The South African music industry celebrated its biggest achievements at the 32nd annual South African Music Awards (SAMA32), which took place on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Sun City Super Bowl in the North West. Global South African star Tyla received the AfriPure International Achievement Award for the second time, marking her first time on the SAMAs stage. In her acceptance speech, the two-time Grammy winner expressed her honor.
The ceremony, hosted by Casper Nyovest and Zanele Potelwa, honored artists who continue to shape the country’s unique sound. Among the night’s big winners, KwaZulu-Natal-born gospel singer and songwriter HLE took home both ‘Album of the Year’ and ‘Female Artist of the Year’ for ‘The Ground We’re On’. Kabza De Small was recognized with the ‘Best Amapiano Album’ award for ‘Bab’Motha’, highlighting the genre’s continued dominance.
Key Players Involved
- Tyla: Received the AfriPure International Achievement Award.
- Kabza De Small: Won ‘Best Amapiano Album’ for ‘Bab’Motha’.
- HLE: Won ‘Album of the Year’ and ‘Female Artist of the Year’.
- Casper Nyovest & Zanele Potelwa: Hosts of SAMA32.
Event Timeline
- August 15, 2026: The 32nd annual South African Music Awards (SAMA32) ceremony took place at Sun City Super Bowl.
- August 17, 2026: News reports on SAMA32 winners and highlights were published.
