Laughter took centre stage at The Lyric Theatre as South Africa’s comedy elite gathered for the 12th Annual Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Awards—a night where punchlines reigned supreme and “Comics Do It Best” wasn’t just a slogan, but a fact.
Backed by presenting partners Savanna Premium Cider, Mrs. Ball’s, One-eyed Jack, and Comedy Central, this year’s event brought the house down with world-class comedy, heartfelt tributes, and unforgettable moments.
Nina Hastie and Carvin H Goldstone brought their A-game as hosts, opening the show with sizzling chemistry, cheeky fashion jokes, and just enough mayhem to keep the crowd on their toes.
One of the night’s standout acts? A hilarious parody of “Cherry Eyi’ One,” transformed by winner Vafa Naraghi and crew into a musical tribute to none other than Mrs. Ball’s Chutney. A sweet (and spicy) surprise, indeed.
KG Mokgadi brought the headlines to the stage with a set that tackled politics and refugee issues with razor-sharp wit—proving yet again that “comics do news best.”
And in a moment of both comedy and reverence, Mashabela Galane introduced the Joe Mafela Award with a short set that reminded everyone why he’s still considered one of SA’s national treasures.
The Savanna Comics’ Choice Comedy Award winners for 2025 are:
- Breakthrough Act of the Year: Khanyisa JamJam
- Best Comedy Festival or Show: That’s Not Funny: Moveable Feast Comedy Night
- The Eb Award (Presented by Savanna Premium Cider): Khanyisile Ngwenya
- Best Solo Show: Robby Collins – Come As You Are Tour
- Innovative Comedy Performance: Céline Tshika
- Sauce of the Year (Presented by Mrs. Ball’s): Noko Mashaba
- Joe Mafela Award: King Flat
- Headliner of the Year: Robby Collins
- Winners’ Choice Award: Sifiso Nene
- Comedian of the Year: Celeste Ntuli
Savanna Premium Cider marked its twelfth year as presenting partner, continuing its legacy of celebrating local comedy with heart and humour.
“Twelve years of backing the boldest punchlines in the land – and we’re still laughing (and crying… from laughing),” said Kayla Hendricks, Marketing Communication Manager. “We’re proud to support a platform that unites South Africans, tackles the absurd, and keeps our national spirit alive—one dry joke and crisp cider at a time.”
Mrs. Ball’s, now a three-time sponsor, added flavour to the night once again—this year, spotlighting the Sauce of the Year category. Alongside One-eyed Jack and Comedy Central, they helped make the 2025 event one to remember.
A particularly emotional highlight was the renaming of the Newcomer Award to The Eb Award, in honour of the late comedian Ebenhaezer Dibakwane, who won the title in 2016. The tribute drew heartfelt applause and was a poignant reminder of the deep respect shared in South Africa’s comedy community.
With ten Waldo trophies handed out, a stage full of talent, and a room bursting with laughter, this year’s Comedy Awards proved once again: nobody does it better than SA’s comics.
