South African singer-songwriter Makhanj has officially lifted the curtain on her highly anticipated debut album, Transkei, by revealing its full tracklist ahead of its release on 5 August 2026. Following the announcement of the project earlier this month, the talented vocalist has now given fans a closer look at what promises to be one of the year’s most exciting local releases.
Taking to Instagram, Makhanj shared the official tracklist along with a heartfelt message that reflects the spirit behind the album and the people who helped bring it to life.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. No journey is complete without the people who shape it. Here’s the official TRANSKEI tracklist. 5 August 2026, the journey continues. #600kilometrestogo.”
The album features an impressive lineup of some of South Africa’s most respected musicians and producers, highlighting Makhanj’s growing influence within the music industry. Among the collaborators are Sipho Magudulela, Bella Tee, Babalwa M, Stixx, Atmos Blaq, ShaunMusiq, Thatohatsi, Mellow & Sleazy, Carter IV, DJy Vino, Tumza D’Kota, Optimist Music ZA, Shakes & Les, Nia Pearl, Khalil Harrison, Jay Sax, JNR SA, The Buu and Deeper Phil, among others.
The official tracklist includes:
- Amandla Am featuring Sipho Magudulela & Bella Tee
- Ndimincile featuring D’Braz
- Kela featuring Babalwa M & Stixx
- Phepha Abanye featuring Atmos Blaq
- Mzala featuring ShaunMusiq
- Bhaqiwe featuring Thatohatsi, Mellow & Sleazy & Carter IV
- Ngoku featuring DJy Vino, Tumza D’Kota, Ndibo Ndibs & Cue Lone
- Imali Ikhona featuring Shakes & Les, Optimist Music ZA & Mzizi
- Andiyekanga featuring Nia Pearl, Khalil Harrison & Jay Sax
- Khanindifake featuring Zani
- Baleka featuring JNR SA
- Andoyiki featuring Mphoet, Mellow & Sleazy, Maten & The Buu
- Kukuwe featuring Stixx & Deeper Phil
The diverse collaborations suggest that Transkei will showcase a rich blend of Amapiano, soulful melodies and African-inspired sounds while remaining deeply rooted in Makhanj’s identity and heritage.
Makhanj has steadily established herself as one of South Africa’s most versatile artists. In addition to being a gifted singer and songwriter, she is also a qualified attorney who has successfully balanced her professional career with her passion for music. Since entering the Amapiano scene through collaborations with DBN Gogo, she has continued to work alongside industry heavyweights including Kelvin Momo, Kabza De Small, Musa Keys and Major League DJz, while also earning songwriting credits with Grammy-winning global star Tyla.
With such a powerful lineup of collaborators and a deeply personal concept inspired by her roots, Transkei is shaping up to be a landmark debut. Fans are eagerly counting down to 5 August, when they will finally experience the complete journey Makhanj has carefully crafted.
If the tracklist is any indication, Transkei has all the ingredients to become one of the standout South African albums of 2026.
