MAMA picks Trevor Noah as host

As notable African entertainers, celebrities and stakeholders in the showbiz industry get set to jet into Johannesburg for the sixth edition of the Africa Music Awards Johannesburg 2016 (MAMA), South African comedy legend and host of Comedy Central’s The Daily Show, Trevor Noah, has been unveiled as host for this year’s event.
 
Noah, who will be heading home in October to host Africa’s most prestigious music awards ceremony, will preside over the live 2-hour telecast at the Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg, on October 22.  Featuring performances from top rated African stars such as Alikiba, Babes Woduma, Cassper Nyovest, Nasty C, Ycee and Yemi Alade, MAMA 2016 will also stream online on MTV Base. Other performers will be announced soon.Previous hosts of the MAMA have included Wyclef Jean, Eve, Marlon Wayans, Anthony Anderson and Trevor Nelson.

“I’m a huge fan of African music and achievement, and it’s going to be a massive pleasure celebrating them both at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2016 in my own home town of Johannesburg,” excited Trevor Noah said.  

Speaking on the choice of Noah as host, Alex Okosi, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN Africa) said, “Trevor Noah is an outstanding entertainer, and testament to the amazing talent that Africa has to offer the world. To have him host the MAMA, our annual celebration of Africa music, creativity and achievement, is a powerful and inspiring message. We are delighted that our first ever show in Johannesburg will be presented by one of the city’s most loved and admired personalities,” he noted.

Highlighting the ‘gold standard’ in contemporary music, creativity and achievement, The MTV Africa Music Awards Johannesburg 2016 promises to be the biggest and best ever, with more than 15,000 fans expected to fill out the Ticketpro Dome for the joyous celebration.

The definitive annual celebration of African and international talent and achievement, MAMA 2016 recognises and rewards musicians and achievers who have made the most impact on African music and youth culture over the previous year. The ceremony will feature stunning performances from African and international artists along with the show’s signature cross-genre and cross-border collaborations.

The award ceremony will broadcast live on MTV Base (DStv Channel 322) and MTV (DStv Channel 130) on Saturday 22 October at 21:00 CAT. The show will also be transmitted worldwide on partner stations and content platforms from October onwards, while MTV channels around the world will broadcast a one-hour MAMA-themed MTV World Stage.