The XIII BOMU Awards return bigger and better
The stage is set for the XIII Botswana Musicians Union (BOMU) Awards, which will light up the Gaborone International Convention Centre (GICC) on November 23rd, promising an unforgettable night under the theme, “Music Beyond.” As Botswana’s most prestigious celebration of music excellence, the awards are a perfect blend of glitz, glamour, and the recognition of incredible local talent. Music lovers and industry professionals alike are eagerly counting down the days to what will surely be another stellar edition of the BOMU Awards.
Last year’s event at the Royal Aria in Tlokweng was a showstopper, with Botswana’s musical elite gracing the red carpet in eye-catching fashion. Han C, Samantha Mogwe, and Lesego Chombo were just a few of the stars who captured the attention of fans and photographers alike. The night was filled with electrifying performances and a sense of camaraderie as Botswana’s finest talents were honored.
This year, the BOMU Awards aim to surpass all expectations, bringing another spectacular showcase of Botswana's musical greatness. With 38 categories up for grabs and two exciting new categories, Best Traditional Contemporary Music/EP and Best Clap & Tap EP/Record, the stage is set for fresh talent and seasoned veterans to share the spotlight.
Seabelo Modibe of Events Lab, the engine behind BOMU’s success, emphasized that the awards serve a greater purpose beyond the glitz and glamour. They provide a platform to celebrate the excellence of Botswana’s musicians while fostering industry growth through networking opportunities and skill development. Artists, producers, and event professionals will have the chance to connect with international brands, distributors, and broadcasters, expanding their reach and professional opportunities both locally and globally.
Workshops and masterclasses will be held in the lead-up to the awards, providing valuable knowledge in areas like audio engineering, lighting, and event production. These efforts reflect BOMU’s commitment to elevating Botswana’s music industry and attracting international interest.
The XIII BOMU Awards are now open for submissions, and artists, producers, record companies, and studio managers are invited to submit their works for consideration. Eligible entries must have been commercially available between June 2023 and August 2024. Creatives from all corners of the industry are encouraged to submit, free of charge, with the added benefit of joining BOMU.
Following the close of submissions on September 30th, all entries will undergo a thorough vetting process, ensuring compliance with the awards' rules. A panel of expert judges will adjudicate most categories, with the public voting on some of the most coveted awards, including Best Female Artist, Best Male Artist, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year.
As the excitement builds, music fans should keep their eyes on the highly-anticipated Nominees Launch Party on October 16th, where the year’s top contenders will be revealed.
The XIII BOMU Awards are more than just a celebration they are an opportunity to witness the power and growth of Botswana’s music industry. From established stars to emerging talents, this night promises to shine a spotlight
on those who have pushed the boundaries of creativity and excellence.
Be sure to mark your calendars for November 23rd, and for all artists and creatives eager to be part of this celebration, don’t miss the submission deadline of September 30th. The future of Botswana’s music industry is here, and it’s shining brighter than ever.