Official Confirmation That The SAMAs Will Be Held in Durban in June

Press Release: The South African Music Awards (SAMAs), regarded as the premium music awards in the country, will be hosted in Durban for the first time later this year. The ceremony takes place on 4 June.

"We are pleased that this prestigious awards ceremony is being held in Durban as we constantly strive to ensure our highly talented musicians are provided with opportunities and the necessary platforms to showcase their talent," eThekwini Mayor James Nxumalo said on Wednesday, 30 March.

The 22nd Samas will take place at Durban's main convention centre, the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, with the eThekwini Municipality as the hosting partner.

"Music brings people together, irrespective of race, creed or culture and eThekwini is proud to be hosting the 22nd Samas," the mayor said.

"It is fitting that the ceremony will take place at our historic venue, the Durban Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC), which has been transformed into a world-class events and conference centre over the years."

The Samas had a long history of promoting local music and acknowledging the contribution made by musicians to grow the music and entertainment industry.

"We salute our musicians and appreciate the role they play in impacting lives as well as showcasing South Africa's diverse culture and rich history through music. eThekwini is proud to be partnering with the Recording Industry of South Africa for this year's SAMAs."

Samas chairman Refiloe Ramogase said the new partnership with the eThekwini Municipality marked a fresh chapter for the awards ceremony.

Award nominees will be announced later this month.