The 9th edition of the Yarona FM Music Awards (YAMAs) unfolded with a different rhythm this year—more intimate, more focused, and more reflective of where Botswana’s music industry stands today. While the change in scale sparked mixed reactions among fans, the awards themselves continued to deliver what matters most: recognition of talent, hard work, and cultural influence.

Less Flash, More Focus

This year’s ceremony departed from the red-carpet glamour and live performances of past editions. Instead, it created space for industry conversations and community acknowledgment. For some, the stripped-down format was refreshing—a sign of maturity. For others, it felt like something was missing.

“I expected a show. This felt like a press event,” one fan shared online.
“But credit to them—it felt focused and intentional,” added another.

This divide highlights an important tension: audiences want deeper conversations—but they also want to celebrate.

A Year of Breakthroughs and Bold Statements

The awards saw a strong mix of emerging voices and established names take home top honours.

• Juu Matere led the winners’ circle with multiple accolades for “O Tshameke”, which won Best Male Single, Best Botswana Pop, and People’s Choice Song of the Year.
• Jackalass Onetym, a rising star with a distinct voice, was awarded Best Newcomer and Best Hip Hop for “Tshipi”.
• Dato Seiko’s heartfelt single “The Vow” secured Best Female Single, affirming her place among Botswana’s finest vocalists.

Other key wins included:

• DJ Latty ft. Dalom Kids, Thato Tladi & Way Kay – Best Amapiano (“Dithuthuntshwane”)
• ATI ft. Caliba & Seneath – Best Dance Single (“Kwashioka”)
• Licky ft. Katlego Ramphaleng – Best R&B Single (“Pressure”)
• Baxon & Juu Matere – Best Collabo (“Chobolo”)
• The Choreographers – Best Social Media
• DJ Quest – Best DJ

Honouring Legacy and Leadership

This year’s YAMAs also took time to honour those behind the scenes:

• Fella was named Producer of the Year, a nod to his impact on some of the year’s most defining records.
• Zenzele Hirschfeld received the Hall of Fame recognition, marking her contributions to artist development and the business of music.
• The Icon Award went to Brando, whose influence stretches beyond airplay into mentorship, media, and movement-building.

What the YAMAs Got Right—and What’s Still Possible

The 2025 YAMAs proved, once again, that Botswana’s music scene is talented, proud, and moving forward. The awards did justice in celebrating hard-working artists, highlighting new voices, and opening up space for meaningful conversation.

But the biggest missed opportunity? Not giving the fans the moment they wait for all year. The YAMAs aren’t just industry awards—they are a cultural event tied to the identity of Yarona FM, a brand that listeners love because it understands youth, sound, and celebration. The scaled-back experience left many craving more—more performance, more spectacle, more energy.

In a time when local artists are pushing boundaries and fans are showing up louder than ever, the YAMAs must continue to evolve. But in doing so, it can’t forget the power of the show itself—the excitement, the lights, the live moments that stick long after the awards are handed out.

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Next year marks a decade of the YAMAs. The stage is set—not just for another ceremony, but for a comeback. One that honours both the music and the movement around it.

Let’s hope the 10th gives us all of it.

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