Maputo, 20 November 2023 — In a resounding celebration of musical excellence and cultural diversity, the critically acclaimed album “Sounds of Peace” has been honoured with the coveted South African Music Awards (SAMA) for the Rest of Africa category. This prestigious accolade recognizes the outstanding contribution of the album in bridging borders and fostering unity through the universal language of music.
Also produced by Moreira Chonguiça, the album seamlessly weaves together a tapestry of languages, melodies, rhythms, and voices from across Mozambique, creating a harmonious sonic experience that resonates with audiences worldwide. The Rest of Africa Award at the SAMAs is a testament to the album’s exceptional artistry and its ability to transcend geographical boundaries.
Moreira Chonguiça expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Receiving the SAMA for the Rest of Africa Award is a tremendous honour. Sounds of Peace was a labour of love, aiming to showcase the rich musical tapestry of Mozambique and promote a message of unity and understanding. This award is not just a recognition of our work but also a celebration of the diverse musical traditions that make up my beautiful country.”
The South African Music Awards (SAMA), is an esteemed annual event that has for the past 29 years celebrated excellence in the South African music industry across a wide spectrum of genres, and has expanded its recognition to include the Rest of Africa category in acknowledgment of the continent’s vast and varied musical contributions.
This is Moreira’s fourth SAMA. He previously won Best Producer in 2005 for his album Vol 1: The Journey as well as Best Contemporary Jazz Album and Best Album Cover in 2009 for Vol 2: Citizen of the World.
Moreira’s Sounds of Peace album stood out among the nominees for its ability to transcend genres and cultural boundaries while delivering a powerful message of unity and peace. The award-winning album features some of Mozambique’s young up and coming music talent.
As the winner of the Rest of Africa Award, “Sounds of Peace” joins the ranks of influential albums that have left an indelible mark on the African music landscape. The album serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music to bring people together, fostering understanding and appreciation for the shared heritage of the continent.
The team behind Sounds of Peace extends heartfelt gratitude to the South African Music Awards for this prestigious recognition and looks forward to continuing their musical journey, promoting peace, harmony, and cultural diplomacy through the universal language of music.
Moreira is also a great supporter of Music Exchange and has spoken many times at the conference, along with his manager Lesley Wells.
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This pic with Moreira was taken last year at the 2022 Music Exchange Johannesburg event alongside, Sipho Mabuse (MEX Chairperson), Marc Marot holding the album, Marc is the former CEO of Island Records in London and music executive Robin Chivazve from Botswana.
ABOUT MOREIRA CHONGUIÇA
Moreira Chonguiça is an internationally acclaimed jazz saxophonist and composer hailing from Mozambique.
His music blends jazz with Mozambican rhythms to create a unique and captivating sound that transcends borders and inspires unity and reconciliation. Moreira Chonguiça’s work embodies the power of music to heal and unite.
Website: Moreiramusic.com
The album is available on all major streaming platforms
Social media:
FB – Facebook
IG – Instagram
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YT – YouTube
For any additional information or pictures, contact Lesley Wells +27837028139
Martin Myers 
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