By STAFF REPORTER
23 June 2026 – The South African Music Awards (SAMA32) is proud to announce that the nominees for this year’s awards will be revealed on 25 June 2026 through a hybrid announcement ceremony that will bring together members of the music industry, media, stakeholders, and music lovers from across the country. Dubbed the “Homecoming Edition”, SAMA32 marks a significant return to the North West province, celebrating the rich cultural heritage, creative excellence, and enduring contribution of South African music to the nation’s social and economic development.
The awards ceremony will be hosted in the North West province through a strategic partnership between the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, South African Tourism and the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), SAMPRA, SAMRO, RAV, and RiSA whose support continues to strengthen the role of music as a catalyst for tourism, investment, and cultural exchange.
SAMA spokesperson, Unati Gwija said the nomination announcement on 25 June 2026, will unveil the artists, albums, producers, composers and industry professionals who have distinguished themselves through outstanding musical achievement during the eligibility period. Gwija said the event will offer audiences both physical and digital access, ensuring
broad participation and engagement from stakeholders throughout South Africa and beyond.
“The Homecoming Edition represents more than an awards ceremony. It is a celebration of South African creativity, resilience and innovation. By returning to the North West province, we are creating opportunities to showcase the region’s tourism attractions, cultural assets and economic potential, while honouring the remarkable achievements of our musicians.
“The SAMAs remain the country’s premier music recognition platform, celebrating excellence across genres while highlighting the vital role music plays in shaping South Africa’s cultural identity and global reputation. The partnership with the North West province aligns with broader efforts to position music and cultural events as drivers of local economic development, job creation, destination marketing and community pride,” she said.
Gwija further said through the Homecoming Edition, SAMA32 aims to strengthen the connection between music, heritage, tourism, and sustainable growth. She added that music fans, industry practitioners, media partners and stakeholders are encouraged to follow the official SAMA platforms for updates, nominee announcements and information regarding the main awards events scheduled to take place later this year in the province.
“As the countdown begins, South Africa prepares to celebrate another year of musical excellence, innovation, and storytelling through the voices and sounds that continue to inspire the nation.
The Guardian 