6 July 2025 —Marked a major milestone in the South African music and cultural landscape as the 1st Choral Indigenous Music Awards (CIMA2025) was officially hosted online. A celebration rich in legacy, voice, and unity, the event brought together choirs, communities, and supporters from across the country to honour the soul of our indigenous music traditions.
From emotional tributes to electrifying winner announcements, CIMA2025 proved that music remains one of the most powerful tools of identity, storytelling, and connection.
About CIMA2025
The Choral Indigenous Music Awards (CIMA) is a groundbreaking initiative created to recognise and celebrate the voices, compositions, and choirs that carry the heart of indigenous music traditions. These awards honour those who skillfully weave traditional rhythms, languages, instruments, and storytelling into their musical expressions.
CIMA2025 is not just a celebration — it is a movement. It shines a powerful spotlight on individuals and groups who are both preserving cultural heritage and pushing creative boundaries by blending indigenous roots with contemporary soundscapes.
Presented by the Sounds of Azania Cultural and Creative Incubator, CIMA2025 is driven by a passion to:
- Promote the preservation of indigenous music traditions
- Encourage innovation within choral and traditional genres
- Give communities a platform to celebrate their heritage
- Highlight the emerging and established talent shaping the future of indigenous music
Through this event, we honour not just the performers — but the legacy, spirit, and stories that live in every song. CIMA2025 is where tradition meets tomorrow.
And the Winners Are…
CIMA2025 honoured the outstanding contributions of choirs and vocal groups representing a wide range of traditional and indigenous music styles. Here are the proud winners:
The ceremony awarded excellence across 12 prestigious categories:
- Best Clap and Tap Award – Mighty Oh! Lord Singers
- Best Apostolic Music Award – St Josias Apostolic Church Choir
- Best Zion Music Award – Moya Oyingcwele MAE Voice
- Best Amadodana Award – Amadodana We Buhlebesizwe
- Best Isicathamiya Award – Bergville Green Lovers
- Best Imizwilili Award – University of Pretoria Camerata
- Best Indigenous Music Award – JTG Gospel Choir
- Best Choral Album of the Year – Universal Catholic Church Choir (Retibile)
- Best Group of the Year – Legato SA
- Best Choral Indigenous Music Award – Thak’ So Ujey
Special Recognition Awards
Two deeply moving moments highlighted the evening:
- Special Tribute Award – Best Choral Composition was presented to Isaac Setati & Mighty Messengers in honour of the late Isaac Setati, whose legacy continues to live on in the voices he mentored.
- Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to the legendary Barorisi Ba Morena, in recognition of their decades-long impact on gospel, choral, and indigenous music communities.
Hosted by MISS Inspire South Africa Woman 2025, Amanda Ndedele, the CIMA2025 virtual ceremony was brought to life with her elegance, warmth, and confident presence. Amanda guided the programme with charisma, perfectly capturing both the celebratory and reflective spirit of the evening. The awards were presented by a dynamic group of cultural voices and leaders ; Rev Nceba Isaac, Msizi Mavundla, Jennifer Mdluli, Nqobile Mabizela, Buhle Gabela, Bonga Mabaso, and Ndumiso Duze each adding depth, passion, and a personal touch to the celebration of indigenous choral excellence.
Gratitude to Our Nominees, Winners, Voters & Team
The CIMA2025 Organising Team and Sounds of Azania extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this historic event possible:
- To the nominees – thank you for your passion, humility, and commitment to preserving our musical traditions.
- To the winners – congratulations on your well-deserved recognition.
- To the voters – thank you for standing behind your favourites and making your voices count.
- To the organising team and Sounds of Azania family – your creativity, resilience, and unity made the impossible possible.
From the first broadcast to the last push behind the scenes, you gave everything. Through challenges and triumphs, you built something unforgettable.
“This was more than an event this was a celebration of who we are, where we come from, and the future of indigenous music in South Africa.”
Looking Ahead
CIMA2025 laid the foundation. The voices have been heard. The legacy continues.
We look forward to seeing you at CIMA2026 — stronger, louder, and even more unforgettable.
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