Lagos or Gauteng? Africa awaits as AU prepares to announce 2025 AFRIMA host city

The excitement is palpable across the continent as the African Union Commission (AUC) and the International Committee of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) gear up to reveal the host city for the 2025 edition of the prestigious awards.

The official announcement will be made on May 13, 2025, at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

After a successful 2023 edition in Dakar, Senegal, two vibrant African powerhouses—Lagos State in Nigeria and Gauteng Province in South Africa—are now locked in a head-to-head contest to secure the hosting rights for the next AFRIMA. Both cities boast rich musical legacies, world-class infrastructure, and a proven track record in staging major international events. Yet, only one will ultimately win the honor.

Lagos: The Pulse of Afrobeats and Creative Excellence

In the race for 2025, Lagos stands tall as the dynamic heartbeat of the Afrobeats revolution that has captivated the globe. Homegrown global icons like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Davido, Femi Kuti, Ayra Starr, and Rema trace their roots to this sprawling metropolis—a city where music is more than a passion, it’s a way of life.

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Under the leadership of successive administrations, including the incumbent Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos has transformed into a megacity of ambition and innovation. Investments in infrastructure—such as the Lagos Blue Line and Red Line metro projects, modern ferry terminals, enhanced security networks, and a real estate boom—have positioned the city as a model for urban renewal in Africa.

Lagos is no stranger to hosting mega events. Past editions of AFRIMA, international sporting tournaments, major concerts, and business summits have all thrived in the city’s energetic environment.

With an extensive array of luxury hotels, vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and a welcoming spirit, Lagos offers the perfect stage for AFRIMA 2025 to shine brighter than ever.

Gauteng: The Soul of Amapiano and Cultural Pride

Meanwhile, Gauteng—the bustling economic engine of South Africa—presents a compelling case rooted in deep cultural pride and musical innovation. From the soulful strains of Kwaito to the global phenomenon of Amapiano, Gauteng’s music scene has long been a force in shaping African soundscapes.

Johannesburg, Pretoria, Sandton, and Soweto form a cultural corridor where music is an indelible part of everyday life. Gauteng’s track record as a host is equally impressive: from the 2010 FIFA World Cup to the South African Music Awards (SAMA), the province has consistently showcased its ability to stage world-class events with precision and style.

Premier Panyaza Lesufi has thrown his full support behind Gauteng’s bid, highlighting the province’s creative vibrancy, hospitality, and infrastructure as key advantages.

According to Adenrele Niyi, AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer (CXO), the decision extends beyond entertainment.

“Hosting AFRIMA is about driving economic impact, boosting tourism, and creating sustainable opportunities for the creative industry,” she said.

“We expect over 400 million people worldwide to tune in. Hosting the event means full hotels, bustling local businesses, busy restaurants, and immense global media exposure for the city.”

READ ALSO: AFRIMA partners with AU to boost creative economy, unveils cultural growth framework

The host city will not only stage the awards ceremony but will also organize side events including: The African Music Business Summit; School outreach programs promoting skill acquisition; The colorful AFRIMA Music Village festival.

All of these contribute to a lasting cultural and economic legacy for the host country.

Past host nations like Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal have reaped significant benefits from staging AFRIMA, with boosts in tourism, youth engagement, and international investment following each event.

Both Lagos and Gauteng bring formidable strengths to the table. Lagos dazzles with its youthful energy, Afrobeats dominance, and transformative urban developments. Gauteng counters with its rich musical heritage, sophisticated venues, and global hosting pedigree.

As Africa and the world await the African Union’s announcement, one thing is clear: wherever AFRIMA 2025 lands, it will be a historic celebration of African music, talent, and unity.

The countdown to May 13 has begun—and Africa is watching.