City to host Metro FM music awards

IT'S BEEN nine years since the Metro FM Music Awards was last in Durban, it's expected to return with a bang in 2026, and the occasion will be marked with the addition of two prominent genres that have made a significant impact in the industry.

- MTHEMBENI VUMA

At next year's MMA26, the Lekompo music genre, which originated in Limpopo and has since made an impressive mark on the industry, as well as Maskandi, will be in the mix.

The Metro FM Music Awards (MMA) ceremony is set to premiere in Durban on April 25 next year, the announcement was made during the media launch held on Friday at the Oyster Box Hotel in uMhlanga.

In an interview with the Daily News, Clarence "Hitboss SA" Mangena, a prominent South African music producer known for popularising the Lekompo music genre, shared his excitement about Lekompo's inclusion in MMA26.

"We are really proud of Metro FM's recognition. It says a lot, and it means a great deal to Lekompo. We really appreciate the introduction," said Mangena.

Metro FM business manager Kina Nhlengethwa spoke about the return and the decision to select Durban as the host city.