Pretoria: The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has called on artists, cultural institutions, industry bodies, community organisations, and the public to submit nominations for the 2026 National Arts and Culture Awards before the deadline this week.
According to South African Government News Agency, the awards, held under the theme 'Celebrating Our Nation's Creative Excellence,' recognise individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to South Africa's arts, culture, and heritage sectors. Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie urged South Africans to nominate creatives who have made a difference. McKenzie emphasized the importance of nominating talent, stating that talent cannot be honoured if no one takes the initiative to nominate.
Deputy Minister Peace Mabe also encouraged participation from the sector. Mabe highlighted that the awards belong to the entire creative sector and urged individuals, communities, institutions, and industry leaders to nominate those whose work is preserving the nation's heritage, transforming lives, and strengthening South Africa's cultural future.
Nominations must be submitted through the official NACA Digital Portal, https://naca.dsac.gov.za/, by 23:59 on 19 July 2026. No late submissions will be accepted. Nomination guidelines, award categories, and eligibility criteria are available on the portal.