Icebolethu group partners with Crown Gospel Music Awards in major naming-rights deal
The Crown Gospel Music Awards have officially launched their 19th edition at Coastlands Hotel, Umhlanga, in Durban KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) marking another significant milestone in the Awards’ remarkable 19-year journey.
The launch brought together leading figures from the gospel music industry, artists, stakeholders, church leaders, pastors and members of the media.
The major highlight was the announcement of Icebolethu Group as the official Naming-Rights Partner.
The Awards will now be presented as the “19th Icebolethu Crown Gospel Music Awards.”
Crown Gospel Music Awards Executive Producer, Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, officially announced the partnership and expressed his appreciation to Icebolethu Group Founder and Group CEO, Dr Nomfundo Mcoyi-Zondo and the Icebolethu Board for supporting the continuation of the late Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s legacy.
“We are deeply grateful to Dr Nomfundo Mcoyi and the entire Icebolethu Group for coming on board. This partnership strengthens our journey as we continue the legacy of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule and prepare for an even greater future for the Crowns,” said Nkambule.
Mcoyi welcomed the partnership, reflecting on her long-standing relationship with Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule and her enduring love for the Crown Gospel Music Awards.
“I have always believed in Zanele’s vision and legacy. Beyond our friendship and sisterhood connection, I have always admired what the Crowns represent. Icebolethu and the Crown Gospel Music Awards share a commitment to empowering Artists to achieve their dreams in the creative sector. I would like to call upon the private and public sector to continue to support such initiatives which contributes immensely in the creative economy” said Mcoyi.
Icebolethu Group brings extensive experience in branding, marketing and development.
This expertise will be further strengthened through the participation of Kenako Marketing Agency in this year’s Awards campaign.
The launch programme was led by Pastor Sthe Mtshali, who officially announced that nominations for the 19th Icebolethu Crown Gospel Music Awards are now open.
“This year, we are going big. The legacy continues, and still we praise,” said Mtshali.
Guests were entertained by 2025 Song of the Year winner Sihle Khumalo, accompanied by the Crown Gospel Music Awards Choir, which supported the performing artists throughout the launch.
The 19th edition also marks the beginning of the build-up towards the historic 20th anniversary celebrations.
Activities planned throughout 2026 will include various gospel-focused programmes and the anticipated Gospel Week.
The Crown Gospel Music Awards now invites additional partners, sponsors and stakeholders to join this important journey and contribute towards preserving the legacy, developing gospel music and empowering future generations.
