After four years away, the South African Music Awards are officially returning “home” to the North West Province for what organisers are calling a major celebration of South African music and culture.
The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) confirmed that the 32nd edition of the SAMAs will take place on 15 August 2026 in the North West Province, marking a significant return for one of the country’s biggest entertainment events.
North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation MEC Galerekwe Tsotso Tlhapi made the announcement and expressed excitement about welcoming the awards ceremony back to the province.
“It feels like yesterday when we hosted the 28th instalment of the SAMAs here in North West. This province has always been a proud and capable host, and we are ready once again to welcome the nation,” she said.
Tlhapi added that the return of the awards represents more than just another event on the entertainment calendar, describing it as a renewed celebration of the province’s cultural energy, hospitality and creative infrastructure.
The province previously hosted the awards in 2022, when personalities including Nandi Madida, Lawrence Maleka, Mpho Popps and Robot Boii led the ceremony at the Sun City SuperBowl over two nights.
However, the 28th edition faced heavy criticism at the time due to reports of disorganisation, disputes surrounding category winners and low attendance from several artists and industry figures. The backlash ultimately led to changes behind the scenes, including the removal of the team responsible for media and publicity management.
The following year also brought challenges for the SAMAs. Plans to move the event to Durban reportedly collapsed after provincial funding was withdrawn, forcing organisers to stage the 29th edition at the SunBet Arena in Menlyn Maine, Pretoria.
In recent years, the awards ceremony has faced growing pressure to restore its reputation and reconnect with audiences after criticism over production quality, organisation and industry participation.
The 30th and 31st editions were hosted at Gallagher Estate, but last year’s ceremony again sparked online discussion, with some viewers questioning whether preparations had been rushed.
Despite the challenges, organisers say major efforts are already underway to ensure that the 32nd edition delivers a stronger and more polished production experience.
SAMA spokesperson Unathi Gwija revealed that stakeholder consultations have already begun as planning intensifies ahead of the ceremony.
“We have already begun extensive stakeholder consultations in preparation for the SAMAs. There is a strong sense of excitement and unity as we return to the North West, a province that has proven itself as an exceptional host,” Gwija explained.
With the awards returning to familiar ground, MEC Tlhapi has described the upcoming ceremony as a “homecoming edition,” celebrating not only music and legacy, but also the continued evolution and global growth of South African sound.
