Held amidst a flurry of excitement, the event’s glittering red carpet welcomed a range of stylish attendees, from well-dressed celebrities to emerging artists, all adhering to the dress code of “Dresses, Suits + Sneakers.” The playful yet elegant attire choice set the tone for the evening, where sophistication met relaxed creativity in every corner of the venue. The evening’s highlights were undoubtedly the remarkable wins by Harry Cane and DJ Ngwazi, who were among the big winners. Harry Cane, the maestro behind some of Botswana and South Africa’s most recognisable hits, walked away with three prestigious awards: Best Producer, Best Remix Collaboration, and Best Music Video for his work on Dubula Remake, a reimagined hit featuring Master KG, LaTimmy, and Eemoh. Harry Cane’s trio of wins not only confirmed his influence in shaping Botswana’s modern soundscape but also spotlighted his unmatched ability to elevate music to new heights. His work, a fusion of local and global influences, resonates with listeners far beyond Botswana’s borders, making him a standout figure on the continent’s music scene.
Meanwhile, DJ Ngwazi claimed two major awards: Song of the Year and Best Single for his chart-topping track Fake Love, featuring Dr Tawanda and Nelcy B. His success was a testament to the track’s broad appeal and the connection it made with audiences across Southern Africa. Fake Love became a cultural anthem, and Ngwazi’s ability to craft songs that speak to the masses was solidified as one of the defining factors of his triumph. The night also honoured other shining stars in Botswana’s music industry. Kearoma Rantao was lauded with both Best Female Artist and Best Jazz Album for Ina Lebe-Kea Roma, cementing her place as a key figure in Botswana’s jazz landscape. HanC and Priscilla K’s The Journey won Best Afro Pop Album/EP, while Drum Queen’s Pin Location took home the award for Best Kwaito/Kwasa Album/EP. The evening’s spirit of collaboration was also evident in the Best Collaboration award, which went to Ban T & Veezo View for their joint effort. This year’s event saw the introduction of two new categories, a sign of the ever-evolving nature of the music industry. The new categories added an exciting element, recognising emerging trends and genres, while still celebrating the traditional genres that have long been the backbone of Botswana’s music scene. Minister of Sports and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng, graced the event and delivered an empowering speech.
He remarked, “Tonight, we celebrate not only our music but the collective power of creativity that brings us together,” emphasizing the importance of nurturing home-grown talent. His presence underscored the government’s commitment to supporting the arts and ensuring that platforms like the BOMU Awards continue to thrive. In a touching tribute, the Lifetime Achievement Award was posthumously presented to Gomolemo Motswaledi, a legendary figure in Botswana. The tribute not only honoured his contributions but also reflected the deep respect and admiration within the music community for his legacy. The 13th annual BOMU Awards shone a spotlight on the very best of Botswana’s music industry, where artists were celebrated not only for their exceptional talents but also for their contributions to shaping the cultural landscape of the nation. Harry Cane, DJ Ngwazi, and the evening’s other winners epitomized the resilience and creativity within the local music scene, setting new standards for future generations. As the curtain fell on the night, one thing was clear: the future of Botswana’s music is bright, and the BOMU Awards remain an essential platform to showcase this growing talent.
