Awards event to boost business
Obama and Malcolm X families to be part of music awards festivities
SMALL businesses will benefit from thousands of visitors expected to flock into the region for the 10th annual South African Music Awards (SATMA) at Unizulu in KwaDlangezwa on 2 and 3 October.
With hotels already fully booked for the weekend, tourists will now look to local bed and breakfast and guest house establishments for accommodation.
Health and safety inspections will be conducted to ensure they maintain the required standards.
According to the SATMA’s, services providers including transport services, caterers, and accommodation outlets must be accredited and be affiliated with uMhlathuze Community Tourism Organisation (uCTO).
‘We will only look at enterprises registered with the city,’ said SATMA founder Dr Dumsane Goba.
Tables will be arranged along the university road, with various crafters showcasing their work including beads, traditional attire, pottery and woodwork.
‘Guests will have an opportunity to check out crafts by our locals which will boost their businesses,’ said Goba.
Hundreds will arrive a week before, including sound and production staff, TV crews and foreign visitors.
‘Special guests includes the US president’s grandmother Sarah Obama, Malcolm X’s daughter Ilyasah Shabazz and former Ghanaian president’s daughter Samia Nkrumah.
Obama will be honoured for improving the lives of her people, especially the children in Kenya.
The three delegates will be welcomed by a cultural extravaganza at Richards Bay Airport on 29 September.
The special group will be transported by luxury vehicles sponsored by Tangawizi Motors.
The awards
On Friday, 2 October the show will feature Indigenous Comedy and music, while the major highlights will take place on 3 October where 26 awards will presented.
More than 20 000 people are also expected to view the awards in public viewing spots around the region.
The will include hip hop and Maskandi performances along with unique collaborations of different ethnic groups.
SATMA honours artists and achievers who have made an impact in South African music and society.
