Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – 14 April 2026
Gagasi FM, proudly known as The Sound of KZN, commemorated a remarkable milestone—20 years of broadcasting excellence—with an intimate stakeholder dinner honouring its valued stakeholders, partners, and collaborators. Hosted at the prestigious 9th Avenue Marina in Durban, the evening served as an elegant tribute to the station’s legacy, cultural impact, and continued growth within KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.
The refined celebration was expertly hosted by renowned Indaba Presenter Alex Mthiyane alongside the dynamic Gagasi FM Drive presenter Selbeyonce Mkhize, setting the tone for a night of prestige, reflection, and celebration.
March 2026 marked Gagasi FM’s 20-year anniversary two decades of shaping the soundscape of KwaZulu-Natal as a leading bilingual regional commercial radio station. Over the years, the station has built a powerful connection with its audience through authentic storytelling, experimental events , innovative programming, and community-driven initiatives that resonate deeply with the people of the province.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Gagasi FM has rolled out a series of commemorative activities, including community activations, school visits, and a refreshed programming lineup further reinforcing its commitment to uplifting and reflecting the culture, voices, and aspirations of KwaZulu-Natal.
The evening commenced with a warm and gracious welcome from our Business Development lead ,Khulekani Shandu and an interview with Commercial hub HOD , Pinky Myeni , who acknowledged the vital role of stakeholders in the station’s journey:
“The reason why Gagasi FM still stands is because of all the clients that believe in the brand. iJourney yeGagasi is not just about the listeners—it’s about the clients and stakeholders who keep the lights on. There are clients who have believed in the brand’s story and vision from its inception, and they have consistently supported us. It is important that we take a moment to honour and appreciate those who continue to pour into the brand as we reflect on the journey we’ve taken together.”
This was followed by a compelling keynote address from Managing Director Minenhle Dlamini, who reflected on the station’s resilience, growth, and future ambitions. The address concluded with a symbolic toast—raising glasses not only to the past, but to the future, to enduring partnerships, and to the next chapter of Gagasi FM’s journey.
Adding further gravitas to the evening, René Schutte, CEO of GH Media Group, delivered an address highlighting Gagasi FM’s strategic growth and continued relevance within South Africa’s evolving media landscape.
A heartfelt and personal reflection was delivered by special guest Lindiwe Khuzwayo (Head of Corporate Affairs at Illovo Sugar South Africa), who spoke to the enduring value and influence of partnering with a regional powerhouse like Gagasi FM. Her moving narrative underscored the strength of long-standing relationships and the power of shared vision.
In celebration of two decades of unforgettable moments and the unmistakable Sound of KZN, guests were treated to a captivating live performance by acclaimed singer-songwriter Simmy. Her soulful performance paid homage to KwaZulu-Natal’s rich musical heritage before the evening transitioned into a vibrant musical showcase led by Gagasi FM’s DJs.
Honouring Excellence: The Golden Wave Awards
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of The Golden Wave Awards, featuring 20 categories recognising the clients, campaigns, and partnerships that have shaped Gagasi FM’s journey. Each award reflected a story of collaboration, innovation, and shared success.
CSI & Partnership Award:
Recognising impactful partnerships and community initiatives:
- Hollywood Foundation
- Halfway Mobility Group
- Moses Mabhida Stadium
Best Event Collaboration (3+ Years Consistently):
Celebrating long-standing partnerships through the Gagasi FM Annual BeachFest:
- Absa
- Telkom
- Durban Tourism
Always ON Award:
Recognising consistent and impactful on-air collaborations:
- eThekwini Municipality
- Hollywoodbets
- Ray Nkonyeni Municipality
- KZN Department of Sports, Arts & Culture
- TBWA / SPAR
- uMzumbe Municipality
- Harry Gwala District Municipality
- KZN Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (on the ground presence & activations)
- Take n Pay
The Out-Of-The-Box Campaign Award:
Celebrating bold and innovative campaigns:
- KZN Department of Transport – Nenzani Lapho eZweni
- KZN Department of Health – Sigubha uMswarelo
The Plot-Twist Award:
Recognising unexpected yet highly successful campaigns:
- Ncanda Funerals – Ungamncishi Inkomo Campaign
- Nandos – The Gagasi FM Top100 sponsorship
A distinguished Special Honour was presented to the KwaZulu Natal Office of the Premier in recognition of their continued partnership with the station.
As Gagasi FM reflects on 20 years of broadcasting excellence, the station remains steadfast in its mission – to inform, entertain, and empower. With a renewed vision and strengthened partnerships, Gagasi FM is poised to continue amplifying the voices of KwaZulu-Natal for generations to come.
Here’s to the next 20 years of broadcasting excellence.
#MadeInKZN #GagasiFM #TheSoundOfKZN
