Based: Durban

Umafikizolo, born Khethukuthula Mhlongo, is a rising South African Maskandi artist from KwaZulu-Natal, known for combining traditional Zulu storytelling and musical heritage with a contemporary, energetic sound. Based in Durban and originally from the uMnambithi/Ladysmith area, he has quickly established himself as one of the exciting new voices in modern Maskandi.

His breakthrough came with “Ngathi Nguye”, followed by the hugely successful “Uyoncengwa Unyoko,” which became a viral South African hit and has attracted millions of streams. His catalogue also includes “Inja Kabi Lena,” “Uzigade Ngani?”, “Nginsizwa” and “Shona Malanga,” with collaborations including Nomfundo Moh, Umashotana and Umehlabomvu.

In 2026, Umafikizolo reached a major career milestone when “Uyoncengwa Unyoko” won Song of the Year at the Metro FM Music Awards, held at the Durban ICC.

With his distinctive Maskandi sound, strong cultural identity and rapidly growing national profile, Umafikizolo brings an authentic and contemporary KwaZulu-Natal musical experience to festivals, cultural events, corporate functions and large-scale entertainment productions.