After four years, the South African Music Awards (Samas) are officially heading back “home” to the North West Province.
The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) announced that the 32nd edition of the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) would return to the North West Province on August 15, 2026.
North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation MEC, Galerekwe Tsotso Tlhapi, made the announcement and could not hide her excitement at the return of South Africa’s premier music celebration.
“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 added that the return of the SAMAs marks not just an event, but a renewed celebration of the province’s cultural energy, hospitality, and creative infrastructure.
In 2022, Nandi Madida, Lawrence Maleka, Mpho Popps and Robot Boii hosted the event that took place over two nights at the Sun City SuperBowl. The Sama28 ceremony, however, was marred by bad publicity due to disorganisation, criticism of the category winners, and lack of attendance from musicians.
The team that was handling the media and publicity behind the Samas was then let go, and for the 29th edition, a new team was roped in, but things were not smooth sailing. A move to Durban was meant to happen as the provincial government withdrew its funding.
As a result, the SAMA 29 main ceremony took place on November 18, 2023, at the SunBet Arena in Menlyn Maine, Pretoria, but they were not the best ceremony.
The Samas have been working hard on rebuilding from the tough few years they have had. The 30th and 31st editions were held at the Gallagher Estate in Midrand, but last year’s edition, held in December, had many wondering if organisers decided to put everything together at the last minute.
There is, however, hope for the 32nd edition with Sama spokesperson Unathi Gwija, assuring that preparations are already underway, with key stakeholder engagements taking place to ensure a seamless and unforgettable production.
“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.”
With the SAMAs returning to familiar ground, MEC Tlhapi is describing SAMA 32 as a “homecoming edition,” a celebration of music, legacy, and the continued evolution of South African sound on its biggest stage.
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Oluthando Keteyi
iol.co.za
