Music Channel ‘TRACE AFRICA’ Rebrands To ‘TRACE NGOMA’

As part of Trace’s ongoing commitment to enhance their customers’ viewing experience and deliver content that resonates deeply with local audiences, Trace together with Canal + and MultiChoice announce the rebrand of TRACE AFRICA to TRACE NGOMA this December.

Deeply rooted in the heartbeat of South Africa, TRACE NGOMA celebrates the rhythms, voices, and stories that define the nation’s cultural identity. The channel showcases homegrown sounds – from amapiano and Afro-pop to maskandi, hip-hop, gqom, lemkompo and urban gospel — bringing viewers closer to the artists, languages and cultural movements shaping today’s music landscape. Set to launch on the 18th of December 2025, at 15h00 CAT on DStv Channel 326.

Reflecting the meaning of “Ngoma” – drumbeat, celebration, unity and heritage – the rebrand strengthens connection with South African audiences by offering content that mirrors their sound, their languages and their lived experiences.

“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.” affirmed Willington Ngwepe, CEO at MultiChoice, the broadcasting service licensee entity.

With an expanded slate of programmes and renewed local focus, TRACE NGOMA will spotlight rising talent, honour genre legends, and highlight grassroots cultural movements across the country.

Olivier Laouchez, Co Founder & CEO Trace added “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.”

TRACE NGOMA will feature a broad selection of locally curated shows, including: Amapiano plz, Maskandi Vibes, Ke Hip Hop Dawg!, Lekompo Fela, Top 10 Afropop, live performances, DJ sets, docu-stories, and faith-inspired formats such as Gospel Kickstarter. 

TRACE NGOMA officially launches 18 December 2025 at 15h00 CAT on DStv Channel 326. Customers will continue to enjoy the best in local entertainment, now with even greater cultural relevance.