The Tukuza Gospel Awards have officially drawn 815 nominees across 69 categories for its upcoming third edition. Revealing the astonishing figure to Mpasho journalist Moses Sagwe, Tukuza Awards Chief Executive Officer and Founder Bonti Milimo confirmed that preparations are complete for the annual gala.
The ceremony will take place on Sunday, 29 November 2026, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.
The platform was originally established in 2005 by Milimo as an interdenominational Christian initiative. Its primary vision was to identify, appreciate, and empower upcoming gospel talent across Kenya.
Over the past two years, the recognition event has expanded rapidly across the country.
"The growing number of nominees reflects the platform’s continued efforts to recognise talent, celebrate excellence and promote positive impact within Kenya’s gospel music and faith-based creative industry," Milimo said.
Impressive Growth Across Three Editions
The inaugural gala held at the KICC attracted approximately 2,500 attendees and featured 464 nominees across 86 categories.
The second gala recorded an attendance of approximately 3,100 people, with 564 nominees competing across 72 categories.
For the 2026 edition, the total number of nominees has climbed to 815 across 69 categories.
"The third edition follows two successful galas that brought together thousands of attendees and recognised hundreds of nominees across various categories," Bonti Milimo told Mpasho.
"The increased attendance and number of nominees demonstrated the platform’s growing reach and its potential to bring together artists, industry stakeholders, faith communities and audiences."
Tangible Rewards for Winners
This year, organisers are moving beyond standard trophies to provide practical career support for gospel artistes. Among the rewards lined up for winners are holiday tours, scholarship opportunities, video and audio recording deals, and shopping vouchers.
"The initiative seeks to make recognition meaningful by connecting outstanding performers and other industry players with opportunities that can help them develop their skills, advance their careers and expand their reach," Milimo explained.
He added that access to professional recording deals and video production is particularly valuable for gospel artistes aiming to strengthen their visibility and improve the quality of their work.
"Beyond recognition and trophies, the third edition of Tukuza Awards promises winners opportunities designed to support their professional growth and personal development."
With the 29 November gala approaching, all 815 nominees are awaiting the final outcome at KICC. Organisers emphasise that the event remains dedicated to celebrating faith, creativity, and purpose-driven living.
