Ukhozi FM has unveiled its refreshed 2026 programming lineup, set to take effect on 1 April 2026. With over 7.5 million weekly listeners, the station continues to evolve its programming while strengthening its connection with audiences across the country.
The refreshed line up marks an exciting new chapter for the station following the appointment of a new management team. The changes are aimed at super servicing Ukhozi FM’s loyal listener base while also growing a younger, youth-oriented audience, and continuing to lead from the front in line with the station’s tagline, Luhamba Phambili.
Listeners can look forward to an exciting new on-air combination as radio and television personality Velani “Vee” Mthembu joins Nonhlanhla “Mroza” Buthelezi on the breakfast show (06h00–09h00), bringing fresh energy to kick start the day.
The lunchtime slot (12h30–15h00) sees Siphesihle Shabalala, better known as DJ SpheLive, teaming up with Zimiphi “Zimdollar” Biyela for a lively and engaging midday experience.
Drive time gets even more exciting as Sthandwa Nzuza joins the prime-time team, co-hosting Woza Nabangani Bakho alongside Khathide “Tshatha” Ngobe, creating a vibrant duo for the afternoon commute.
The late-night slot from 22h00 to 00h00 will adopt a stronger music-driven format, showcasing a wide range of genres while creating a platform for overnight and emerging talent.
The station continues to invest in developing new talent through its pipeline initiatives. Winners from the Winnie Mahlangu programme are stepping confidently into key slots, with Zama Mseleku taking over Saturdays from 07h00 to 09h00, Nozipho Zulu on Sundays from 07h00 to 09h00, and Sphiwe Sibiya on Sundays from 12h00 to 15h00.
Building on the success of the Siyayijika Lento (SJL) campaign, which provided a platform to test new voices and presenter combinations, standout talents such asSiyamthanda Myeza and Nomfundo Clarissa Mfeka will form part of the station’s evolving sound, with additional names to be introduced based on strong listener feedback.
Listeners can also look forward to Nokwanda Tema and Simtho Dladla joining the station, further strengthening the station’s real-time Sports and Traffic offering and enhancing the listener experience.
The station also pays tribute to veteran broadcaster Mandla Mdletshe, who will be retiring after an outstanding 27 years of dedicated service with the SABC, all of which were spent at Ukhozi FM. At the time of his retirement, he served as Senior Producer: Mandate, and has over the years, acted in various positions within the station’s programming department, demonstrating exceptional leadership and commitment. Widely regarded as an icon on the airwaves, Mdletshe is celebrated for his significant contribution to Jazz and Agricultural programming, as well as his profound knowledge and preservation of the isiZulu language, which greatly enriched the station. His name has become synonymous with the Ukhozi FM brand. Ukhozi FM extends its heartfelt gratitude for his invaluable contribution and wishes him well in his retirement.
Lwazi Mthabela, Ukhozi FM Business Manager said, “Our refreshed on-air line-up signals an exciting new chapter for Ukhozi FM, one that is firmly rooted in our commitment to evolve with our listeners while preserving the essence that makes the station a beloved companion to millions. As we look to the future, we are focused on delivering dynamic, relevant, and engaging content that continues to resonate across generations. We also take this moment to acknowledge and sincerely thank all presenters who have contributed to the station’s success over the years. Their passion and dedication have helped shape Ukhozi FM into the powerhouse it is today. We extend our special appreciation to Mandla Mdletshe for his invaluable contribution to the station and its listeners.”
Listeners are encouraged to tune in from 1 April 2026 to be part of the moment, as over 7.5 million listeners across the country connect with the refreshed Ukhozi FM line up, strengthening the powerful bond between Ukhozi FM and its listeners.
UKHOZI FM 2026 LINEUP:
Weekday Lineup
