Durban – Thursday, 11 December 2025 – METRO FM, South Africa’s leading commercial radio station, is thrilled to announce that Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, will host the METRO FM Music Awards (MMA’s) for the next three years, starting with the 2026 edition.
Following a successful three-year run in Mpumalanga (2023-2025), the awards will return to Durban, a city renowned for its vibrant music and scene and rich cultural heritage.
This move brings excitement and new opportunities for Durban, and METRO FM looks forward to celebrating South African talent in this dynamic city.
SABC Group Executive for Radio, Nada Wotshela says, “We’re thrilled to bring the METRO FM Music Awards back to South Africa’s favourite playground, Durban in 2026. We’re excited to celebrate South African music talent in eThekwini, a city known for its exceptional music and entertainment scene, as well as a rich cultural tapestry.”
Durban’s Mayor, Cyril Xaba adds, “Durban is proud to host the METRO FM Music Awards for the next three years. This event highlights our city as a hub of creativity and culture, positioning us as an ideal tourism and events destination.”
The METRO FM Music Awards recognize and reward outstanding contributions to the South African music industry.
Entries are now open, and eligible works must have been released between 28 February 2025 and 28 February 2026. Entry guidelines, rules, and regulations are available on the METRO FM website, where entries can also be submitted.
By hosting the event in Durban, METRO FM aims to amplify the voices of South African artists and promote the country’s rich musical diversity. The event will feature a star-studded lineup, surprise appearances, and the prestigious awards ceremony.
The awards, powered by the Motsepe Foundation, are South Africa’s premier platform celebrating the fusion of music and fashion, a longstanding hallmark of the country’s fashion industry.
COO of Motsepe Foundation, Mr Kenneth Mashaba, says, “We are delighted to partner with the Metro Music Awards! At Africa Fashion International (AFI), we believe that fashion transcends mere clothing; it embodies a cultural movement. Our FAMES initiative (Fashion Meets the Arts, Music, Entertainment, and Sports) is dedicated to pioneering boundaries and celebrating Africa’s exceptional creative prowess. By seamlessly integrating fashion with music, art, and entertainment, we empower individuals to express themselves authentically, catalyse economic growth, and foster job creation.”
More details about the event, including the date, nominees, and performers, will be announced soon.
Follow METRO FM’s social media channels for the latest update