The 26th edition of the South African Music Awards has been postponed until further notice.
The premiere awards show that honours local music talent has taken cue from the announcements by the State President Cyril Ramaphosa brought upon by the Covid-19 pandemic.
A statement sent out on behalf of the Recording Industry of South Africa said that new dates for the nominees announcement and the award ceremony will be made public depending on the advice from the government regarding the pandemic and when the situation in the country and the world improves.
"The SAMA wishes to send heartfelt condolences to the families of the two people who have succumbed to Covid-19 and a speedy recovery to those infected and affected by the virus. To all followers and supporters of South African music we urge you to practice basic hygiene and follow the instructions from government officials: Stay safe, stay home"
This announcement follows a string of other large events around Mzansi and the world that have either been cancelled or postponed.
Earlier this month the organisers of the South African Film and Television Awards also announced that the awards were postponed.
In the statement the National Film and Video Foundation said, "In light of the announcement made by President Ramaphosa and the Government’s strict actions in response to the Covid-19, the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) would like to inform you that the 14th Annual South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs14) will no longer take place at the Sandton Convention Centre on 27 – 28 March 2020. Further details will be communicated in due course."