After a year’s hiatus, the BOMU Awards returned with nominations, viral songs category and star power, but the loudest message wasn’t just the nominations, it was also about who gets to belong
GOSEGO MOTSUMI
Awards launches are usually predictable affairs: camera flashes, nervous nominees and excitement.
After a one-year pause, this year’s BOMU Awards returned under the theme Music Beyond and suddenly the conversation shifted from who made the hottest song to who gets to stand on the stage at all.
Nearly 2,000 submissions landed on the judges’ table this year, a dramatic leap from 483 entries in 2024.
That number tells its own story.
Botswana’s music scene isn’t shrinking. It’s exploding.
“While the judging process presented a few challenges, we are encouraged by the quality and diversity of the submissions. Amid the changing landscape of music, it is inspiring to see that our artists remain committed to their craft,” said BOMU Awards Coordinator, Seabelo Modibe.
He further noted that one of the categories with the highest number of submissions was the Best Single category. The award ceremony is slated for 29 August 2026.
MORE THAN A TROPHY
There was excitement over returning names, fresh contenders and category battles. Vee Mampeezy returned to the BOMU nominations after several years away from the awards spotlight while Han C emerged as the season’s front-runner with six nominations. Issa Sisdoh arrived as the breakout force. Even the late ATI received a posthumous nod, proving music often outlives the people who make it.
But then came the statement that highlighted new changes. BOMU President Papi Rakhudu made it clear that participation would no longer be open to everyone.
“We opened our arms to all musicians, we hoped you would join us willingly but leniency without commitment has weakened our collective power. No more,” Rakhudu said.
Effective immediately, only members in good standing will be eligible as nominees, performers or winners.
“This a promise to protect the very artists who make BOMU proud. Membership means access to resources, legal support, fair representation, and a united front.”
THE MOST VIRAL SONG
Adding a fresh twist to this year’s awards is the introduction of the Most Viral Song category, recognising songs that captured the public imagination and dominated conversations both online and offline.
Public voting will determine the winners in the Top six categories, including the newly introduced Most Viral Song category. Winners in all other categories will be determined by the adjudication panel.