecting Cate Officixl in the Best Regional Hip-Hop Artist – Shiselweni category. Voting costs E5 per category, while those needingassistance can contact the artist on 79823789.
Whether or not he ultimately takes home the trophy, Cate Officixl’s journey has already becomea powerful testament to resilience, faith and the belief that talent can flourish regardless of where it comes from.
As Eswatini celebrates its creative excellence through this year’s NACA Awards, one messagecontinues to resonate from Hlatikhulu: no dream is too big when determination meets community support.
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