Development Alert: Trace Africa's Pan African Offering Is Being Axed On DStv For More Mzansi Vibes With Trace Ngoma

Trace, in partnership with Canal+ and MultiChoice, will rebrand Trace Africa as Trace Ngoma, with the channel scheduled to launch on 18 December 2025 at 3pm CAT on DStv Channel 326. This follows news that Paramount will be axing MTV Base by the end of December which curated local hits.

The rebrand of Trace Africa to Trace Ngoma positions the channel as a platform focused on South African music and culture, with programming centred on locally rooted genres such as amapiano, Afro-pop, maskandi, hip hop, gqom, lekompo and urban gospel. The change is intended to align the channel more closely with South African audiences and the country’s evolving music landscape.

The name ‘Ngoma’, which is associated with the concepts of drumbeat, celebration, unity and heritage, is used to reflect a renewed focus on local languages, traditions and artistic expression.

“Our customers want to see themselves reflected on screen – their music, their languages, their culture,” MultiChoice CEO Willington Ngwepe said. “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.”

Trace co-founder and chief executive Olivier Laouchez said the channel will serve as a space for cultural expression and representation.

“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,” he said.

The channel will feature a range of locally curated programmes, including Amapiano Plz, Maskandi Vibes, Ke Hip Hop Dawg!, Lekompo Fela and Top 10 Afro-pop.

In addition, the line-up will include live performances, DJ sets, documentary-style storytelling and faith-based formats such as Gospel Kickstarter. The programming is expected to highlight both established artists and emerging talent, alongside grassroots cultural movements.

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