DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA, 16 OCTOBER 2026 – The African Music and Dance (AMD) Programme of the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s School of Arts will commemorate a remarkable milestone this year as it celebrates 30 years of championing African cultural heritage, artistic excellence, and community empowerment through music and dance.

To mark this significant achievement, AMD will host its 30th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony on 16 October 2026 at the Blue Waters Hotel in Durban. The event will bring together students, alumni, academics, artists, cultural practitioners, partners, and supporters who have contributed to AMD’s enduring legacy over the past three decades.

Held under the theme “Sustaining Heritage, Shaping Futures,” the celebration will honour AMD’s journey from its inception to its status as a respected platform for cultural preservation, artistic development, and social impact. The evening will reflect on three decades of nurturing talent while reaffirming AMD’s commitment to empowering future generations through African music and dance.

Dr P. Opondo, Director of the African Music and Dance Programme, said:

“Thirty years ago, AMD was established with a vision to celebrate, preserve, and advance Africa’s rich musical and dance traditions. Today, we proudly reflect on three decades of nurturing artists, scholars, educators, and cultural ambassadors who continue to make meaningful contributions locally and globally. This anniversary is not only a celebration of our achievements, but also an opportunity to invest in our future. We invite our alumni, friends, partners, and supporters across South Africa and around the world to join us in building the AMD Legacy Fund, ensuring that future generations of students can continue to learn, create, and share the transformative power of African music and dance.”

Guests will enjoy a vibrant programme featuring performances by current students and distinguished alumni, showcasing the richness and diversity of African artistic expression. A highlight of the evening will be the AMD 30 Years Gala Awards, which will recognise individuals and organisations whose dedication, leadership, and support have significantly contributed to the programme’s growth and success.

Over the past 30 years, AMD has played an important role in preserving indigenous knowledge systems, celebrating cultural identity, and creating opportunities for artistic and personal development. Through its work, the programme has inspired countless young people, strengthened cultural networks, and reinforced the value of African heritage in contemporary society.

As AMD looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to use music and dance as powerful tools for cultural preservation, education, social cohesion, and transformation.

Building the AMD Legacy

As AMD celebrates 30 years of cultural excellence, it warmly invites alumni, colleagues, international partners, friends of the arts, and supporters around the world to share in this achievement. From local stages to international platforms, the AMD Student Ensemble – IKUSASA LETHU has proudly represented South Africa and African heritage to audiences across the globe, forging enduring friendships, collaborations, and partnerships.

To honour this milestone and help shape the next generation of artists, scholars, and cultural leaders, supporters are invited to contribute to the AMD Legacy Fund, established through the UKZN Foundation. Whether offered as a message of congratulations, a gesture of support, or an investment in the future of AMD students, every contribution will help sustain the programme’s mission of preserving heritage, nurturing talent, and transforming lives through music and dance.

Contributions to the Fund will support student development opportunities, cultural preservation initiatives, artistic excellence, and the long-term sustainability of the programme for generations to come.

To make a contribution to the AMD Legacy Fund through the UKZN Foundation, please follow the QR Code on the attached event poster, or contact Dr P. Opondo for further information.

Event Details

Date: 16 October 2026
Venue: Blue Waters Hotel, Durban
Theme: “Sustaining Heritage, Shaping Futures”

Media Enquiries

AMD@30 Organising Team
Ms T. Ndlovu
Tel: (031) 260-2377
Email: UKZNAMD30@ukzn.ac.za

For More Information