MUSIC CHANNEL TRACE AFRICA REBRANDS TO TRACE NGOMA
The New Home of South African Music and Culture on DStv Channel 326
In a move to deepen its connection with local audiences, Trace, in partnership with Canal+ and MultiChoice, has announced the rebrand of TRACE AFRICA to TRACE NGOMA, set to take place this December.
Deeply rooted in the heartbeat of South Africa, TRACE NGOMA is positioned as a celebration of the rhythms, voices, and stories that shape the country’s cultural identity. The channel will spotlight homegrown sounds, spanning amapiano, Afro-pop, maskandi, hip-hop, gqom, lekompo, and urban gospel, bringing audiences closer to the artists, languages, and movements defining today’s music landscape. The channel officially launches on 18 December 2025 at 15:00 CAT on DStv Channel 326.
A Channel That Speaks South Africa’s Language
Inspired by the meaning of “Ngoma” – drumbeat, celebration, unity, and heritage – the rebrand strengthens the channel’s cultural relevance by reflecting the sounds, languages, and lived experiences of South Africans.
“Our customers want to see themselves reflected on screen – their music, their languages, their culture. TRACE NGOMA brings that to life in a powerful way. This rebrand aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver meaningful local entertainment that celebrates who we are as South Africans,” said Willington Ngwepe, CEO at MultiChoice.
TRACE’s Commitment to Local Music Culture
With an expanded programming slate and a renewed focus on local content, TRACE NGOMA aims to spotlight emerging talent, honour established legends, and amplify grassroots cultural movements across the country.
“TRACE NGOMA is where music meets identity. It amplifies the rhythms and stories that define South African culture and gives young people a space to connect and feel seen,” added Olivier Laouchez, Co-Founder and CEO of Trace.
Local Shows, Local Talent, Local Stories
The channel will feature a diverse range of locally curated shows, including:
- Amapiano Plz
- Maskandi Vibes
- Ke Hip Hop Dawg!
- Lekompo Fela
- Top 10 Afropop
Viewers can also expect live performances, DJ sets, docu-stories, and faith-inspired programming such as Gospel Kickstarter.
TRACE NGOMA officially launches on 18 December 2025 at 15:00 CAT on DStv Channel 326, promising audiences a richer, more culturally resonant local entertainment experience.
