Entries Now Open for the 2026 Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards

South Africa’s comedy industry is officially gearing up for its biggest celebration of the year as entries open for the 13th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards (SCCCA). In proud partnership with Savanna Premium Cider, the 2026 awards season promises to spotlight the country’s top comedic talents – from rising stars and online creators to the biggest names in stand-up.

What makes these awards unique is their credibility within the industry: comedians vote for comedians, ensuring the accolades are a true reflection of peer recognition, respect, and impact.

Celebrating Comedy in Every Form

Whether you’re performing live on stage or breaking new ground with viral digital content, there’s a category tailored to your craft. This year introduces three new awards, further expanding the platform’s reach and celebrating how comedy continues to evolve.

Categories Open for Entry

Stand-Up Comedy Awards

• Savanna Newcomer Award – For comedians with up to 3 years of professional experience.
• Breakthrough Act of the Year – Recognising rising talent up to 7 years in the industry.
• Headliner of the Year – Celebrating consistent excellence in live performance.
• Comedian of the Year – The highest industry honour, voted by fellow comedians.
• Best Solo Show – Awarded to the standout one-person show or tour.
• Best Comedy Festival or Show – Recognising excellence in event curation and production.
• The Joe Mafela Award – For comedians who perform predominantly in South African languages other than English.
• Innovative Comedy Performance Award – Honouring boundary-pushing comedic expression.

New Stand-Up Categories for 2026

• Beyond the Mic Award – For comedians who have expanded their influence beyond stand-up.
• The Legacy Award – Honouring a lifetime of comedic excellence and cultural impact.
• Best Friend of Comedy Award – Celebrating a comedian who uplifts and strengthens the comedy community.

Content Category

• Comedic Content Award – Recognising exceptional comedic creators working predominantly in digital and online spaces.

A Launchpad for South Africa’s Biggest Comedy Stars

Since its inception, the SCCCA has helped launch the careers of some of South Africa’s most celebrated comedians, including:
Trevor Noah, Loyiso Gola, Tumi Morake, Sifiso Nene, Kagiso Lediga, Celeste Ntuli, Schalk Bezuidenhout, Mpho Popps Modikoane, and Robby Collins.

These awards continue to elevate local comedy onto the global stage, showcasing South African storytelling with humour, intelligence, and heart.

How to Enter

Entries are now open at www.comicschoice.com

• Savanna Newcomer Award entries close: Tuesday, 11 November 2025
• All other categories close: Tuesday, 09 December 2025

Save the Date

Awards Ceremony: April 2026
Location: Johannesburg
Expect a spectacular evening of unforgettable performances, red-carpet glamour, and the crowning of South Africa’s finest comedic talent.

Follow the conversation online with #SavannaCCA for updates, nominee announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.