Lasizwe Dambuza has called for a major rethink of South Africa’s entertainment industry, questioning the decline of award shows, shrinking corporate investment and the lack of support for local creatives.
South African media personality and content creator Lasizwe Dambuza has urged government, broadcasters, corporates and industry players to come together and address what he describes as growing problems within the country’s arts and entertainment sector.
His comments came after the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32), held at the Sun City SuperBowl on Saturday, 15 August 2026.
Lasizwe questions the state of award shows
Following SAMA32, Lasizwe took to X to question whether artists should receive awards if they do not attend the ceremonies.
He argued that award organisers should consider a “no show, no award” policy, saying attendance should form part of the recognition given to artists.
The discussion quickly expanded beyond award ceremonies, with Lasizwe raising broader concerns about the direction of South Africa’s entertainment industry.
‘What is happening?’
In a separate post, Lasizwe directly called on Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie to address what he believes is a growing crisis.
He questioned the decline in the entertainment value of award shows and raised concerns about corporate investment in the sector.
According to Lasizwe, South Africa has no shortage of talent or infrastructure. He pointed to the country’s artists, performers, producers, technical professionals and technology as evidence that the foundations for a world-class entertainment industry already exist.
The issue, he suggested, is whether the industry is providing enough support and investment to allow that talent to thrive.
Lasizwe wants South Africa to think bigger
Lasizwe also reflected on his own relationship with the SAMAs, explaining that he grew up watching the awards and is disappointed by what he believes has happened to the institution.
He argued that South Africa should be building an entertainment industry capable of competing internationally and positioning the country as a major creative hub on the continent.
But despite his criticism, Lasizwe stopped short of declaring the industry beyond repair.
Instead, he described the current situation as a potential turning point.
Call for government and industry leaders to act
Lasizwe is calling for government, broadcasters, corporate sponsors, artists, producers and other creatives to sit around the same table and develop solutions for rebuilding the sector.
He also suggested that a commission of inquiry into the entertainment industry could be considered to investigate where the disconnect lies between South Africa’s considerable creative talent and the support available to the sector.
His central message is straightforward: the talent is already here — now the industry needs to catch up.
