BOMU Introduces New Nomination Category
23 Feb 2026
As Botswana joins the rest of the world in embracing digital platforms to stream, like, share and comment on their favourite songs , often propelling them into viral sensations, the Botswana Musicians Union (BOMU) Awards have introduced a new nomination category, Most Viral Song.
According to a BOMU press release, after a year-long strategic hiatus in 2025, the awards return for their 14th edition, scheduled for May on a date yet to be announced. The organisers say the show has been restructured and reimagined to reflect current trends in an evolving music landscape.
The introduction of the Most Viral Song category reflects the growing influence of digital platforms and online music consumption.
Speaking at the official launch last Thursday, BOMU president Papie Rakhudu said digital transformation had changed the rules of the game in the creative sector, noting that music now generates revenue through streaming, publishing, live performances, brand partnerships, licensing and digital content creation. He added that social media platforms, content monetisation and digital distribution had removed traditional barriers.
“Today, a young artist in Gaborone can release a song and reach the world instantly,” he said, stressing that artists must be equipped with digital skills, business knowledge, data literacy and ownership structures that protect their intellectual property.
Rakhudu also emphasised the music industry’s multifaceted nature and its ability to create employment for producers, sound engineers, graphic designers, marketers and event managers, among others, helping to curb unemployment. He called for the creative sector to be recognised as a serious contributor to GDP as Botswana pursues economic diversification.
Events Lab representative Seabelo Modibe said over the years the awards had developed into an economic hub benefiting creatives and industry enablers ranging from administrators to fashion designers. He added that each nominated artist receives a nomination fee, representing a financial injection into the industry through prizes alone.
Modibe further advocated for amendments to copyright laws governing the creative sector, the development of proper cultural exchange programmes beyond grants, and the full-scale operation of the night-time economy, which he said would greatly benefit the industry.
He noted that out of BOMU’s 35 categories, six will be decided by public vote: Best Female, Best Male, Best Duo/Group, Album of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Producer. ENDS
Source : BOPA
Author : Benita Magopane
Location : Gaborone
Event : Press Release
Date : 23 Feb 2026
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