The lines are now officially open to vote for the gospel musicians nominated in any of the 20 categories in the ninth Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards (Mgoma).

The voting lines will close on Sunday December 4, while the song of the year category will close on the day of the award ceremony on Sunday December 11.

The function will take place at the AFM Communio Church at 18:00 and will be preceded by the red carpet entrance from 16:00.

The Mgoma spokesperson, Sanele Zitha, said there are six nominations in the song of the year category, so a large number of votes are expected to come through.

“Voters may make use of the 34155 voting line. They must also look out for digital posters of their favourite artists on social media for more details on which code to use when voting,” Zitha said.

Building up to the main event, the Mgoma team has embarked on a trophy tour, which is an activation of the ceremony.

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“We started with the trophy tour campaigns on November 13 by visiting churches and campaigning for votes for the song of the year and gospel artists of the year categories. The campaign will run until December 11,” she said.

She also announced and congratulated Lydenburg’s gospel sensation, Blessing Mnisi, for receiving seven nominations, including the song of the year.

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A line-up of 15 local and national performers is set to fill the venue with praise and worship. This includes Sbu Noah, Takie Ndou, Steve Ngobeni, Blessing Mnisi, the Indumiso Gospel Group, and the Rising Sun Choir. The line-up also includes performances from the six nominees of the song of the year category.

Tickets to the celebratory event are available at Computicket, Shoprite and Checkers for R200 for general access and R500 for VIP access.