Oskido to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award at SAMA32 in Sun City

Oscar Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa, better known as Oskido, will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32). The ceremony is scheduled for 15 August 2026 at the Sun City Superbowl in the North West province and will be broadcast live on SABC and streamed on YouTube.

Oskido’s career spans more than two decades and has shaped South Africa’s dance‑music landscape. He co‑founded Kalawa Jazmee Records, the label that launched acts such as Mafikizolo and Bongo Maffin, and has been a driving force behind the popularisation of Kwaito, Afro‑house and the newer amapiano genre. In 2024 he received the RiSA Chairperson’s Award at SAMA30, recognising his influence as a producer, DJ, record executive and cultural pioneer.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to artists and industry figures whose work has had a lasting impact on successive generations. SAMA spokesperson Unati Gwija explained that the award “is more than a recognition of longevity; it is a celebration of those whose artistry has shaped the soundtrack of our nation, inspired generations and paved the way for the next wave of South African talent.”

SAMA32 is supported by a mix of public and private partners. The Motsepe Foundation, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, SA Tourism, SABC, SAMPRA, SAMRO, CAPASSO, the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) and RiSA Audio Visual are all listed as backers. The event is expected to boost tourism and local economic activity by drawing music fans, industry professionals, media and other visitors to the province.

Gwija added that the awards “invite visitors to experience the North West’s world‑class attractions, rich cultural heritage and renowned hospitality, ensuring that the economic and social benefits of SAMA32 extend well beyond the awards stage.”

The Sun City Superbowl is a well‑known venue that has hosted the SAMAs for most years since the awards’ inception in 1995. The complex, situated near Rustenburg and the Pilanesberg National Park, offers a large stage and modern facilities that accommodate high‑profile performances.

Oskido’s recognition at SAMA32 follows a pattern of the awards celebrating figures who have helped shape South Africa’s music industry. The SAMAs, organised by the Recording Industry of South Africa, honour the best albums, music videos and songs released in the country each year. The awards have been broadcast on national television and streamed online, making them a key platform for industry visibility.

The Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented during the main ceremony, which will feature live performances from nominated artists and special guests. While the full list of performers has not yet been released, the event is expected to showcase a mix of established acts and emerging talent.

The award ceremony is part of a broader strategy to position the North West province as a cultural hub. By hosting the SAMAs, the province aims to attract visitors, support local businesses and promote its tourism assets. The partnership between government, industry bodies and private sponsors underscores the importance of music as an economic driver.

Oskido’s career highlights include the launch of Kalawa Jazmee in 1995, the production of hit tracks that defined the Kwaito era, and the nurturing of new artists who have become household names. His influence extends beyond production; he has been involved in music education initiatives and has advocated for better support for South African musicians.

The announcement of Oskido’s Lifetime Achievement Award has been confirmed by the SAMAs and by the Recording Industry of South Africa. No further details about the award ceremony’s program have been released at this time.

The 32nd South African Music Awards will take place on 15 August 2026. Attendees can expect a celebration of South Africa’s musical heritage, with Oskido’s Lifetime Achievement Award serving as a highlight of the event.