Celebrating 10 Years of Jazz Excellence – Winners Announced!

We did it AGAIN!!!

Pretoria, South Africa – The 10th South Africa Jazz Awards, affectionately known as the Mzantsi Jazz Awards, lit up the South African State Theatre on the 15th of August with a night of unforgettable music, heartfelt tributes, and joyous celebration.

This year’s milestone event was filled with vibrant performances, enthusiastic winners, and powerful words from artists who continue to shape the story of jazz in our country. The evening proved once again that jazz is alive, strong, and deeply rooted in our heritage.

Last year’s celebration bridged generations, bringing together young heirs of South African jazz like Rorisang Sechele and Lauren Manning, alongside elders who have carried the torch since the 1950s. This year continued that spirit of unity, showing how jazz connects past, present, and future.

Performances and tributes

The stage came alive with performances by Thembi Dunjana, Salphina Kadiaka, Mimi Mtshali, Kabelo Boy Mokhatla, and Sibusiso Jack Lerole Jnr, leaving the audience thrilled and inspired. In a moving moment, the jazz community bowed its head in tribute to fallen heroes including Fitzroy Ngcukana, “Stompie” Manana, Estelle Kokot, Abdullah Ibrahim, Pops Mohamed, and others whose legacies will never fade.

Founder and Managing Director Dr Mongezi C. Makhalima shared:

“Music won tonight, yet again. The rebranding from Mzantsi Jazz Awards to South Africa Jazz Awards gives this celebration even greater meaning, as it represents the whole Republic of South Africa.”

The evening was guided with warmth and energy by returning MC MoAfrika wa Mokgathi, while Mdu Mtshali brought together a stellar group of musicians to anchor the performances.

Winners in each category

Mdu Mtshali - Best Contemporary Jazz Album - Okae Molao Sibusiso Jack Lerole Jnr - Best Traditional Jazz Album - Tribute to Jack Lerole Tutu Puoane - Best Female Jazz Artist Andile Yenana - Best Male Jazz Artist Lindi Ngonelo - Best Newcomer in Jazz - In a Man's World Kabelo Boy Mokhatla - Best International Jazz Collaboration Album/Song - Dot Series Ola Onabulé - Best International Jazz Album/Artist - It's Never Over Kabelo El Chen Mogale - Best Jazz Song - Ishoba Labangoma Dotun Bankole - Best African Jazz Album/Artist - OLÙGBÀLÀ Mams Radio 92.9 - Best Radio Station Promoting Jazz Siyanqoba Mthethwa - Best Jazz Album - Inevitable (Jazz Edition)

The 10th South Africa Jazz Awards was more than just an event – it was a living testimony to the brilliance of jazz, honoring those who carry the rhythm forward and those whose melodies remain in our hearts forever.

ENDS