The countdown to the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32), sponsored by the Motsepe Foundation, continues to build momentum with the announcement of the personalities who will lead two of the most anticipated moments of South Africa’s biggest celebration of music. Multi-talented entertainer Anele Zondo has been confirmed as host of the SAMA32 Industry Awards, while media personalities Fresh By Caddy and Munaka Muthambi will take viewers behind the glamour and excitement as hosts of the official SAMA32 Red Carpet. This year’s awards will take place at the iconic Sun City Resort in the North West Province on 15 August 2026. The announcement follows the reveal of the main awards ceremony hosts and further cements SAMA32’s commitment to delivering a world class entertainment experience.
Welcoming the announcement, Unati Gwija, SAMA spokesperson, said the selected hosts each bring a unique energy that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of South Africa’s entertainment industry.
“The Industry Awards celebrate the incredible talent and craftsmanship that drive our music industry behind the scenes, and Anele Zondo brings the charisma, professionalism and stage presence needed to honour those achievements. At the same time, Fresh By Caddy and Munaka Muthambi have become some of the country’s most engaging entertainment personalities, making them the perfect duo to capture the excitement, fashion and unforgettable moments that unfold before guests enter the main stage. Together, they embody the spirit of this year’s theme, ‘The Future Sounds Like Now Now.'”
Hosting the Industry Awards marks another milestone for Anele Zondo, whose career continues to evolve across music, television and entertainment. Known for commanding audiences both on stage and on screen, she is expected to bring elegance, humour and infectious energy to an event that recognises excellence across the South African recording industry.
Expressing her excitement, Anele Zondo said:
“It’s an honour for me to be hosting the SAMA Industry Awards this year. I believe these awards are pivotal in shining a light on the producers, directors, engineers, and the many brilliant creative minds who dedicate themselves to their craft every single day, often without being in the forefront. Their passion, innovation, and hard work are the foundation of the music we celebrate, and it’s only fitting that they receive the recognition they deserve. I’m proud to be part of an evening that honours the people who help shape and elevate South African music.”
Meanwhile, audiences can expect an energetic and entertaining red carpet experience with Fresh By Caddy and Munaka Muthambi, whose chemistry, humour and engaging interviewing styles have made them favourites among music and entertainment fans. From designer fashion and celebrity arrivals to exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes moments, the duo will set the tone for what promises to be one of the biggest nights on South Africa’s entertainment calendar.
Fresh By Caddy said:
“Being part of the SAMAs and getting the opportunity to host the red carpet is incredibly special to me. The SAMAs represent the excellence, creativity and diversity of South African music, so to be trusted to help tell that story from the red carpet is a real honour. Music, fashion and entertainment are such a huge part of who I am, and this moment brings all those worlds together. I’m excited to celebrate our artists, capture the energy of the night and, of course, bring a little Fresh By Caddy flavour to the carpet.”
Munaka Muthambi added:
“I’m incredibly excited and honoured to be hosting the SAMAs red carpet. While many people know me as an influencer, I’ve always dreamed of building a career in the entertainment industry, so this opportunity means so much to me. It’s a surreal full-circle moment to go from watching the SAMAs growing up to now being part of them. I’m so grateful to be trusted with this role and excited to celebrate South African music on such a special night.”
Supported by a formidable partnership that includes the Motsepe Foundation, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), SA Tourism, SABC, the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA), the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), the Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (CAPASSO), Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA), RiSA Audio Visual (RAV), MNM Funerals, Settlers Media, NX and IOL, the SAMAs has evolved into a powerful catalyst for destination marketing, positioning the North West Province as one of South Africa’s leading cultural, tourism and entertainment destinations. By attracting thousands of music fans, industry professionals, media, and visitors from across the country and beyond, the awards generate significant economic activity while showcasing the province’s world-class hospitality, iconic attractions, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant visitor experiences.
