Makhadzi has added another major accolade to her growing list of achievements after taking home the Best Traditional Music Album award at the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32).
The Limpopo-born star was recognised for her album Sesi Ka Rose, which was among the five nominees competing in the Best Traditional Music Album category. She faced strong competition from MetroBeatz RSA’s Born For This, King Monada’s I Khant Do Dhis Enimo, Pleasure Tsa Manyalo’s Pleasure in 20 Years and Soul Brothers’ Thath’owakho.
Makhadzi celebrates cultural pride at SAMA32
Makhadzi’s victory is particularly significant because the Best Traditional Music Album category celebrates music that remains connected to South Africa’s diverse cultural and musical heritage.
Known for her energetic performances and strong connection to her Venda roots, Makhadzi has built a career around bringing traditional influences into contemporary South African popular music. Her SAMA32 recognition further highlights the continued influence of indigenous sounds within the country’s mainstream music industry.
The win came during SAMA32’s “Homecoming Edition”, which returned to Sun City in the North West Province on 15 August 2026. The 32nd edition brought together some of South Africa’s biggest musical names for a celebration of the country’s evolving music landscape.
Sesi Ka Rose earns its moment
Makhadzi’s winning project, Sesi Ka Rose, also featured among the nominees for the SAMA32 Female Artist of the Year category, further underlining the album’s impact during this year’s awards season.
The Best Traditional Music Album victory is another milestone for an artist whose music has consistently placed culture, language and identity at the centre of her artistry.
For Makhadzi and her fans, the SAMA32 win is more than another trophy — it is a celebration of South African culture, traditional sounds and the power of music to keep heritage alive while reaching new audiences.
Congratulations to Makhadzi
