The 19th annual south african film and television awards are underway in midrand, celebrating excellence in the country's film and tv sector. Chairperson kethiwe ngcobo highlighted the event's role in recognising creatives amid industry challenges. The ceremony features awards for productions, actors, directors and behind-the-scenes talent from early 2024 to mid-2025.
The 19th annual south african film and television awards (saftas) took place on march 14, 2026, at the gallagher convention centre in midrand, north of johannesburg. Themed “one story. One industry. One future: celebrating south africa’s screen legacy together,” the event gathered actors, producers, directors and other industry professionals to honour excellence in local productions released between early 2024 and mid-2025. Major production companies competed alongside up-and-coming talent across various categories, spotlighting both on-screen performers and behind-the-scenes contributors. Saftas chairperson kethiwe ngcobo described the awards as a vital recognition for those working in a challenging environment. “It’s about recognition. It’s about seeing and acknowledging people who have worked hard in a very difficult environment in the industry at the moment, and who are being recognised for the work they do behind the camera and in front of the camera. Tonight it’s all in front of the camera, but you’ll also see some producers and directors, and we’re really, really excited. It’s an exciting evening for the whole of the industry,” ngcobo said. The ceremony underscored the contributions of south africa's film and television sector, validating the efforts of creatives in both front-of-camera and production roles. Reporting by luyanda danca.
