Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, has extended heartfelt congratulations to all winners and honourees of the 4th Annual Basadi in Music Awards, held over two evenings at the Joburg Theatre from 1–2 August 2025.
The event marked the beginning of Women’s Month with a powerful celebration of female excellence across the music and entertainment industry. It began with the exclusive Vanguard Awards on Friday, honouring behind-the-scenes professionals, and concluded on Saturday with the main awards ceremony spotlighting performing artists.
“Basadi in Music is a celebration of craft, courage and community,” said Deputy Minister Mabe. “Your achievements remind us why fair opportunities and equal investment in women’s platforms are essential for a thriving creative economy.”
The awards not only honoured singers and performers but also elevated the work of producers, writers, stylists, journalists and managers, showcasing the full value chain of music production.
Mabe praised the event’s format and public voting process, which she said helped build legitimacy and fostered strong fan engagement. She also welcomed the event’s national broadcast on SABC2, with the Music Awards airing on 9 August and Vanguard Awards on 10 August.
“Basadi has become a national moment,” she said. “Our job as government is to keep building the support structures that allow this growth to continue.”
The Department has urged all South Africans to support women-led creativity throughout the year by streaming, buying, attending and advocating for fair representation in all parts of the industry.
