Isukile Sport And Arts Programme Heads To Zululand
Zululand District will come alive this Saturday, 30 May 2026, as it hosts the next leg of the KZN Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s Isukile Integrated Sport & Arts Programme at King Bhekuzulu High School in KwaNongoma, the heartland of the Zulu Nation.
From 09h00 to 15h00, young people will come together through sport and the arts, with Isukile once again demonstrating how the two complement each other. Participants from Ulundi, uPhongolo, eDumbe, and Abaqulusi will join local youth for a high-energy, district-wide showcase of talent.
King Bhekuzulu High School carries deep historical significance. Named after a prominent Zulu monarch, the school once nurtured royal princes and the sons of traditional leaders who went on to shape the Zulu nation.
The programme is led by the Hon. MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Mtomuhle Khawula, as part of his province-wide drive to take opportunities directly to young people. Known for his tireless work ethic and constant presence in communities across KZN, MEC Khawula has been identifying emerging talent, using sport and the arts to build discipline, steering youth away from crime, and strengthening social cohesion.
“This is about giving young people a fair shot,” said MEC Khawula.
“Isukile is a basket of services that puts opportunity in front of them. Sport and the arts build the whole person — body, mind, and spirit — and that’s how we strengthen communities from the ground up. Zululand has the talent. Now it’s time to show it.”
The event is being delivered in partnership with the Zululand District Municipality and Nongoma Local Municipality.
Sport and arts programmes will run concurrently from 09h00 to 15h00, allowing participants and spectators to move freely between activities.
On the sporting side, activities will include netball, football, chess, aerobics for all, indigenous games such as Khokho, Ingqathu, and Umlabalaba, as well as disability games.
The arts programme will feature traditional and contemporary performances, including Ingoma Yezinsizwa neyeZintombi, Maskandi, and poetry. Urban sounds such as Kwaito, Gqom, and Hip Hop will also take centre stage, alongside competitions including Battle of the DJs and a multi-genre music contest and exhibition.
Beyond the performances, the day will also include a child protection dialogue session, a street parade, and an awareness walk open to parents and the wider community.
Top performers in the group categories will receive cash prizes, sports kits, musical equipment, and other incentives. Entry is free for both participants and spectators.
