This was announced during the launch at Karibu Leisure and Resorts in Nwamitwa recently. This year’s event is themed Kurila xinari and the stadium will play host to the event for the third consecutive year following a three-year partnership between the radio station and the Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM).

The station’s programme manager, Rose ‘Rozana’ Tshabalala, challenged other municipalities and businesses to submit bids better than GTM to present the awards in their communities next year. During the launch led by Thembzana Reloaded and the Quitinazzer, the categories and nominees were announced, including the most popular song of the year, best duo, best album and others.

Also read: Xitsonga Music Awards promises fun-filled glitz and glamour

The glitz and glamourous event hosted guests such as Dr Thomas Chauke, Princess Tsakani Nkambule, Princess Nkakasana Muhlava and Candy Tsa Mandebele, among others. Local gospel artist, Themba Sivhalo opened up the stage with his soul reviving songs, while other artists such as Dr Sun Glen Tshabalala, Brian Bomba and CK also entertained the guests with their favourite hits during the program.

Rozana encouraged music lovers to vote for their favourite artists to avoid disappointment. Music fans can vote for their favourite artists by sending an SMS with the name of the artist or album to the number 45859. Each SMS costs R1.50 and you are allowed to vote as much as you want to. To view the categories, visit the Mughana Lonene social media pages.

Voting will close on October 26. For the most popular song of the year, voting will close on the day of the festival, November 2.