Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, applauds all artists including those from Gauteng who emerged as winners at the 32nd edition of the South African Music Awards (SAMA32), on 15 August 2026.
“On behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government, we congratulate all the artists, producers, songwriters and composers who are from Gauteng for winning at the SAMAs. The recognition given to these artists once again affirm the province’s undisputed role as the creative heartbeat of South Africa and a leading incubator of talent on the African continent. Many artists from across the country continue to move to the province to boost their chances in the industry because of our recording facilities, broadcast networks and performing venues amongst others”, said MEC Maile.
“Recognising all those who are involved in music this way is validation of their commitment to their craft and should boost their confidence and desire to achieve more whilst ensuring that they take others along with them in their journey of success”.
“We are particularly excited as well that Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. There is no doubt that Oskido deserved this accolade as one of the pioneering figures in the music industry from our Province. It is a double recognition for him after he was recently bestowed with the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver by President Cyril Ramaphosa”.
“Adding the Lifetime Achievement Award to the many honors Oskido has received is an affirmation of the contribution and investment he has made both as an artist and a businessman who shaped the careers of many in the industry”, added MEC Maile.
“We also acknowledge one of our international stars, Tyla, for receiving the International Achievement Award. The Grammy award winner was recognized for the outstanding impact she has had on the global stage as an artist”.
We witnessed Ubuntu in practice and impressed when Tyla, after receiving her award, called fellow artists onto the stage to celebrate the moment with her. This affirmed their presence and contribution to the music space and should not be taken as an ordinary moment. It is such acts of kindness and recognition of others by a global star that will help open doors and encourage them to do more”, emphasized the MEC.
MEC Maile further encouraged creatives, especially those in music, to take advantage of the evolution brought about by the digitalization era to occupy their space. “Music continues to evolve, especially considering how it is produced, disseminated and consumed, thus creating opportunities for all involved in the entire ecosystem and contributing to the growth of economies”.
“Gauteng remains the heartbeat of our nation’s creative economy, and local talent needs to be developed and recognized in our endeavor to shape and grow the creative industry in our province. Indeed, Gauteng is the Home of Champions”, concluded MEC Maile.
