Tyla Receives SAMA32 International Achievement Award, Calls for a Unified Africa

Tyla received the AfriPure International Achievement Award at the Sun City Superbowl on Saturday, August 15, 2026.

In 2024 Tyla won the award, but did not attend the event. She and Black Coffee have won the International Achievement Award twice. In her acceptance speech, Tyla said:

“Hello, South Africa!, I can’t even explain the feeling I have right now standing on this stage. This is my first time at the SAMAs,” 

Tyla has won two American Music Awards in two categories: Best Afrobeats Artist and Social Song of the Year. 

Photo: Getty Images

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After the award was presented, she invited Makhadzi, Cassper Nyovest, Zee Nxumalo, Maglera Doe Boy, Langa Mavuso, Babalwa M, Lordkez, and Xduppy to share the stage with her. 

Tyla described African music and culture as rich and said she was grateful to stand on the shoulders of artists who had inspired her career. 

“Our music, our culture is so rich, and I’m so proud of everybody,” 

Photo: Getty Images

In a call for unity, she said: 

”And I am just so happy to be South African. I’m happy to be African most of all. I pray one day to see a unified Africa. It’s so important,”

At SAMA32, Tyla’s appearance celebrated both her achievements and the wider influence of African music. Her call for a unified Africa added a broader significance to the occasion, showing the importance of celebrating African artists and cultures across the continent.