Bongani's Journey

Bongani Nkwanyana
[History & Journey]

Bongani is a first Maskandi musician to win a national music competition known as The Shell Road to Fame in 1988.
He is a founder of popular bands such as Bambata, Nu World, Abafana Abalungile, The Scorers and recently Shosholoza. Working with top producers - Jabu Khanyile, Hugh Masekela, Bheki Khoza, Duma Ndlovu, Mthandeni Mvelase, Dumisani Dlamini & others has gained Nkwanyana experience both as a singer and producer.

Collaborating with World acclaimed musicians such as Phuzekhemisi, Thandiswa Mazwayi, Rude-Boy Paul, Tiny Motha and others, enabled Nkwanyana to record “The Rebellion Concert” Live at Bassline, which is available on VHS, DVD and CD.

The Solidarity For Ever recorded live at COSATU's 8th National Congress, Gallagher Estate afforded Nkwanyana an opportunity to perform at the presence of South Africa former President Nelson Mandela. He shared stage with the likes of Hugh Masekela, Chico Twala, Letta Mbulu, Sibongile Khumalo, Busi Mhlongo, to mention a few. Bongani also performed at Kippies Jazz Club, Hugh’s J&B Junction, Johannesburg, Civic Theatre and Kilimanjaro. Internationally, he performed at Africa Festival in Germany, as well as Africa Festival in Spain.

He performed at The Union Building in Pretoria - Tshwane, 27th April 2004 for "Freedom Day" at the President Thabo Mbeki Presidential Inauguration, privileged to perform for World leaders and also at the COSATU May Day event, in Bloemfontein, 1st of May 2004.

In September 2004, Nkwanyana released 3rd Bambata CD called Abashokobezi (1906-2006) sequel to 1st CD entitled 1906 and 2nd CD entitled Ukhandampondo (Poll-Tax); in honour of iNkosi (Chief) Bhambatha Zondi who vehemently fought against colonialism and imperialism at the beginning of the 20th Century. However, he (Bhambatha Zondi) was eventually apprehended and beheaded by British Soldiers in 1906.

Nkwanyana performed at the Reconciliation Day on the 16th December 2004, at Mary Fitzgerald Square, Johannesburg and Polokwane respectively.

Nkwanyana has received a total of 6 South African Music Awards (SAMA) nominations thus far.


He is currently a chairperson for the Inner City Arts and Culture Forum in Region Eight, representing up and coming artists in Gauteng Province. The organization is a collaborative platform for up and coming artists, where they share their common knowledge through workshops, performances and debates.