By Phiwa Sikhondze
Renowned radio legend Wilson B Nkosi is set to receive the prestigious Symbol of Excellence Honourary Award at the upcoming Eswatini Consumer Choice Awards.
The event, hosted by the creative agency A Peculiar People in collaboration with the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA), will take place on September 6, 2024, at the Mavuso Trade Centre during this year’s Eswatini International Trade Fair. This celebration of local business excellence is aimed at encouraging consumers to support Eswatini-made products.
Melusi Zox Dlamini, Chairperson of A Peculiar People, confirmed Nkosi’s acceptance of the award and his attendance at the ceremony.
“We are both excited and humbled,” Dlamini said. “Mr Wilson B Nkosi is a very busy man, but he has confirmed that he will be in the country to receive this honour. Additionally, he will perform at the Trade Fair on the same day, which also marks Eswatini’s 56th Independence Day. Wilson B Nkosi has been captivating audiences for over 30 years, and in September 2024, he will celebrate 38 years with METRO FM. To have someone dominate the airwaves of a single commercial radio station for that long is unprecedented in South African broadcasting history. He is truly radio royalty and a giant in the creative industry.”
Dlamini further emphasized Nkosi’s impact on the international stage, noting, “As a product of Eswatini, he has outperformed many of his colleagues, building a loyal audience base, mentoring young talent, and setting a shining example as a consummate broadcaster. We are incredibly proud of Mr. Nkosi.”
Nkosi, in a statement, expressed his gratitude for the recognition. “Being awarded is like a pat on the back,” he said. “It shows that out of millions of people, someone thinks I am doing something right. It’s not easy, but knowing someone is listening keeps me motivated.” Nkosi also shared his admiration for legendary figures Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte, drawing parallels to his journey. “My beloved Eswatini lives in me and always has,” he said. Both Sidney and Harry had people in their ancestral homes who kept them relevant, and similarly, I have people like Melusi “Zox” Dlamini and the late Senator Mike Temple (MHSRIP) who have kept my name relevant back home.”
In addition to receiving the award, Nkosi will perform at the EITF Consumer Choice After Party, promising an elegant soirée with delicious local food, great company, and the best in afro-soul music. The celebration of Nkosi’s illustrious career is expected to attract Afro-soul lovers from across the country.
Executive Manager for Trade Promotion at EIPA, Sibusiso Mnisi, confirmed the partnership with A Peculiar People and the significance of the event.
“The ultimate goal of the Eswatini Consumer Choice Awards is to promote the purchase of local products, which in turn will create job opportunities and enable our local SMEs to thrive,” Mnisi stated. “We are pleased that the concept is consumer-centric and we encourage stakeholders and consumers alike to support this event.”
A Peculiar People is a creative agency specializing in events and public relations campaigns that bridge the gap between consumers and local products. The agency advocates for the procurement of quality and authentic Eswatini goods and services, representing talents, brands, and entrepreneurs who value distinctiveness and refuse to compromise on excellence.