Oskido to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award at 32nd South African Music Awards

South Africa’s music pioneer, DJ and producer Oskido, will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32). The ceremony, slated for 15 August 2026 at the Sun City Superbowl, is sponsored by the Motsepe Foundation.

The accolade follows Oskido’s recent receipt of the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, a national honor conferred by the President of South Africa on citizens who have excelled in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, or sport.

Born Oscar Sibonginkosi Mdlongwa on 29 November 1967, Oskido has spent more than 26 years shaping South Africa’s music landscape. He helped bring Kwaito beyond township borders, played a pivotal role in the rise of Afro‑house, and opened doors for the amapiano movement. As a DJ, producer, broadcaster, and entrepreneur, he co‑founded Kalawa Jazmee Records, the label that launched the careers of acts such as Mafikizolo and Bongo Maffin.

The South African Music Awards, established in 1995, are the country’s premier music industry honors. The event is traditionally held at the Sun City Superbowl and broadcast live on the national broadcaster SABC. In 2020, the awards returned to the Sun City Superbowl for the first time in several years, cementing the venue’s association with the ceremony.

Oskido’s recognition at SAMA32 follows a previous honor at SAMA30, when he received the RiSA Chairperson’s Award for his extraordinary contributions as an executive, producer, entrepreneur, and cultural pioneer.

SAMA spokesperson Unati Gwija said the Lifetime Achievement 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.” Gwija added that the award “reminds us of the importance of honouring our cultural architects while they are still with us to witness the impact of their life’s work.”

The ceremony will feature performances by nominated artists and a tribute segment spotlighting Oskido’s influence on contemporary South African music. The Motsepe Foundation’s sponsorship underscores its commitment to supporting cultural development and community empowerment.

Industry observers note that the Lifetime Achievement Award reinforces the role of music awards in preserving South Africa’s cultural heritage and providing visibility to artists who have shaped the industry’s evolution. Oskido’s career trajectory—from club DJ to record label founder—illustrates the interconnectedness of creative production, entrepreneurship, and cultural leadership.

The award will be presented to Oskido at the Sun City Superbowl on 15 August 2026. No further details about the ceremony’s program have been released at this time.