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METRO FM, South Africa’s leading commercial radio station, has officially announced that Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, will host the prestigious METRO FM Music Awards (MMAs) for the next three years, beginning with the 2026 edition. The announcement marks a triumphant return to the coastal city after a successful three-year stint in Mpumalanga from 2023 to 2025.

Celebrated for its vibrant creative energy, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic entertainment scene, Durban is poised to bring a fresh wave of excitement to one of the country’s most anticipated music events.

SABC Group Executive for Radio, Nada Wotshela, expressed her enthusiasm about the decision.
“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, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the city’s strength as a creative and tourism hub.
“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 continue to honour excellence and innovation in the South African music industry. Entries for the 2026 edition are officially open, with eligibility restricted to works released between 28 February 2025 and 28 February 2026. Submission guidelines, rules, and entry forms are available on the METRO FM website.

Returning to Durban aligns with METRO FM’s commitment to amplifying the voices of South African artists and showcasing the nation’s diverse musical landscape. The 2026 event is expected to feature a star-studded lineup, special guest appearances, and the highly anticipated awards ceremony.

This year’s awards once again receive strong backing from the Motsepe Foundation. The event forms part of the foundation’s broader vision of integrating fashion, music, entertainment, and the arts to drive cultural expression and economic development.

Motsepe Foundation COO, Kenneth Mashaba, highlighted the synergy between the awards and the foundation’s FAMES initiative.
“We are delighted to partner with the METRO FM 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.”

Details on the 2026 ceremony—including the official date, nominees, and performers—will be announced in the coming months. Fans and industry stakeholders are encouraged to follow METRO FM’s social media channels for real-time updates.

With Durban as the new home of the MMAs from 2026 to 2028, South Africa can look forward to a refreshed celebration of its musical brilliance—set against the backdrop of one of its most exciting cultural cities.