28 Aug 2026

This Friday, the country’s biggest music night is expected to make history before a single note is even played. 

For the first time since the Botswana Musicians Union (BOMU) Awards were established in 2011, a sitting President is expected to grace the ceremony. 

President Advocate Duma Boko’s expected attendance at the 14^th edition will mark an unprecedented milestone for the local creative scene and beckon a major boost of encouragement for artistes nationwide.  

Held at the Gaborone International Convention Centre (GICC) under the theme: Music Beyond, the awards aim to honour the very heartbeat of the local music industry, from spotlight-stealing vocalists and hit-making producers to the unsung visionaries working tirelessly behind the scenes. 

Over the years, the platform has strived to inspire both established and emerging talent to push creative boundaries and craft music that transcends the ordinary.

In harmony with the national spirit of the 60 years of independence, the red carpet promises to be a spectacular display of culture and style. 

Guests are encouraged to embrace the official dress code, ‘3 colours of Botswana-bold colours/ national motifs,’ which invites attendees to interpret the national colours with high-fashion flair to blend individuality and patriotism in an unforgettable visual showcase.

The 2026 edition features 35 categories, including a trendy new entry, most viral song, reflecting how modern digital culture shapes today’s hits. 

Out of 36 total honours, only seven will be voted for by the public, including the people’s choice award, most played song on radio, song of the year, best collaboration, best female artiste, beat male artiste and best newcomer.  

In an interview, awards coordinator, Seabelo Modibe of Events Lab, said for local creatives, the President’s presence was far more than a routine appearance, thus he was at the development.

BOMU president, Gloria Dzwikiti said that was the biggest moment not only for the music industry but for the creative industry as a whole.

“This is an affirmation that Botswana’s creative talent matters and deserves to be celebrated, supported and invested in,” Dzwikiti said.  ENDS