Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla yesterday handed over travel support to Sabelo Matse, praising him as an inspiration ahead of his Zimbabwe music tour.
The handover ceremony, held at the DPM’s offices, marked a significant moment for the award-winning artist following his recognition at the Luke Commission Arts Festival for Persons with Disabilities.
The event drew support from various stakeholders, including Eswatini Air, the National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities in Eswatini, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and other partners committed to advancing inclusive arts development.
Dladla described Matse’s achievement as a reflection of perseverance and national pride, highlighting the importance of supporting artists with disabilities.
“It is with immense pride and profound joy that we celebrate this remarkable moment. Your talent and resilience remind us all that disability is not inability,” she expressed, urging him to represent the country with excellence.
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She further acknowledged the collaborative efforts that made the trip possible, including logistical support and recording opportunities arranged for his visit to Harare.
The Zimbabwe tour, scheduled for tomorrow to Sunday, with Bahlalisile Tsabedze accompanying him and ensuring Matse receives proper support, is expected to expose him to regional platforms through engagements with Zimbabwean artists and cultural bodies.
The initiative aims to foster collaboration, strengthen networks and create sustainable opportunities for artists with disabilities within the Southern African region.
Support from partners such as Eswatini Air and EDD Branson Publishers was recognised as instrumental in ensuring the success of the trip.
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Dladla also commended institutions that continue to invest in the creative sector, noting that such partnerships demonstrate a shared commitment to inclusion and cultural development.
“Go forth and represent Eswatini with pride and excellence. This nation believes in you and stands firmly behind you,” she stated, reinforcing government’s support for inclusive artistic growth.
Matse expressed appreciation for the opportunity, acknowledging the role of various organisations in making the journey possible.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity and I thank everyone who supported me. I will make the nation proud as I represent it beyond our borders,” he said.
For Matse, the tour is expected to contribute to broader efforts aimed at empowering artists with disabilities, while strengthening cultural exchange and promoting local creative talent on international stages.
