Naledi Aphiwe says she plans to release more music this year and her debut album.
The 19-year-old Afro-pop artist states that she is now focused on her musical growth. She started 2026 with gratitude after being nominated for best African duo or group in R&B alongside Mawelele at the ninth All Africa Music Awards, which concluded in Lagos on Sunday.
Although they did not win the award, Aphiwe says she was 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 says.
She was up against the likes of Kunmie from Nigeria, Manal from Morocco, and 2024 Grammy award-nominee, Rema.
Aphiwe says she could not believe she was nominated alongside 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 says she appreciates award ceremonies, but wants to focus more on making great music.
“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 states.
However, Aphiwe says she recognises the opportunities that come with her nominations.
“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 made 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.
– IOL News
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