The 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32) brought South Africa’s music industry together at the Sun City Superbowl in the North West on August 15. There were several key moments that stood out during the event. 

Anele Zondo and L-Tido’s Kiss

Photo: Instagram

Anele Zondo and L-Tido shared a kiss on stage while presenting the Best Amapiano Album award. The kiss quickly became a talking point online. The two have been making headlines since confirming their relationship after months of speculation. 

Read Also: Thandiswa Mazwai Wins Four SAMA Awards for Sankofa

Some Major Stars Were Missing 

The absence of major names such as Kabza De Small, Nasty C, DJ Maphorisa and Umafikizolo became one of the talking points at SAMA32. Kabza won Best Amapiano Album but was not there to collect his award, Umafikizolo also missed the ceremony despite winning Album of the Year. 

Tyla’s Speech on Stage

Photo: Instagram

Tyla was honoured with the AfriPure International Achievement Award. During her acceptance speech, Tyla spoke about how she looked forward to attending the SAMAs. She also talked about her South African roots and called for unity in the continent. Tyla invited Cassper Nyovest, Makhadzi and Zee Nxumalo. 

Cassper Nyovest Steps Up as Host

Photo: Instagram

Cassper Nyovest co-hosted the event with Zanele Potelwa. His appointment sparked interest, given his previous disputes with the awards, and he joined Lordkez for a performance. 

From an unexpected onstage kiss to Tyla’s call for African unity, SAMA32 delivered several moments that extended beyond the night’s awards.

 Lamiez Holworthy-Morule has been taken to hospital where she is undergoing an operation. Her management confirmed the news, saying her condition is not life-threatening. 

The incident has forced Lamiez to put her professional commitments on hold. She was scheduled to attend several events in August, but they are all on hold.

According to a statement from her management, Lamiez required urgent medical attention. However, no details are given.

Photo: Instagram/@lamiez_holworthy

Her management has confirmed that the situation is stable, although time is needed further to recuperate fully. They said:

“Lamiez Holworthy was rushed to hospital and required an emergency surgical procedure,” 

Event promoters, organisers, clients and partners involved in her upcoming bookings will need to adjust their plans following the unexpected medical emergency. 

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Meanwhile, management said events cancelled will be rescheduled once Lamiez has recovered. The new dates will depend on when she is cleared by the medical staff authorities. Their statement reads: 

“This will affect remaining events tonight and on August 10…. “

Photo: Instagram/@lamiez_holworthy

Furthermore, fans have shown concern since the news  became public. There have been several messages of support and good. wishes  shared online. Teboho Matima tweeted:

“Wish you a speedy recovery soon 🙏 our entertainer”

However, Lamiez’s management has not disclosed additional medical information. They request for understanding saying:

“We kindly ask that her privacy be respected.. .”

The entertainer’s temporary break from work shows the uncertainty that can come with an emergency medical situation. Despite having a busy professional calendar, her aim is  recovering from the surgery.

Bonang Matheba will receive the Trailblazer Award at the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards to recognise her contribution to South African entertainment.

The ceremony will be hosted by Anele Zondo, Moozlie, Unathi, and Lerato Kganyago. This 2026 ceremony marks the fifth edition and is now a two-night celebration. The Vanguard Circle and Main Awards are part of the event.

Artists that will perform at the event include : Lira, Kelly Khumalo, Nothando Hlophe, MaWhoo, Thatohatsi, and Makhadzi.  For Artist of the Year, Tyla, Ayra Starr, MaWhoo are among the top nominees. 

Photo: Instagram

Responding to the award, Matheba said;

“Thank you to the Basadi in Music Awards for this incredible honour. To be recognised alongside women who’ve shaped this industry is a privilege I don’t take for granted.”

Matheba became the first South African celebrity to launch an online reality show and was named one of Forbes’ 50 Most Powerful Women in Africa. 

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Matheba has attended various international events. Some events she attended are the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity (2026) and Miss Cosmo Grand Finale in Vietnam (2025)

The organisers have introduced a Pan-African expansion for the fifth edition. Selected categories allow artists, creators, and other professionals beyond South Africa to participate. 

Photo:Instagram

The main awards feature 28 categories covering different areas. Public voting for the competitive categories has closed, with the results verified before the ceremony.

According to the Basadi in Music Awards rules, the organisers can give additional honorary awards through a special committee. The award will be presented during the ceremony at Joburg Theatre on August 8. The theme is Rewind and the campaign Africa to the World.