SABC2 Celebrates Five Years of the Basadi in Music Awards
SABC2 is proud to celebrate the fifth edition of the Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) with two nights of music, […]
Black News 
SABC2 is proud to celebrate the fifth edition of the Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) with two nights of music, recognition and celebration, broadcasting the Main Awards on Saturday, 29 August 2026 at 21:00, followed by the Vanguard Awards on Sunday, 30 August 2026 at 21:00. The broadcasts will also be available on SABC Plus.
Marking five years of recognising women who continue to shape South Africa’s music and entertainment landscape, the Basadi in Music Awards has established itself as one of the country’s leading platforms dedicated to celebrating women across the creative industries. The 2026 milestone edition honours the journey that has brought the awards to this significant chapter, while looking ahead to the next generation of African talent.
Under the anniversary theme “REWIND Your BIMA, Your Way,” the celebrations took place at the iconic Joburg Theatre, bringing together some of the most influential and talented women in South African entertainment.
The Vanguard Awards, night one, celebrated women across the broader entertainment ecosystem, recognising the contribution of professionals working in artist management, journalism, radio, television, beauty, fashion, podcasting and other creative disciplines.
Adding to the significance of the anniversary celebration, on the main awards, was a historic reunion of four powerhouse women in entertainment: Unathi, Moozlie, Anele Zondo and Lerato Kganyago, who took to the stage as hosts. Their reunion brought together different chapters of South Africa’s entertainment history and captured the essence of the REWIND theme, reflecting on the moments, women and achievements that have shaped the industry while creating space for what comes next.
The Joburg Theatre stage was transformed into a celebration of African musical excellence, with performances showcasing different generations, genres and musical styles.
Viewers can look forward to performances by Kelly Khumalo, Thatohatsi, Monique Bingham, Makhadzi, Lira, Nia Pearl, MaWhoo, Nothando Hlophe and Anele Zondo.
Among the evening’s biggest winners was MaWhoo, who took home two major honours: Amapiano Artist of the Year and the Highest Airplay Award for her hit Bengicela. Other notable winners included Kelly Khumalo, who claimed Afro Pop Artist of the Year; Zee Nxumalo, who was named Artist of the Year; Mmatema, who won Gospel Artist of the Year; and Bonang Matheba, who received the prestigious Trailblazer of the Year Award.
The fifth anniversary celebration reinforces the importance of creating platforms that acknowledge the achievements, influence and contribution of women within South Africa’s music and entertainment industries.
SABC2 invites audiences to REWIND, celebrate and experience the fifth anniversary of the Basadi in Music Awards.
Tune in to SABC2 this Saturday and Sunday at 21:00 and celebrate five years of the Basadi in Music Awards.
