Open call: Urban Music People Awards 2025 in Malawi

The call is also open to African artists, who should submit entries in the following categories African Artist of the Year, SADC Regional Artist of the Year, Best West African Act, Best East African Act, Best North African Act and Best New African Act.

Submissions can be made online here before 15 September. The selection process will combine expert panels, public voting, and data-driven analysis to ensure a fair, transparent, and inclusive outcome. The UMP Awards 2025 will serve as the grand finale of the UMP Festival, a week-long celebration of music, art, fashion, film, and culture happening in Cape Maclear, Malawi, from 21 to 27 October.

“The UMP Awards are a celebration of talent, passion, and creativity,” UMP Festival CEO Aisha De Silva said. “This year, we’re elevating the experience to new heights, ensuring artists receive the recognition they deserve while bringing fans closer to the music they love.”

Below is the full list of categories:

Core Categories

• ⁠Artist of the Year (Male)
• Artist of the Year (Female)
• Song of the Year
• Album/EP of The Year
• ⁠Best New Artist (Male)
• ⁠Best New Artist (Female)
• Producer of the Year
• Best Gospel Act

Genre-Specific Categories

• Best Hip Hop/Rap Act
• Best Amapiano Act
• Best Reggae/Dancehall Act
• Best Afrobeat/Fuzion Act
• ⁠Best Traditional/Indigenous Music Act

Performance and Visual Excellence

• Best Collaboration
• ⁠Best Music Video
• Best Music Video Director
• ⁠Best Live Act
• Best Duo or Group

African/Regional/International Categories

• African Artist of the Year
• SADC Regional Artist of the Year
• Best West African Act
• Best East African Act
• Best North African Act
• Best New African Act
• Global Impact Award (For Malawian Artist Excelling internationally)

Special Recognitions

• ⁠Lifetime Achievement Award
• ⁠Humanitarian Award (Recognising Artists with Significant: Community impact)
• ⁠Humanitarian Award (Recognising Artists with Significant Community impact)
• Best Band
• Best Fans