Trace has officially announced a major rebrand: Trace Africa is becoming Trace Ngoma, a bold new identity designed to highlight South Africa’s diverse cultural and musical heartbeat. The change, made in partnership with Canal+ and MultiChoice, marks a renewed commitment to showcasing South African music in all its colour, rhythm, and evolution.
The newly renamed channel will launch on 18 December 2025 on DStv Channel 326, bringing with it a fresh look, refreshed programming, and a deeper focus on local identity.
A Name Rooted in Heritage and Rhythm
The name “Ngoma” holds meaning across several African cultures, symbolising drums, rhythm, unity, and communal celebration. It speaks to the heartbeat of the nation and reflects the very foundation of South African sound. Trace Ngoma aims to capture this spirit by fully embracing the country’s musical richness — from grassroots genres to chart-topping hits.
According to the network, the new direction reflects the powerful relationship South Africans have with their music. It is a space built around pride, identity, and cultural expression. The channel wants young people to see themselves and their stories reflected on screen, and for their music to be celebrated both at home and abroad.
A Platform for Every South African Sound
Trace Ngoma will celebrate an extensive range of genres, deliberately casting a wide net to ensure all parts of South African culture are represented. The channel will highlight:
Amapiano – the global phenomenon born in the townships
Afro-pop – blending tradition with contemporary melodies
Maskandi – rooted in Zulu identity and storytelling
Hip-hop – showcasing lyrical skill and street culture
Gqom – the raw, electrifying sound of the coast
Lekompo – a rising and uniquely local style
Urban gospel – where faith meets modern beats
This lineup reflects a country where sound changes from province to province, street to street, and generation to generation. It also gives the next generation of artists — especially those outside mainstream radio — a platform big enough to carry their voices nationwide.
Why the Rebrand Matters
MultiChoice CEO Willington Ngwepe explained that the update responds directly to what viewers have been asking for: representation. Fans want to see content that feels authentically South African — not watered down, not generic, but true to who they are.
“People want to see their culture, their music, and their languages celebrated,” he said. Trace Ngoma aims to do exactly that, offering a window into the soul of the nation.
Beyond entertainment, this rebrand also comes at a time when discussions around local content, identity, and cultural ownership are at an all-time high. South African music continues to dominate global charts — from amapiano’s meteoric rise to the international influence of local hip-hop and Afro-soul artists. Trace Ngoma positions itself as a channel that not only broadcasts the music but honours the culture that created it.
New Programming, New Energy
The new Trace Ngoma lineup will include a mix of music video blocks, countdowns, themed genre shows, live performances, DJ mixes, artist profiles, and documentary-style storytelling.
Viewers can expect:
Amapiano-focused shows celebrating the genre’s global reach
Maskandi specials spotlighting traditional artists
Hip-hop blocks highlighting both new school and old school acts
Urban gospel sessions tapping into the country’s spiritual sound
Younger, fresher presenters that reflect the energy of the youth
The approach is intentional: to make Trace Ngoma feel like a place where all South Africans — regardless of age or background — can find their rhythm.
A Channel Built for the Next Generation of Artists
The music industry continues to evolve, and Trace Ngoma arrives at a time when digital platforms and streaming have transformed how artists break into the mainstream. A television channel dedicated to amplifying local talent provides a crucial bridge between young creators and the broader public.
For emerging artists, Trace Ngoma offers:
Higher visibility
Access to a national audience
A platform to share authentic stories
Opportunities to build long-term fanbases
For established stars, it provides a space to celebrate their roots while connecting with new listeners.
A New Beat Begins
The transition from Trace Africa to Trace Ngoma signals more than a cosmetic upgrade — it’s a cultural shift. It is a recognition of South Africa’s powerful, evolving soundscape and a celebration of the stories woven into every beat.
As the channel officially switches to its new identity on 18 December, viewers can expect not just music, but a creative space where South Africa sees, hears, and celebrates itself.
