Ukhozi FM Chose That Song?! Umafikizolo Crowned Crossover King For 2026 — Mzansi Cries Foul

The countdown to 2026 was supposed to be pure vibes… but instead, it turned into online chaos. As South Africans debated which song would officially carry us into the new year, Ukhozi FM finally announced its winner — and let’s just say, not everyone was clapping.

In the early hours of Thursday, 1 January 2026, popular X (Twitter) account MDNews confirmed that rising Maskandi star Umafikizolo had won the coveted Ukhozi FM Ingoma Ehlukanisa Unyaka title. Cue celebration for some — and serious side-eyes from others.

Ukhozi FM Ingoma Ehlukanisa Unyaka Sparks Online Uproar

While Maskandi lovers celebrated the win as a cultural victory, the rest of the timeline? Heated.

The drama intensified after Amapiano vocalist Mawhoo publicly questioned Ukhozi FM’s voting system, hinting that the numbers didn’t make sense — especially considering how her songs were performing on playlists and across platforms.

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MDNews didn’t just drop the winner; they also shared the full Top 10 list, and that’s when the comment section turned into a battlefield.

#SongOfTheYear

Ukhozi FM Top 10

10. Jazzworx, Thukuthela – uMa wengane

9. Zee Nxumalo & Dlala Thukzin – Mali

8. Sam Deep, Nia Pearl, Boohle, Mano – Shela

7. Professor & Larny – Order

6. Ciza ft. Jazzworx, Thukuthela – Isaka

5. Skillz ft Zee and Svkes – Mamma

4. Sjava… pic.twitter.com/3WrntAH5xu

— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) December 31, 2025

Some fans applauded Ukhozi FM for prioritising homegrown sound, while others accused the station of doing what they allegedly do every year — disappointing listeners.

“Voting Must Be Checked!” — Mzansi Reacts Loudly

Social media users wasted zero time sharing their thoughts:

@lelo_mkhondo: “I’m happy with number one, at least it’s a song we all know.”

@SpinnerMzimela: “Until we appreciate our culture and creativity, we’ll remain doomed.”

@dajay_03: “The most popular song of the year is number 8? Very funny.”

@tebogosebs: “The biggest radio station in the country always disappoints.”

@mgazi_mc: “Thukuthela and Jazzworx carried 2025. One of those was SOTY.”

Others argued that certain songs had real-world impact, citing moments where crowds erupted into dance at public events — something they believe should matter more than mystery votes. Still, a few users simply shrugged and said the outcome was obvious.

So now the big question is: Did Ukhozi FM get it right — or is this another crossover controversy waiting to age badly?

Drop your verdict — deserved win or daylight robbery?

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