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Ukhozi FM revamps 2026 lineup as radio stations shuffle top presenters

Nokubongwa Phenyane|Published

Gagasi FM caught a big fish in Linda "Mr Magic" Sibiya (red cap) who will present an early morning weekday show. Sibiya, a veteran of the airwaves is seen with mid-morning show host, Nonjebs Zwane, breakfast show co-hosts Minnie Ntuli and Felix Hlophe.

Image: Supplied

Ukhozi FM, South Africa’s largest radio station, unveiled its 2026/27 presenter lineup, with major shakeups aimed at reaching 10 million listeners. The announcement, made earlier this week, reflects a strategic move to strengthen the station’s audience and revenue streams.

Business manager Lwazi Mthabela said the changes were carefully considered.

"We consulted widely and planned strategically to benefit the station financially. Change is never easy, and we will miss those leaving, but we hope listeners will embrace the new presenters," he said.

Radio and television personality Velani “Vee” Mthembu joins Nonhlanhla “Mroza” Buthelezi on the breakfast show, bringing fresh energy to kick-start the day.

Image: Facebook/Vee Mthembu

Prime-time adjustments include Nonhlanhla "Mroza" Buthelezi and new co-host Velani "Vee" Mthembu taking over the Vuka Breakfast Show (6–9am).

Mthembu joins the station from Soweto-based Jozi FM, replacing popular presenter Sipho "DJ Sgqemeza" Mbatha, who is no longer part of the lineup. The multi-talented Mthembu said joining Ukhozi FM feels like coming home, as he had always wanted to be part of the station.

"Mafresh, Mdonso since they are here know very well how long I have wanted to work for this station. I thank the station I come from as they gave me the exposure for Ukhozi to see me. I am very confident of the work I will do," said Mthembu.

Mid-morning remains anchored by veteran Dudu "Lady D" Khoza (9am–12pm) Monday to Thursday, while Thembeka Zondo-Cele takes Fridays. The midday slot is now hosted by Zimiphi “Zim Dollar” Biyela and Sphe Live, a new recruit from Gagasi FM. Tshatha Ngobe retains the drivetime slot with new co-host Sthandwa Nzuza.

+Other additions include Msizi Maphumulo, Mhlali Khanyile, Lindokuhle Ntombela, and sports presenter Simtho Dladla. Clarissa Mfeka and Nokwanda Tema will provide traffic updates. The station will honour Mandla Mdletshe on his retirement, while the weekend maskandi show Sigiya ngeNgoma returns with Vusizwe Langa and Bingelela Mpanza.

Mthabela highlighted the importance of evolving programming in a competitive media landscape. "We are a public service broadcaster. These changes ensure we meet listener needs while sustaining growth. The entire radio industry is adapting, and it’s an exciting time for South African audiences," he said.

Former Metro FM and Ukhozi FM presenter Zeal Dladla who has joined Soweto-based Jozi FM.

Image: Facebook

The reshuffle coincides with wider industry changes: Jozi FM welcomes former Metro FM and Ukhozi FM's Zeal Dladla who now host its Big Breakfast Show; Gagasi FM introduces Linda "Mr Magic" Sibiya for its weekday 5–9am slot and a Sunday gospel show, and the return of Mzo "Mzokoloko" Gumede from Vuma FM for their midday show.

Metro FM adds veteran Siyabonga "Scoop" Ngwekazi as co-host with Nomuzi “Moozlie” Mabena for Friday and Saturday shows.