The third annual Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) took place at the prestigious Joburg Theatre over the weekend, celebrating the achievements of South Africa’s extraordinary female talent.
Under the theme “Girl in the Mirror: Our Re.flexion,” this year’s ceremony provided a platform for artists to reflect on their journeys, overcome challenges, and embrace their excellence. The evening was a testament to the strength, resilience, and creativity of women in the music industry.
Hosted by the dynamic Unathi Nkayi, with the comedic flair of red carpet host Nina Hastie, the awards ceremony was a star-studded affair. Guest presenters including Enhle Mlotshwa, Nomcebo Zikode, Duma Ntando and Khanyo Maphumulo added to the evening’s glamour.
The night was filled with electrifying performances from a diverse range of artists, from opening acts Amanda Black, Skye Wanda and Mmatema while DJ Kmatt closed the show with a high-energy set. Other notable performances came from, Pixie Whip, Lady Zamar, Bucie, Naledi Aphiwe, Nontokozo, Chubby Cheeks, and a poignant In Memoriam tribute by Buhlebendalo Mda and Qaqamba Ntshinka.
Several artists emerged as major winners of the evening. DJ Zinhle had a night to remember, delivering a phenomenal performance and clinching three awards: DJ of the Year, Collaboration of the Year for her hit song Mdali with Basetsana, and the coveted Trailblazer Award. Tyla’s hit song Water secured both Song of the Year and Song with the Highest Airplay accolades in addition to her receiving the International Achievement Award.
Lwah Ndlunkulu and Makhadzi each took home two awards. Ndlunkulu won Artist of the Year and CAPASSO Most Streamed Song for Ngiyeza, while Makhadzi claimed Dance Artist of the Year and the International Achievement Award. Kamo Mphela also secured two awards: Amapiano Artist of the Year and Music Video of the Year for Dalie.
The evening also celebrated exceptional women in other fields. Zamo and Lady Du were honoured with the CEO Mosadi in Business Award for their entrepreneurial achievements. Dr Linah Ebony Ngcobo and Mercy Pakela received the Lifetime Achievement Award for their contributions to the music industry. The Spar Humanitarian Award was presented to Matshidiso Seruwe of Refilwe Legae Home for her outstanding humanitarian work.
Jacqui Hlongwane, Acting Channel Head: SABC 2 said: “SABC 2 is thrilled to be the broadcast partner for the Basadi In Music Awards (BIMA). This year’s spectacular awards ceremony was a true celebration of South African womanhood and a great testament to the unifying power of music. It shone a spotlight on the incredible and extraordinary talent and diversity, motivating, inspiring and empowering the next generation of female artists. In South Africa, August is a special month where we celebrate women and as a channel, we are thrilled to bring the magic and excitement of BIMA to our viewers in honour and in celebration of our incredible female musicians.”
The full list of winners from this year’s ceremony are:
Voting Categories
Artist of the Year: Lwah Ndlunkulu
Amapiano Artist of the Year: Kamo Mphela
Sofn’Free Afropop Artist of the Year: Naledi Aphiwe
Collaboration of the Year: Mdali – DJ Zinhle feat. Basetsana
Dance Artist of the Year: Makhadzi
DJ of the Year: DJ Zinhle
Gospel Artist of the Year: Zaza Mokhethi
Hip-Hop Artist of the Year: Dyna Steez
Jazz Artist of the Year: Salphina Kadiaka
Entertainment Journalist of the Year: Mbalenhle Zuma (Sunday world)
Music Video of the Year: Dalie – Kamo Mphela feat. Khalil Harrison, Tyler ICU and Baby S.O.N
Newcomer of the Year: Nontokozo Mkhize
Pop Artist of the Year: Shekinah
Entertainment Radio Presenter of the Year: Mroza Buthelezi (Vuka Afrika Breakfast show Ukhozi FM)
Entertainment Radio Producer of the Year: Nelza Buda (Sibuya Nawe Express Lane Ikwekwezi FM)
Reggae Artist of the Year: Reign Afrika
Song of the Year: Water – Tyla
Songwriter of the Year: Brenda Mtambo
Best Styled Artist of the Year: Thembi Seete
Traditional Artist of the Year: Pleasure Tsa Manyalo
Entertainment TV Presenter of the Year: Robyn Nakaambo (Namibia) – WhataLifestyle NBC
Entertainment TV Producer of the Year: Noni Khumalo (Trendz Live)
Non-Voting Categories
CEO Mosadi in Business Award: Zamo and Lady Du
Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr Linah Ebony Ngcobo and Mercy Pakela
Spar Humanitarian Award: Matshidiso Seruwe – Refilwe Legae Home
Song with the Highest Airplay: Water by Tyla
CAPASSO Most Streamed Song: Lwah Ndlunkulu – Ngiyeza
International Achievement Award: Tyla and Makhadzi
Trailblazer Award: DJ Zinhle
