The “Ihlabekisa” hit-maker and multi-award-winning gospel musician, Sfiso Shongwe, also known as Sfiso S, bagged the song of the year award at the 12th annual Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards on Sunday, December 7.

“I am so ecstatic. God has done it for me. I have been in the gospel music industry for 22 years, and this award shows the hard work and persistence,” Shongwe said. The award came with a cash prize of R100 000.

Shongwe, who hails from Manyeveni, said he has put in a tremendous amount of work to become the successful independent musician he is today. Over the years, he has won several awards, including best song of the year and best songwriter of the year at previous Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards ceremonies.

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He added that winning this year’s award comes ahead of preparations for his upcoming EP, set for release early next year.

In 2023, Shongwe released his sixth studio album, Wang’shaya Nge-Surprise, which he said was well received.