ARMC announces pre-event roadshows in Nairobi, Durban ahead of 2025 edition

30 Jan 2025 - 12:12

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

The Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) has announced its partnership with AlphaTheta for a series of dynamic pre-event roadshows in Nairobi, Kenya and Durban, South Africa leading up to ARMC 2025, set to take place in Johannesburg on 28 and 29 May.

South African DJ Fundi Mbambani (pictured) will lead the Durban leg of the roadshow, which will focus on empowering independent artists.

These events will feature interactive DJ workshops for beginners and intermediate-level DJs, led by industry professionals, as well as panel discussions designed to connect, educate, and inspire music professionals.

This initiative underscores ARMC and AlphaTheta’s shared commitment to fostering innovation in Africa’s music industry and supporting the next generation of talent.

Roadshow itinerary

Nairobi

The programme features DJ workshops led by Tina Ardor, celebrated for her Afro-fusion sound, and DJ Shock, a pioneer in East African electronic music. Industry leaders, including ARMC founder Sarah Jane Nicholson, will also participate in panel discussions covering global music trends and opportunities.

Dates: 18 to 21 February 2025
Location: Kilele Summit, The Mall Westlands, The Mist, Nairobi
Workshop details: 19 February, 12pm & 3pm (No ticket needed)
Panel programme:
- Independent label mixer – 18 February at 5pm (Ticket needed).
- Signal Flow 2.0: International Networks – 20 February at 10am (Ticket needed).

Register for the workshop here.

Durban

In partnership with KwaZulu-Natal United Music Industry Association (KUMISA), this leg of the roadshow will focus on empowering independent artists through DJ workshops led by Fundi Mbambani (Bridges for Music Ambassador) and insightful panels on inclusive industry practices and monetisation strategies.

Dates: 22 to 23 March.
Location: KUMISA Office, 114 Bulwer Road, Glenwood, Durban.
Workshop details: 22 and 23 March at 10am.
Panel Discussions:
- Making Music Accessible: Inclusive Practices in the Industry – 22 March at 1pm.
- Maximising Revenue & Building a Standout Brand in the Digital Era – 23 March at 1pm.

Register for the workshop here.

For the third consecutive year, ARMC and AlphaTheta will present DJ Workshop series at ARMC 2025. This year’s lineup includes Lelowhatsgood, Ms Party and Rarri.

“I’m excited to pass down the skills I’ve learned and contribute to the growth of the next generation of DJs,” Lelowhatsgood said. “Sharing knowledge strengthens the music community and ensures excellence is upheld.”

Ms Party said: “So you’ve mastered the basics, now what? This intermediate class will help you develop your unique DJ style. In an industry where skills break down barriers, I want to help aspiring DJs unlock their full potential.”

Find more about ARMC here.