Confidence and gratitude set the tone as Mawhoo reacted to her multiple nominations at the 2026 METRO FM Music Awards nominations party, saying she deeply appreciates the unwavering support from her fans and believes she stands a strong chance in every category she has been nominated in.
Speaking to Lifestyle & Tech, singer and songwriter Noxolo Ngema said: “I truly appreciate the love and support I receive from my fans; it means everything to me. I’m confident about all the categories I’m nominated in, and I’m grateful to everyone who continues to believe in my music.”
Mawhoo was among the standout names when METRO FM revealed this year’s nominees at a star-studded nominees party held at The Forum in Hyde Park on Thursday, 26 February. The glamorous evening brought together artists, industry executives and media as anticipation builds for one of South Africa’s biggest nights in music.
A total of 21 categories and more than 100 artists are under consideration this year, reflecting the vibrancy and evolution of the local music scene across genres ranging from amapiano and hip hop to gospel, jazz and traditional sounds.
This year’s awards introduce two new categories — Best Maskandi and Best Lekompo — signalling a broader recognition of traditional and emerging African sounds. The Best Maskandi category celebrates the rich heritage of Zulu folk music, while Best Lekompo highlights the fast-growing genre blending traditional rhythms with contemporary pop and electronic influences.
Several artists are celebrating first-time nominations, including Kharishma, Goon Flavour and Nkesh. Meanwhile, heavyweights such as Sam Deep, Kabza De Small, Jazzwrld and Thukuthela secured multiple nods. Jazzwrld and Thukuthela lead the pack with seven nominations each, cementing their dominance in this year’s line-up.
Among the most competitive categories is Song of the Year, sponsored by the Motsepe Foundation, featuring hits such as “Shela” by Sam Deep, Nia Pearl, Boohle and Mano; “Abantwana Bakho” by DJ Maphorisa, Xduppy, Kabza De Small and collaborators; and “Bengicela” by Mawhoo, Jazzwrld and Thukuthela. The public will ultimately decide the winner through voting on Metro FM’s official website.
The Artist of the Year category also promises a tight race, with DJ Maphorisa, Sam Deep, Ciza, Shandesh and Zee Nxumalo all vying for top honours. In the Best Female Artist category, Mawhoo competes against Lordkez, Zee Nxumalo, Shandesh and Lwah Ndlunkulu.
Kina Nhlengethwa, Metro FM Business Manager, described the nominations as a celebration of the country’s musical excellence.
“We are thrilled to showcase the best of South African music at the Metro FM Awards. These nominations reflect the vibrant diversity of our music landscape. It’s a testament to the creativity and talent of our artists, and we’re excited to honour their achievements,” she said.
The awards are proudly hosted by the City of eThekwini and supported by partners including the Motsepe Foundation, Africa Fashion International (AFI) and Santam. New sponsors Lottostar, Icebolethu and SAMRO have also joined the awards family this year.
The 2026 Metro FM Music Awards will take place at the Durban ICC on Saturday, 25 April 2026, promising a night of high fashion, electrifying performances and industry recognition.
For Mawhoo, however, the moment is already meaningful.
“Win or lose, I’m just grateful, but I believe in the work we have done — and I am ready.”