The 10th South Africa Jazz Awards, previously called the Mzantsi Jazz Awards, took place at the South African State Theatre on 15 August 2026.
Main award winners
Tutu Puoane won Best Female Jazz Artist. Mdu Mtshali received Best Contemporary Jazz Album for Okae Molao, and Sibusiso Jack Lerole Jnr took Best Traditional Jazz Album for Tribute to Jack Lerole.
Andile Yenana was named Best Male Jazz Artist, while Lindi Ngonelo won Best Newcomer in Jazz for In a Man’s World. Kabelo Boy Mokhatla received Best International Jazz Collaboration Album/Song for Dot Series.
International and African categories
The ceremony also recognised artists from outside South Africa and the broader African jazz scene. Nigerian-born musician Ola Onabulé won Best International Jazz Album/Artist for It’s Never Over. Dotun Bankole received Best African Jazz Album/Artist for OLÙGBÀLÀ.
Song, album and radio honours
- Kabelo El Chen Mogale: Best Jazz Song for ‘Ishoba Labangoma’
- Siyanqoba Mthethwa: Best Jazz Album for Inevitable (Jazz Edition)
- Mams Radio 92.9: Best Radio Station Promoting Jazz
