ArtistDirect News
Oskido to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award at SAMA32
On Saturday, 15 August 2026, the Sun City Superbowl will host South Africa’s most celebrated music event, the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32). The venue will shine with the presence of Oscar Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa—professionally known as Oskido—who is set to receive the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award.
Born on 29 November 1967, Oskido has spent more than 26 years reshaping South Africa’s sonic landscape. From pioneering Kwaito beyond township borders to steering the rise of Afro‑house and opening the doors for the amapiano wave, his fingerprints are on the country’s most influential sounds. As a producer, DJ, and co‑founder of Kalawa Jazmee Records, he has launched the careers of acts such as Mafikizolo and Bongo Maffin, cementing his status as a cultural entrepreneur.
The accolade is not his first nod from the industry. In 2024, at SAMA30 held on 2 November at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Gauteng, he was awarded the RiSA Chairperson’s Award. That honor highlighted his dual role as a music executive and a trailblazing producer, underscoring his impact on the industry’s evolution.
SAMA32 is presented by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) and enjoys the backing of a broad coalition of public and private partners. The Motsepe Foundation, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, SA Tourism, SABC, SAMPRA, SAMRO, CAPASSO, RiSA, and RiSA Audio‑Visual all contribute to the event’s success. Viewers across the nation will witness the ceremony on SABC1, while the live stream will be available on YouTube.
"The Lifetime Achievement Award recognises artists and industry figures whose work has shaped successive generations," says SAMA spokesperson Unati Gwija. "It 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."
Beyond the music, the awards are poised to spark significant tourism and economic activity in the North West. By drawing iconic performers, emerging talent, industry leaders, and music aficionados from across the country and beyond, the ceremony will energise local businesses, creatives, entrepreneurs and the hospitality sector. Attendees will also have the chance to explore the province’s world‑class attractions, cultural heritage and renowned hospitality.
Oskido’s Lifetime Achievement Award places him among a selective cadre of South African music figures whose careers have left an indelible mark on the industry. The recognition underscores the importance of honouring influential artists while they remain active, ensuring their stories continue to inspire.
As of now, the SAMA32 event remains confirmed for 15 August 2026 at the Sun City Superbowl, with the award ceremony set to highlight Oskido’s enduring legacy and to reinforce the North West’s position as a premier destination for music and cultural tourism.
Born on 29 November 1967, Oskido has spent more than 26 years reshaping South Africa’s sonic landscape. From pioneering Kwaito beyond township borders to steering the rise of Afro‑house and opening the doors for the amapiano wave, his fingerprints are on the country’s most influential sounds. As a producer, DJ, and co‑founder of Kalawa Jazmee Records, he has launched the careers of acts such as Mafikizolo and Bongo Maffin, cementing his status as a cultural entrepreneur.
The accolade is not his first nod from the industry. In 2024, at SAMA30 held on 2 November at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Gauteng, he was awarded the RiSA Chairperson’s Award. That honor highlighted his dual role as a music executive and a trailblazing producer, underscoring his impact on the industry’s evolution.
SAMA32 is presented by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) and enjoys the backing of a broad coalition of public and private partners. The Motsepe Foundation, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, SA Tourism, SABC, SAMPRA, SAMRO, CAPASSO, RiSA, and RiSA Audio‑Visual all contribute to the event’s success. Viewers across the nation will witness the ceremony on SABC1, while the live stream will be available on YouTube.
"The Lifetime Achievement Award recognises artists and industry figures whose work has shaped successive generations," says SAMA spokesperson Unati Gwija. "It 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."
Beyond the music, the awards are poised to spark significant tourism and economic activity in the North West. By drawing iconic performers, emerging talent, industry leaders, and music aficionados from across the country and beyond, the ceremony will energise local businesses, creatives, entrepreneurs and the hospitality sector. Attendees will also have the chance to explore the province’s world‑class attractions, cultural heritage and renowned hospitality.
Oskido’s Lifetime Achievement Award places him among a selective cadre of South African music figures whose careers have left an indelible mark on the industry. The recognition underscores the importance of honouring influential artists while they remain active, ensuring their stories continue to inspire.
As of now, the SAMA32 event remains confirmed for 15 August 2026 at the Sun City Superbowl, with the award ceremony set to highlight Oskido’s enduring legacy and to reinforce the North West’s position as a premier destination for music and cultural tourism.