16 October | 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
African Music and Dance Celebrates 30 Years of Cultural Excellence
“Sustaining Heritage, Shaping Futures”
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.
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.
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
Dr P. Opondo
Email: opondop@ukzn.ac.za