Kalawa Jazmee record label founder and DJ Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwana was honoured by the South African state this week at the 2026 National Orders Awards, held at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria.
Mdlongwana received the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, recognising his large-scale impact on opening doors for young artists and helping to pioneer the kwaito movement.
Speaking after the ceremony, he said the moment felt far bigger than personal achievement. “My first thought was that this is bigger than me. I have never seen myself as self-made. This honour belongs to my musical family, Kalawa Jazmee—the pioneers who came before us—along with the artists, producers and collaborators who have shared this journey,” he said.
He added that the award signals how music is being valued beyond entertainment. “It means music is being recognised as more than entertainment. It is culture, storytelling and nation-building. For me, this honour reflects an entire generation that used music to inspire, unite and create opportunities.”
Although his career has already included more than two decades of recognition and accolades, he explained that this particular honour carries a different weight because it prompted him to revisit his path. “This is different because it comes from the nation. Industry awards are special, but this recognises a contribution to South African culture and society,” he said, describing it as “deeply humbling.”
Mdlongwana also pointed to the people who shaped his worldview, saying, “I immediately thought of my late father, who always taught me humility opens doors, and my family, who have always lived through prayer and faith. I also thought of my Kalawa Jazmee family and everyone who helped shape this journey. Celebration starts with gratitude, prayer and family.”
Looking ahead, he said the recognition has only strengthened his motivation to keep mentoring the next generation, with a focus on preserving the heritage of South African music.
Other prominent creatives honoured at the same ceremony included Grammy-winning flautist and composer Wouter Kellerman, who received the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold for his global achievements, and singer-songwriter Jonathan Butler, who was also awarded the order in Silver in recognition of his lifelong contributions to the arts.
