Naledi Aphiwe sets sights on debut album and global growth in 2026
19-year-old South African music sensation Naledi Aphiwe and collaborator Mawelele were nominated for Best African Duo or Group in R&B at the prestigious Afrima awards, competing against established continental giants. From humble beginnings in Durban's Inanda township to international recognition. This year she plans to release more music and her debut album.”
Image: Instagram
Naledi Aphiwe plans to release more music this year and her debut album.
Naledi Aphiwe, the 18-year-old Afro-pop artist, has announced that she is now focused on her musical growth and stated, "This year I want to release more music and my debut album."
The musician started the year 2026 with gratitude after being nominated for Best African Duo or Group in R&B alongside Mawelele at the 9th All Africa Music Awards (Afrima), which concluded in Lagos on Sunday, January 11.
Although they did not win the award, Naledi Aphiwe is honoured to have been nominated and believes this progression will open doors for her. "I want to become a complete all-around artist. I want to start touring in other countries, just expanding my reach and pushing boundaries," she stated.
She was up against the likes of Kunmie from Nigeria, Manal from Morocco, and 2024 Grammy award-nominee, Rema.
Naledi Aphiwe expressed that she couldn't believe that she was nominated among global artists, such as Rema. "This puts me in the conversations among other prominent artists and no longer being referred to as the young artist on the come-up.
She appreciates award ceremonies, but wants to focus more on making great music than on awards in general.
“Awards come with praise but also with disappointments, but I will always appreciate my name being mentioned in such celebratory events because it shows that my work is getting more recognition,” she stated.
However, she does recognise the opportunities that come with her name being recognised and being nominated for awards. She elaborated, “This nomination made me realise I have the potential to shine outside of my comfort zone. Not just locally, but in other countries as well.”
As a young artist, she has already achieved significant success through her dedication. Notably, she won the Sofn'free Africa Afro Pop Artist of the Year award at the Basadi Music Awards in 2024.
In 2025, she went on to remarkable strides, which rewarded her with a Best African Song and Best R&B Song nomination at the Metro FM Music Awards for her hit song "Romeo & Juliet" alongside Mawelele.
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