The XII Botswana Musicians Union (BOMU) Music Awards took center stage at the Royal Aria in Tlokweng on December 16, 2023, marking a spectacular evening that celebrated the best of Botswana’s music talent. The star-studded event, which aired live on BTV at 8:00 PM, featured stellar live performances, a glamorous red carpet, and the recognition of outstanding contributions to the music industry.
The award ceremony, made possible through the generous sponsorship of the National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB) and the Department of Broadcasting Services (DBS), showcased the diversity and richness of Botswana’s music scene.
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Recipients were local arts pioneer David Slater, a key figure in the success of the much-acclaimed Maitisong Festival for decades. His name is synonymous with providing a platform for both established and budding artists, making Maitisong Theatre the home for local performing arts. A unifying force in the creative industry, especially in music, he is best known for establishing one of the longest-running festivals in the country—the Maitisong Festival—which has been taking place annually for years.
The second recipient, Kgaogelo Moagi, widely known as Master KG, a South African music sensation, and record producer, received the International Achiever Award. Master KG’s influence has transcended borders, captivating the entire region and continent. For years, Master KG has left an impact and cross-cutting influence in the world of music. In Botswana, he is the driving force behind the success of artists like DJ Ngwazi and DJ KSB, to mention a few.
The winners of various categories were announced during the awards ceremony, recognizing exceptional talent across different genres. The recipients of the coveted awards are as follows:
- Best Amapiano Album: DJ Ngwazi with “Morata”
- Best Kwaito Album: Tiernaman with “The Future of BW Kwaito”
- Best Remix: Lizibo with “Show You Off”
- Best Newcomer: Sinobw
- Best Single: DJ KSB and Han C with “Maloba”
- Best Dance Album: DJ KSB with “Maloba”
- Best Reggae, Ragga, Dance Hall: YPG Jones with “African Man”
- Best Hip-hop: VEEZO View with “Big Launch”
- Best Jazz: Lister Boleseng with “Pelo Yame”
- Best Kwasa Kwasa: B-Musica with “Seleetswane”
- Best Collaboration: Samantha Mogwe and Mpho Sebina with “Marang”
- Best Traditional Gospel: LB Thagas with “Thank You”
- Best House Kwasa: Zolasko with “Selelo The Album”
- Best Afro Pop: Han C with “Tears of Joy”
- Best Traditional Music: Maghebula with “Tsoga”
- Best RNB: Samantha Mogwe with “VII”
- Best Disco Music: Khoza Mkhozeni with “My Last Chapter”
- Best Contemporary Gospel: Tshepo Lesole with “Lounge Worship Experience”
- Best Folk: Ora Namane with “Tsamakoo”s
- Chairmans Award: Serowe Bomu District Chapter
- Lifetime Achievement Award: David Slater
- International Achiever Award: Kgaogelo Moagi better known as Master KG
Public Voting categories
- Best Female: Elny Kumar
- Best Male: Han C
- Best Duo/Group: Tehilla
- Album of the Year: Han C
- Song of Year: DJ Ngwazi, Master KG, Joocy
- Best Producer: Fella
- Most downloaded song on radio: Team Distant with colder than water
- Most downloaded callertune: Vee with Dololo
“The XII BOMU Music Awards, organized by BOMU in collaboration with Events Lab, showcased the incredible talent within Botswana’s music industry and celebrated the achievements of artists who are continuing to elevate the country’s musical landscape. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their exceptional contributions to the world of music.”
