AFRO-SOUL star Sands surprised many yesterday when he stepped onto the Crossworks Church podium in Mbabane, not to sing, but to preach.
Sandziso Matsebula, widely celebrated by his stage name Sands, is known as Eswatini’s Afro-soul sensation, a cultural ambassador, and the voice behind hits like ‘Vuma’ and ‘Tigi’. Yet at Crossworks Church Mbabane, under Pastor Mhlonishwa Motsa, Sands revealed a new dimension to his journey: a messenger of God’s word.
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While many expected to hear his signature soothing voice, Sands chose instead to share what he described as a divine assignment.
“I have grown spiritually and have learned the good deed of the Lord. I am not a pastor but I was sharing a message from God,” he explained.
The church, held at LaCasserole Conference Hall on Gwamile Street, was filled with worshippers who listened intently as Sands urged them to align their lives with God.
“I have repented and have seen the light. The Lord asked me to share a message on the importance of aligning with His work, especially during the last days. I was given a task and I had to deliver the message.”
Pastor Mhlonishwa Motsa warmly welcomed Sands’ contribution.
“We were honoured to have Sands share a message,” he said, reminding the congregation of their guiding adage: “Who the son of man sets free is free indeed.”
Motsa also emphasised that the church is open to all who seek fellowship:
“We are always ready to welcome everyone and those who would like to share the gospel. Our doors remain open because we believe in true fellowship.”
For Sands, this new role does not mark the end of his musical career, but a transformation of his calling. His music has always carried messages of hope and resilience, but now, he insists, his journey carries a deeper spiritual responsibility.
“This is not about me becoming a pastor. It is about obedience. When God gives you a message, you must deliver it,” he said.
Sands’ breakthrough in music came through soulful singles, achieving crossover success in South Africa and earning multiple awards. His debut album, ‘Sands of Time’, went gold and established him as one of the most successful artists from Eswatini. He has since performed across Southern Africa, representing the kingdom culturally and musically.
Yet yesterday, it was not accolades or melodies that took center stage, but his testimony. His willingness to publicly share his repentance and faith stirred reflection among attendees.
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