South Africa eyes hosting rights for 2025-2026 AFRIMA as AU extends invitation

South Africa may soon host the next two editions of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) after receiving a formal invitation from the African Union (AU) to take up hosting rights for the 2025 and 2026 events.

This invitation was detailed in a letter, reference number HHS/CUL/16/170.23, signed by Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, AU Commission’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development.

The Republic of Nigeria also received a similar invitation, sparking excitement and discussion within the African music community as both nations consider the prestigious opportunity.

The AU’s invitation aligns with its strategic goals under Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry, aiming to promote social integration and showcase Africa’s rich cultural heritage. AFRIMA serves as a global platform to celebrate and develop Africa’s diverse musical talents, offering significant opportunities for the host country.

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Since 2014, AFRIMA has partnered with the AU to promote African music globally, focusing on integration, economic prosperity, and world peace. The event, which includes music awards, festivals, talent discovery, and advocacy, is broadcast live to over 84 countries, attracting a vast global audience.

The previous edition of AFRIMA was successfully hosted in Dakar, Senegal, and the hosting rights are usually granted to a country that demonstrates the capability and determination to meet the event’s requirements.

AFRIMA’s Country Director for South Africa, Lekunutu Seboko, confirmed the receipt of the invitation and expressed the country’s eagerness to host the event. He highlighted South Africa’s rich musical heritage and infrastructural capabilities as key strengths in their potential bid.

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“South Africa has been a leader in pushing African music to global audiences, and hosting AFRIMA would solidify our influence,” Seboko stated. “Our state-of-the-art venues, excellent transportation networks, and diverse cultural landscape make us confident in delivering an exceptional AFRIMA experience.”

Matlou Tsotetsi, AFRIMA’s Director of Sponsorship and Partnership, emphasized the economic benefits that South Africa could gain from hosting the event, including boosts to tourism, the hospitality industry, and global attention.

Angela Martins, Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division at the AU Commission, confirmed the invitation extended to both South Africa and Nigeria. She highlighted AFRIMA’s potential to promote cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across Africa. Martins encouraged both countries to seize the opportunity, emphasizing the AU’s commitment to supporting the successful hosting of the event.

Meanwhile, Morocco has also shown interest in discussing the possibility of hosting AFRIMA alongside the Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled for December 2025 to January 2026, adding further competition to the bidding process.