SA: RiSA unveils SAMA32 Music Video and Record of the Year nominees

The awards ceremony, branded as the SAMA32 Homecoming Edition, is scheduled to take place at the Sun City Superbowl in South Africa's North West Province on 15 August 2026.

The announcement marks the latest phase of the awards programme, with voting now open for Record of the Year, one of the few SAMA categories determined entirely by public vote.

SAMA spokesperson Unathi Gwija said the nominations marked the start of the final build-up to the awards ceremony.

“The Road to SAMA32 has officially begun, and if these nominations are anything to go by, South Africa is in for an extraordinary celebration of musical excellence. The SAMA32 will take place on Saturday, 15 August 2026, at the Sun City Superbowl, North West Province.”

Gwija also said the awards continue to promote the North West Province as a destination for tourism and cultural events.

“As one of South Africa's flagship cultural events, SAMA32 Homecoming Edition continues to showcase the power of music to position destinations, attract visitors and unlock inclusive economic growth. Hosted at the iconic Sun City Resort, the awards invite audiences to experience the North West as more than a host destination – it is a place where entertainment, culture, heritage and adventure converge.

“From immersive cultural experiences and authentic local cuisine to breath-taking landscapes and unforgettable hospitality, SAMA32 inspires travellers to explore the province while reinforcing the North West's standing as one of Africa's leading leisure, events and entertainment destinations.”

Voting for Record of the Year is now open via SMS, with the winner to be decided by the South African public.

The Music Video of the Year category recognises achievements in music video production, while Record of the Year highlights commercially successful releases and audience support through public voting.

RiSA has also confirmed that tickets for the awards ceremony are now on sale.

Music Video of the Year

• K.O – ‘Pharadise’
• MaWhoo – ‘Bengicela’
• Makhadzi – ‘Number 1’
• Naledi Aphiwe – ‘Romeo and Juliet’
• Tyla – ‘Bliss’

Record of the Year

• K.O – ‘Push It’
• MaWhoo – ‘Bengicela’
• Naledi Aphiwe – ‘Romeo and Juliet’
• Makhadzi – ‘Number 1’
• Tyla – ‘Bliss’
• Kabza De Small – ‘Bab Motha’
• Cassper Nyovest – ‘Kusho Bani’
• Kelvin Momo – ‘Uhambo’
• Zee Nxumalo – ‘Ngisakuthanda’
• Dlala Thukzin – ‘Mali’