Latest news with #AFRIMA
Zawya
27-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) To Train 1.2 Million Young Africans in Five (5) Years
As part of its commitment to one of its seven core pillars, the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, ( is set to launch The AFRIMA Kreative Academy, TAKA, a project designed to reshape Africa's creative sector through education, skills development, and job creation to empower 1.2 million young Africans over the next five years with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the fast-growing global music industry. Themed 'Learn and Prosper', the programme is designed to equip and empower young Africans between the ages of 18 and 35, with a special focus on underserved and vulnerable communities across the continent. AFRIMA Founder and Executive Producer, Mike Dada said with over two decades of experience in the creative industry, the awards platform is launching this academy to address the urgent need for skilled professionals in Africa's growing music scene, adding that despite the continent's talent, there is still a major gap in structured training and access to opportunities. Dada, who announced the initiative during the 2025 AFRIMA Music Conference, Calendar and Host City Unveiling event hosted by the African Union Commission (AUC) at its headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday, May 13 said TAKA will provide world-class training in key areas of the music ecosystem and value chain including but not limited to music production, music business and entrepreneurship, event technical production, digital technology and the Internet of Things (IoT). He said the academy will operate three training cycles each year, with each cycle running for four months over five years. To ensure the highest quality of training, he added that AFRIMA will bring together some of the best minds in the industry including top music producers, successful artists, expert sound engineers, and experienced event professionals from both Africa and the diaspora who will serve as trainers, mentors and employers to guide participants throughout the programme. "Beyond skill acquisition, TAKA is expected to drive broader social and economic benefit including improved knowledge and capacity among young creatives, increased job creation, the promotion of African culture, and overall economic empowerment that will drive prosperous Africa," Dada told an elated gathering of key stakeholders present at the AU headquarters during the unveiling of Lagos as the Host City of the AFRIMA 2025. "This is our response to the urgent need for practical learning and job creation in the music and creative industry space. If Africa wants to keep competing at the global level in music and cultural industry, we must do more than just celebrate talent. We have to invest in training and preparing our young people for real opportunities in the industry. "We are calling on investors, development partners, governments, and the corporate world to support the initiative and join in creating a legacy of impact. With the right support, we can unlock the full potential of our young people, elevate African music business and event production industry to new heights, and build a more prosperous future for the continent." He added that for long-term sustainability, AFRIMA plans to build strategic partnerships with key players in the creative and tech industries around the world, establish an endowment fund, and foster generational impact through services rendered by the academy. Similarly, AFRIMA is getting ready to go even bigger, as the Africa's Global Music Awards is planning to launch a Global Tour in 2026. This was shared by Nde Ndifonka, AFRIMA's Regional Director for Central Africa, who said the global tour will include live music mega shows, performances, and cultural events in major cities across Africa and around the world. 'We're excited to share that starting in 2026, this global tour will become a major part of AFRIMA's yearly activities,' Ndifonka said. 'Many music fans and industry players have asked for something like this, and we're happy to make it happen. Music concerts and tours are important for building a strong music industry. They give artists the chance to perform live, connect with fans, earn money, and sharpen their stage skills. This tour will travel through many cities in Africa and beyond. We believe it will open new doors for African music and help it shine even more globally.' Ndifonka explained that AFRIMA 2025, which officially kicked off with the unveiling of its Calendar and Host City in Addis Ababa on May 13, will serve as a lead-up to an even bigger dimension next year that will include the highly anticipated Global Tour. He noted that AFRIMA 2025 will climax with the Awards Week from November 25 to 30, featuring a lineup of exciting events such as the Diamond Showcase, Africa Music Business Summit, Nominees Party, Music Village Festival, and the Main Awards Ceremony on Sunday, November 30. The ceremony will be broadcast live on over 84 TV stations across the world and digital platforms. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Makhadzi's Ethiopian escapade: celebrating heritage one beat at a time
Makhadzi at the African Union Building in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Image: Instagram South African music sensation Makhadzi is currently on an extraordinary journey, exploring the vibrant culture and history of Ethiopia. Known for her captivating performances and infectious energy, the musician has embraced the sights and sounds of Addis Ababa, a city steeped in rich heritage and significance. Makhadzi has taken to Instagram to share the highlights of her adventure as she visits Ethiopia, a country famed for its breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and delicious cuisine. She expressed her excitement in anticipation of the prestigious African Music Awards (AFRIMA), where she has been selected as a panelist for the 2025 Music Beyond Borders Conference. 'I am happy and excited to be part of the 2025 AFRIMA awards panel. This really means a lot to me as a musician to be trusted and recognised to come and state my mind about African music,' she shared in a heartfelt post. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Reflecting on her first day at the AFRIMA conference, Makhadzi described it as 'the best of the best', showcasing her enthusiasm for collaborative discussions about the future of music across the continent. Providing a touching recount of her journey, she highlighted the challenges she faced: 'Years back, my people made fun of my English … today I am one of the panellists of the biggest awards in Africa. It all started as a dream; the rest is history.' She proudly noted, 'Just to be the first South African artist to open the 2025 calendar of the AFRIMA awards says a lot.' As part of her Ethiopian experience, Makhadzi visited the African Union Building Headquarters and delved into the country's complicated history by touring museums dedicated to Ethiopia's cultural legacy. 'Going to the museum to learn about Ethiopian history was one of the best moments. Did you know Ethiopia is in the 2017?' she exclaimed, marvelling at the unique perspective the country holds. She even expressed a newfound commitment to explore her own roots further, stating, 'I now owe myself to go back to the Venda museum to learn about Vhavenda. I am officially proudly African and unstoppable.' Makhadzi's adventures also included learning about historical figures like the Queen of Sheba and Emperor Haile Selassie, enriching her understanding of the region. As a testament to her journey, she shared a lively video of herself dancing to traditional Ethiopian music, capturing the essence of her spirited exploration. This visit coincides with the celebration of Africa Month in South Africa, as the continent gears up for Africa Day on May 25 - a date marking the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963. Makhadzi's travels not only celebrate her accomplishments but also serve as a vibrant reminder of the cultural tapestry that makes up the continent.
Zawya
01-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Nigeria: Lagos govt committed to development of creative industry — Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has thrown his weight behind the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2025, which is set to be hosted in the state, assuring that his administration will continue to provide opportunities, hope, and space for people in the creative industry to thrive. Governor Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by members of AFRIMA and representatives of the African Union Commission (AUC) at Lagos House, Ikeja, on Tuesday, amplifying the growing momentum around the highly anticipated event, which has already garnered backing from key stakeholders, institutions, and corporate sponsors at national, continental, and international levels. The governor further affirmed that his administration would continue to create clear business opportunities and a conducive environment for individuals in the creative industry to excel. 'He noted that Lagos had given life to many people in entertainment, fashion, and the arts by supporting them to actualise their dreams while helping them showcase their talents. 'It was not difficult for us to make entertainment, tourism, and everything in the creative space one of our cardinal objectives. We are very intentional because we realise that the creative industry is a place where the youth, with a dynamic population, want to be. 'It is also the largest employer of labour in different ways and means. But more importantly, it helps to tell the African story — a story the entire world has not heard — and enables us to promote and work with it. 'As a government, what we set out to do is to continue to give opportunity, hope, and space for creative people. 'We will give them the platform and create a clear business opportunity and environment for them to thrive and do well. Lagos has become a destination for good reasons. 'We know AFRIMA. It is indeed an honour that, as strategic as we are, AFRIMA deemed it fit to hold its 2025 events in Lagos. It comes with responsibility and commitment. 'Lagos is capable, and it is big enough to host AFRIMA, and we will take it forward. We have the structures and infrastructure to support AFRIMA,' the governor stated. Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Ms. Angela Martins, who is also the Head of the Culture Department and Acting Director of Social Development, Culture, and Sports of the African Union, expressed appreciation for past support from the Lagos State Government for AFRIMA, aimed at promoting the cultural and creative industries across the continent and recognising musical talent in Africa. 'Lagos has hosted the AFRIMA awards before, and we are truly thankful for the support. 'We are looking forward to more support from the Lagos State Government to host AFRIMA 2025 and beyond,' she said. Also speaking, the President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, Mr. Mike Dada, said the hosting rights for AFRIMA 2025 were ceded to Lagos State in recognition of Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration's hard work, focus, passion for the creative industry, and alignment with entertainment — one of the pillars of the THEMES+ agenda in the state. Dada therefore sought the support, blessings, endorsement, and partnership of Governor Sanwo-Olu and the state government for a successful AFRIMA 2025 in November. 'Lagos State is the mecca of entertainment, music, and the film industry in the Middle East and Africa. We request the right partnership and support to ensure AFRIMA is successfully hosted in Lagos. 'We need institutional and financial support to host over 1,500 artists and managers for the event, which we use to promote African cities and unite our people through music,' he said. Copyright © 2022 Nigerian Tribune Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Broadcast Pro
25-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Broadcast Pro
AFRIMA partners with BridgeAfric for Lagos global music workshop
The event, scheduled to take place from March 26 to 29, 2025 aims to train young creatives, foster international collaborations and further enhance the capabilities of creators and professionals. Lagos is set to become the epicentre of music business and creativity as the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) partners with BridgeAfric and UNESCO to host the Showbiz101 Global Workshop and Music Creation Camp. The event, scheduled from March 26 to 29, 2025, aims to train young creatives, foster international collaborations and strengthen the music production and business ecosystem. Adenrele Niyi, Chief Experience Officer, (CXO), AFRIMA, said the partnership with bridgeAfric on the event underlined the AFRIMA institution's commitment to empowering Africa's creative industry. 'As AFRIMA, part of our mission is building capacity and fostering cross-border collaborations by empowering Africa's creative industry and by providing platforms for artists to collaborate, grow, and break boundaries. Partnering with bridgeAfric for the Showbiz101 Global Workshop & Music Creation Camp is a no-brainer. This initiative is about more than just music; it's about equipping young creatives with the tools, knowledge, and global connections they need to thrive in the industry,' Niyi said. The AFRIMA CXO added that the event aligns with AFRIMA's seven pillars, which include the Music Awards, Music Festivals, AFRIMA Creative Academy, Talent Discovery and Promotions, Music Business Hub, Advocacy, and Advisory & Policy Debates. 'Our goal is to reinforce Africa's position as a moving powerhouse on the global music scene—one hit, one artist, one opportunity at a time and we are excited to be at the fore front of driving this initiative,' she concluded. Victoria Nkong, President of bridgeAfric and an Associate Producer for AFRIMA, highlighted the workshop's role in shaping the future of Africa's creative industry. 'Education is key to addressing challenges in the entertainment sector. This workshop will equip young talents with essential skills and knowledge,' she said. The five-day event will feature performances, training sessions, and a three-day global music camp where top musicians will collaborate to produce an international EP featuring leading African artists. 'By the end of the camp, we will have a global EP featuring top African stars from different countries,' Nkong added. 'Another goal of the workshop is to help artists reach new audiences by connecting them with international music executives. This will open doors for them to promote their music in different parts of the world.' Some of the top artists who have confirmed their participation in the conference and recording camp are Juma Jux from Tanzania, Nadia Nakai from South Africa and DJ Neptune from Nigeria. Ivory Coast will be well represented by global music superstars like the AFRIMA Award winner Didi B, Himra, Suspect 95, Kikimoteleba, Goulam and Gabin Bao. Other notable participants include Bizzle Osikoya, Co-founder of The Plug Entertainment, and Sesan Adeniji, General Manager of Vybz FM. From Algeria, DJ MohGreen will bring his expertise, while Eric Bellamy from Live Nation Paris, France will contribute his knowledge of the global music industry. Sonia Aimy from Canada and Wendy Harawa from Malawi are also expected. In addition to the workshop and music camp, Nkong said a welcome Industry party is scheduled for Wednesday to officially receive the participants. She added that registration is free for music producers, songwriters, and artists who want to learn, network, and advance their music careers.
Zawya
24-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) Partners BridgeAfric, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for Lagos Global Music Workshop
Lagos is set to welcome top music business leaders, celebrities, business executives, and creative industry professionals from around the world as All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA ( partners with bridgeAfric, and UNESCO to host the Showbiz101 Global Workshop and Music Creation Camp. The event, scheduled to take place from March 26th to 29th, 2025 aims to train young creatives, foster international collaborations, and further enhance the capabilities of creators and professionals along the value chain of music production and business. Adenrele Niyi, Chief Experience Officer, (CXO), AFRIMA, said the partnership with bridgeAfric on the event underlined the AFRIMA institution's commitment to empowering Africa's creative industry. "As AFRIMA, part of our mission is building capacity and fostering cross-border collaborations by empowering Africa's creative industry and by providing platforms for artists to collaborate, grow, and break boundaries. Partnering with bridgeAfric for the Showbiz101 Global Workshop&Music Creation Camp is a no-brainer. This initiative is about more than just music; it's about equipping young creatives with the tools, knowledge, and global connections they need to thrive in the industry,' Niyi said. The AFRIMA CXO added that the event aligns with AFRIMA's seven pillars, which include the Music Awards, Music Festivals, AFRIMA Creative Academy, Talent Discovery and Promotions, Music Business Hub, Advocacy, and Advisory&Policy Debates. "Our goal is to reinforce Africa's position as a moving powerhouse on the global music scene—one hit, one artist, one opportunity at a time and we are excited to be at the fore front of driving this initiative," she concluded. According to Victoria Nkong, President of bridgeAfric who is also an Associate Producer for AFRIMA, the workshop aims to support the future of Africa's creative industry by focusing on key areas including the need to educate and train young talents, saying, "We believe learning is essential to solving problems in the entertainment industry. This workshop will equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed." She said the event will feature performances, training sessions, and recording opportunities for artists. Nkong added that the five-day event will bring top musicians together for a three-day global music camp, where they will create songs as a team. "By the end of the camp, we will have a global EP featuring top African stars from different countries," she said. "Another goal of the workshop is to help artists reach new audiences by connecting them with international music executives. This will open doors for them to promote their music in different parts of the world." Some of the top artists who have confirmed their participation in the conference and recording camp are Juma Jux from Tanzania, Nadia Nakai from South Africa and DJ Neptune from Nigeria. Ivory Coast will be well represented by global music superstars like the AFRIMA Award winner Didi B, Himra, Suspect 95, Kikimoteleba, Goulam, and Gabin Bao. Other notable participants include Bizzle Osikoya, Co-founder of The Plug Entertainment, and Sesan Adeniji, General Manager of Vybz FM. From Algeria, DJ MohGreen will bring his expertise, while Eric Bellamy from Live Nation Paris, France will contribute his knowledge of the global music industry. Sonia Aimy from Canada and Wendy Harawa from Malawi are also expected. In addition to the workshop and music camp, Nkong said a welcome Industry party is scheduled for Wednesday to officially receive the participants. She added that registration is free for music producers, songwriters, and artists who want to learn, network, and advance their music careers. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
