The excitement surrounding the Choral Indigenous Music Awards (CIMA 2026) continues to grow as fans, music lovers, churches, schools, cultural organizations, and communities across South Africa prepare to support and celebrate their favourite indigenous and choral music groups.

The Choral Indigenous Music Awards has become one of the country’s leading platforms dedicated to recognizing excellence in indigenous music, choral music, Isicathamiya, gospel, Zion music, Clap n Tap, Imizwilili, and traditional African musical expression. The awards continue to play a major role in preserving African heritage while giving artists the recognition they deserve.

This year’s awards ceremony will take place on 25 July 2026 at AMPD Studios in Johannesburg and will feature live performances, cultural showcases, red carpet moments, media coverage, and the celebration of outstanding talent from across the nation.

As part of the competition, fans now have the opportunity to vote for their favourite nominees and help them secure victory in their respective categories.

HOW TO VOTE

Supporters can vote for their favourite group by sending an SMS with the group voting code to:

SMS Number: 40439

Example:
Type: CIMA2601
Send to: 40439

Each nominated group has been allocated its own unique voting code beginning with “CIMA”.

Voting gives fans the opportunity to actively participate in celebrating artists and preserving indigenous musical traditions that continue to inspire communities and uplift generations through powerful African storytelling and spirituality.

WHY YOUR VOTE MATTERS

Voting is more than just supporting a music group — it is about:
• Preserving African indigenous culture and heritage
• Celebrating local talent and creativity
• Empowering artists and communities
• Encouraging young people to embrace indigenous music
• Promoting social cohesion through music
• Supporting the growth of the creative industry

The organizing committee believes that fans play a critical role in ensuring that indigenous and choral music continues to thrive in South Africa and beyond.

According to Msizi Mavundla, Founder and Executive Producer of the Choral Indigenous Music Awards:

“CIMA is a movement that belongs to the people. The fans are the heartbeat of this initiative because their support keeps indigenous music alive. Every vote is a celebration of our culture, our identity, and our heritage.”

The awards continue to attract growing support from churches, schools, choirs, community organizations, broadcasters, and cultural institutions committed to promoting African excellence and preserving indigenous artistic traditions.

Fans are encouraged to rally behind their favourite groups by mobilizing families, friends, congregations, schools, and communities to vote throughout the voting period.

The Choral Indigenous Music Awards also aims to create opportunities for artists through exposure, networking, media recognition, performance opportunities, and industry development.

The 2026 edition promises to be bigger and more impactful than ever before, bringing together legends, rising stars, cultural ambassadors, and music lovers under one roof to celebrate the richness of African indigenous music.

For updates, nominee announcements, interviews, sponsorship opportunities, and event information, visit:

Sounds of Azania Official Website

Let your voice be heard.
Vote for your favourite group today.

SMS your voting code to 40439.

One Culture. One Voice. One Heritage.