2Baba, Makhadzi, Stonebwoy to headline AFRIMA 2025 launch in Ethiopia

The event, organised by the African Union Commission (AUC) in collaboration with the International Committee of the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), will unveil the official AFRIMA 2025 calendar and announce the host city for the prestigious awards.

Joining 2Baba on the conference panels are acclaimed artists and industry figures, including Makhadzi (South Africa), Nikita Kering (Kenya), Eddy Kenzo (Uganda), Stonebwoy (Ghana), Ethiopian producer and Bana Records CEO Bien Mekonnen, AFRIMA regional director Mike Strano, and UK-based Mamba Sounds founder Leo Fakhrul.

The conference will centre on forward-looking discussions around the evolution of African music, the continent’s creative economy, and opportunities for global collaboration. AFRIMA’s Ethiopia country director, Eyob Alemayehu, said anticipation is building ahead of the host city announcement, which will be accompanied by a formal certificate presentation.

“This is a pivotal moment for Africa’s creative industry,” Alemayehu said. “We are bringing together some of the continent’s most respected voices to dissect the current landscape and chart a sustainable path forward for African music.”

The first day’s proceedings will begin with a high-level music conference under the theme Music Beyond Borders, exploring the global resonance of African sounds and the potential of the continent’s creative industries. Key sessions include Borderless Beats: The Future of African Music in a Globalised World and Unlocking and Monetising Africa’s Music Economy, which will feature in-depth discussions on policy development, international partnerships, and economic growth within Africa’s music sector.

The first day will conclude with the AFRIMA Dinner & Social Networking Event, an exclusive evening bringing together AU officials, high-profile artists, and key industry stakeholders to foster collaboration and celebrate Africa’s diverse musical heritage.

On the second day, delegates will embark on a cultural tour of Addis Ababa, visiting historic landmarks, museums, and art centres for an immersive experience of Ethiopia’s rich heritage.

Alemayehu added: “The unveiling of the AFRIMA 2025 Calendar and Host City is more than just the beginning of another award cycle. It signals Africa’s unwavering commitment to elevating its creative industries and uniting the continent and diaspora in a shared celebration of music and culture.”