Ntokozo Ngongoma Nomination Withdrawal Sparks Debate Over Faith, Music and Public Views

Mzansi gospel artist Ntokozo Ngongoma has had his nomination for the African Christian Legendary and Impact Makers Awards (CLIMA) withdrawn following a public disagreement with the awards organisers. The singer from Pietermaritzburg in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands was initially nominated for the prestigious 2026 ceremony set to take place in Lagos, Nigeria. The CLIMA Awards are a faith-based platform established in 2016 to honour Christian leaders, gospel musicians and individuals who have made a positive impact across Africa and beyond. The situation escalated after a social media exchange between Ngongoma and the organisers over his public support for the “March and March” movement. The controversy quickly shifted what was meant to be a celebration of achievement into a broader discussion about faith, expression and public responsibility.

The dispute began when Ntokozo Ngongoma publicly voiced support for the March and March movement and its leader Jacinta Zuma Ngobese. In his post, he expressed strong backing for the movement, stating his commitment to their cause and encouraging continued action. The CLIMA organisers responded with concern, arguing that his stance conflicted with their values of unity and peace across Africa. They questioned the implications of supporting a movement they associated with social tension and unrest, stating that their mission focuses on uplifting and uniting Christian communities. This difference in perspective became the turning point that led to growing friction between both parties.

Following the online exchange, Ngongoma requested that his name be removed from the nomination list. He later confirmed that the organisers had cancelled his nomination after his own request and the disagreement that followed. The singer stated that he felt the organisation misunderstood the reality of the situation he was addressing and stood firm on his beliefs. He also emphasized that no external influence could dictate his values or personal convictions. His response reflected a strong position on personal expression, even in the face of professional consequences within the gospel industry.

Ngongoma also shared that his involvement in public advocacy was driven by his love for the country and a desire to take action on issues he believes affect communities. He explained that he could not remain silent while others were actively engaging in social struggles. According to him, the decision to step away from the nomination was based on a mismatch in understanding between him and the awards organisation. The situation highlighted how gospel artists often find themselves balancing faith-based platforms with personal views on social and political matters. It also raised questions about how public figures navigate expectations tied to awards that represent broader Christian values.

The CLIMA Awards organisation later confirmed the removal of Ngongoma from the nomination list. The CEO, Mike Uwak, clarified that the decision was not based on nationality or activism itself, but on concerns that the movement aligned with views that conflicted with the organisation’s objectives of unity and kingdom-focused impact. He explained that the awards aim to celebrate Christian excellence while maintaining a message of peace and cohesion across Africa. Despite the controversy, he noted that the awards remain open to artists from across the continent, including South Africa, and that other nominees from the country are still part of the 2026 lineup. He also pointed out that Ngongoma had previously received recognition from the same platform.

Ntokozo Ngongoma remains an established figure in South African gospel music, with collaborations that include respected artists such as Babo Ngcobo, Malusi Mbokazi, Ayanda Ntanzi and Abanqobi. His music catalogue features well-known songs like Izwi Lakho, Namhla Nkosi and Izindlela Zakhe, which have contributed to his recognition within the gospel industry. Despite the nomination controversy, he continues to maintain a presence in the music scene and among his supporters. The CLIMA Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on 9 October 2026 in Lagos, where other African gospel artists will be honoured for their contributions. The incident has added a complex layer to discussions around faith, artistry and public expression in contemporary gospel music.