Congratulatory messages have poured in from across the world following Tyla’s historic win at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, where the South African global sensation walked away with her second Grammy trophy.
Tyla once again claimed the award for Best African Music Performance for her hit single Push 2 Start, following her previous victory with Water.
The milestone makes her the first artist to win the category twice, further solidifying her status as one of Africa’s most influential musical exports and a defining voice of her generation.
The landmark achievement has been widely celebrated at home, with Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe hailing the moment as a defining chapter for South African arts and culture. The awards ceremony, held in Los Angeles in the United States on 1 February 2026, showcased South Africa’s powerful presence and historic achievements on one of the world’s most prestigious cultural stages.
Mabe said the Grammys once again placed South African creativity at the centre of global cultural discourse, with local talent not only recognised through accolades but also prominently represented in hosting, performance, fashion and international media visibility.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Tyla on this historic achievement,” Mabe said. “Her continued success at the Grammy Awards is a source of national pride and a testament to the depth of talent, discipline and innovation that exists within our creative industries.”
She further noted that Tyla’s global visibility extends far beyond music, pointing to South Africa’s expanding cultural footprint across fashion, youth culture and digital influence.
“This moment speaks to the broader impact of South Africa’s creative economy. It reflects years of artistic development, cultural investment and the resilience of our artists who continue to carry South African stories to the world,” she said.
The ceremony was hosted for the sixth and final consecutive year by internationally acclaimed South African comedian and broadcaster Trevor Noah, whose tenure as host has been widely credited with modernising the Grammys’ global appeal and broadening its cultural reach.
Mabe said Noah's continued presence on the Grammy stage once again symbolised South Africa’s contribution not only to music, but to global storytelling, commentary and creative leadership at the highest level.
“The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture continues to prioritise the growth and sustainability of the creative sector through targeted programmes that support artistic development, intellectual property protection, international market access and cultural exchange. These efforts align with national objectives to position arts and culture as key drivers of economic growth, social cohesion and global engagement,” Mabe said.
Political parties also joined the chorus of congratulations, with the Democratic Alliance (DA) praising Tyla’s achievement as a win for both South Africa and the African continent.
“This milestone not only underscores Tyla’s extraordinary talent and global appeal but also highlights the world-class creativity emerging from South Africa and across the African continent,” the party said. “Her success on the international stage brings pride to our country and showcases the powerful influence of South African music in the global cultural landscape.”
The DA further applauded the artist’s dedication to her craft and the inspiration she continues to provide to young creatives.
“We wish her continued success in her career and future artistic endeavours. Congratulations, Tyla, a true trailblazer for South African music.”
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie also lauded Tyla’s achievement, describing her as a symbol of South African excellence and ambition on the global stage.
“Tyla continues to make history and to fly the South African flag high on the world’s biggest cultural stages,” McKenzie said. “This Grammy win is not only a recognition of her individual brilliance, but a celebration of South African creativity, resilience and innovation.”
He added that her journey serves as a powerful reminder to young people across the country that global success is possible from homegrown beginnings.
“Her journey shows young people across our country that global excellence is possible from right here at home. Through her music, Tyla is telling a South African story to the world, and the world is listening.”
McKenzie reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to supporting the growth and international success of South African artists through policies, partnerships and platforms that enable local talent to compete globally.
“We congratulate Tyla, her team, and everyone who has supported her journey. She represents the very best of South Africa’s cultural future, and we know that the best for her is yet to come,” the Minister said.
Saturday Star