The National Funeral Business Awards (NFBA) will host its second annual awards ceremony on 1 April 2026 at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC). Founded by Muzi Hlengwa, the awards aim to honour outstanding service and professionalism within South Africa’s funeral industry.
Nominations for the 2026 NFBA are officially open and will run from Tuesday, 27 January to 1 April 2026.
Why it matters to you
The NFBA offers national recognition for funeral parlours, undertakers, and industry practitioners who deliver dignified, professional services to communities across South Africa.
For funeral businesses, a nomination represents trust, credibility, and industry leadership — especially in an often-overlooked essential services sector.
What you need to know
Nomination period:
- Opens: Tuesday, 27 January 2026
- Closes: Tuesday, 1 April 2026
Awards process:
- Adjudication: Includes a formal panel review of nominees
- Two voting rounds:
- Public vote
- Industry vote by funeral practitioners
- Best Funeral of the Year: 100% adjudicated for fairness and transparency
Awards categories will recognise achievements in innovation, integrity, service excellence, and community impact.
What you should do next
If you work in the funeral industry:
- Submit your nomination before the deadline
- Encourage clients and community members to participate in public voting
- Prepare for the awards weekend by booking accommodation and event passes
If you’re a member of the public:
- Watch for updates on public voting dates
- Support your local funeral service providers by casting your vote
2026 Awards Weekend Programme
Friday – 27 March 2026
- Adventure activities: horse riding, quad biking, bungee jumping
- City ride: Starts at Moses Mabhida Stadium
- eThekwini tour on the Richo Bus
- Evening social: Max Lifestyle
Saturday – 28 March 2026
- Nominee breakfast session
- Golf networking session for undertakers
- Gala dinner celebrating 2025 winners and showcasing industry excellence
Sunday – 29 March 2026
- Stakeholder engagement breakfast in Umhlanga
- Platform for strategic dialogue and future growth
Awards Ceremony Details
| Item | Time |
|---|---|
| Gates open | 2:00 PM |
| Red carpet & photo booth | From 2:00 PM |
| Doors close (no late entry) | 5:30 PM sharp |
| Main awards ceremony | 6:00 PM |
“The National Funeral Business Awards remain committed to recognising excellence, integrity, and service within the funeral industry, while honouring those who have paid the ultimate price in service to humanity.”
— Muzi Hlengwa, NFBA Founder
