“The Best Afro-Pop Album category reflects the incredible depth of South African musical talent,” said South African Music Awards spokesperson Unathi Gwija.
“Every one of these artists has delivered a body of work that has connected with audiences in meaningful ways. Each has also made a significant contribution to our music industry.”
It is hard to argue with that statement.
The race for Best Afro-Pop Album at the 32nd South African Music Awards has all the ingredients of a classic showdown.
Five artists with loyal fan bases, chart-topping albums and distinct musical styles are competing for one of the night’s biggest prizes.
Lwah Ndlunkulu, CiCi, Sjava, Nomfundo Moh and Samthing Soweto have all delivered projects that resonated with fans over the past year.
Each album tells a different story, making it almost impossible to predict who will walk away with the trophy when the winners are announced at Sun City on August 15.
Dubbed the “Homecoming Edition”, SAMA32 celebrates the artists who continue to shape South African music through storytelling, creativity and performances that connect with audiences across generations.
Lwah Ndlunkulu celebrates heritage
Ndlunkulu’s “Amaciko” is more than an album. It is a celebration of culture, identity and the people who inspire creativity. The title translates to artists or creatives, and the project blends afro-pop with traditional Zulu influences in what she describes as urban maskandi.
Speaking about the nomination, the singer simply said, “Siyabonga.”
She has previously described the album as “my love letter to my ancestors and to every man and woman who carries the weight of culture and still dares to be modern and build an empire.”
That message, combined with her growing popularity, makes her one of the strongest contenders in the category.
CiCi returns to herself
CiCi’s “Busisiwe 2.0” marks her first full-length album since “Sukulila” and reflects a deeply personal chapter in her life. The project is centred on healing and rediscovering her artistic identity after years of outside influence.
“Siyabonga kakhulu,” she said after receiving the nomination.
She has explained that the album represents a return to herself rather than a reinvention.
“That’s why ‘Busisiwe 2.0’ is an album about me returning to myself because I initially surrounded myself with people who didn’t see the vision.”
Her honest songwriting and emotional performances have made the album one of the year’s standout releases.
Sjava keeps the live magic alive
Sjava approached his nomination with humour.
“Izoqhatha umndeni le nomination,” he joked, suggesting the nomination could create friendly competition among people who often work together.
His nominated project, “Inkanyezi 2.0 Live”, captures the energy and emotion of his live performances while giving fans a fresh way to experience his music.
“The first ‘Inkanyezi’ was a glimpse of what performing live means to me. This time I wanted to bring even more. More emotion and more of that powerful connection we feel when we experience the music together live and in the moment.”
Known for blending afro-pop, soul and traditional sounds, Sjava continues to prove why he remains one of South Africa’s most respected performers.
Nomfundo Moh steps outside the box
Moh lives up to the title of her EP “Out The Box” by exploring new musical territory.
The project moves between afro-pop, maskandi, R&B and dance music while still holding onto the heartfelt storytelling that has become her trademark.
Songs explore themes including heartbreak, loss and love while also embracing South Africa’s growing 3-Step sound.
Her willingness to experiment without losing her identity has earned praise from both fans and critics.
Samthing Soweto tells a story
Soweto’s “Touch Is a Move (Good Morning)” is perhaps the most conceptual album in the category. Inspired by childhood memories of growing up in Soweto during the 1990s, the project follows a young boy navigating family, friendship and life’s early lessons.
Its title comes from a childhood board game rule where touching a piece means you have to make that move. The metaphor becomes a reflection on responsibility, courage and living with the consequences of life’s choices.
Through songs, soundscapes and spoken moments, the album unfolds like a theatre production, giving listeners an immersive experience from beginning to end.
More than music
Gwija said that the impact of the South African Music Awards stretches beyond recognising artists.
“By uniting acclaimed performers, rising stars, industry stakeholders and thousands of music enthusiasts, the festival boosts tourism, stimulates the local economy and opens doors for small businesses, creative practitioners and entrepreneurs.”
She added that the event also encourages visitors to explore the North West’s attractions, culture and hospitality while strengthening the province’s reputation as a leading entertainment destination.
So who takes the trophy? That is the million-rand question.
The 32nd South African Music Awards take place on Saturday, August 15, at the Sun City Superbowl in the North West.
When the envelope is finally opened, only one name will be called. Until then, fans across the country will continue making their predictions in what promises to be one of SAMA32’s closest races.
Tickets for the event are available through Ticketpro.
