All Africa Music Awards …
The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next two editions of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
In a letter signed by the AUC’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligns with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.
The AU has described AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa’s diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country.
According to organisers, AFRIMAs hosting rights are “usually bestowed on a country that shows capacity and commitment to meet up with the requirements and conditions.”
AUC’s acting director for social development, culture, and sports, Angela Martins, noted that hosting AFRIMAs offers the host country opportunities for cultural showcasing, music sector development, tourism promotion and economic growth.
“This call to action comes as part of the AU’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across the African continent,” she said. “We urge the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to seize this opportunity to strengthen intra-African collaboration in line with AfCFTA [the African Continental Free Trade Area] within the music industry and enhance their international visibility positively.
“AFRIMAs serve as a premier platform for African artists in Africa and diaspora to showcase their talent, gain international exposure and connect with audiences worldwide.”
The AFRIMAs, first held in 2014, operate based on core pillars encompassing awards, festivals, a creative academy, talent discovery and promotion, a music business hub, advocacy, and advisory and policy debates. It is usually broadcast live to over 84 countries.
Last year’s edition, tagged the “Teranga Edition”, was held in Senegal, and marked the first time that the awards ceremony was held in a Francophone African country. Afrobeats superstar Davido was the biggest winner on the night, clinching four awards: Best Male Artist in African Inspirational Music, Best Artist in African Pop categories, Best African Collaboration and Best Duo Group in African Electro. The Artist of the Year accolade went to Burna Boy, who also bagged Album of the Year.
Learn more about the AFRIMAs by visiting their official website.