SA: Music Imbizo 2026 opens exhibition applications, competition entries

The annual event brings together artists, managers, record labels, publishers, collecting societies, technology companies, policymakers, brands and other stakeholders involved in the music industry. The conference combines professional networking, exhibitions, business development opportunities and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at addressing issues affecting the African music sector.

Organisers said the daytime programme will focus on industry engagement, allowing delegates to connect with potential partners, explore new markets and learn about developments within the music business. Alongside the conference activities, a series of live performances, showcases and cultural events will take place across Durban during the week.

Exhibition applications open

Businesses, organisations and institutions have been invited to apply for exhibition space at the event.

The exhibition will provide direct access to artists, entrepreneurs, service providers, students, policymakers and industry professionals. Organisations operating in sectors such as music, film, technology, education, tourism, finance, intellectual property, media and the broader creative economy are eligible to participate.

Information on exhibition packages and applications is available through The Music Imbizo website.

Competitions announced

Applications are currently open for two competitions that form part of the 2026 programme:

The Moot Court Competition, which focuses on legal, contractual and intellectual property issues affecting the music industry.

The Beat Battle, a competition for emerging and established music producers.

Organisers have also announced that the Film Scoring Competition will open on 22 June. Participants will be required to compose an original score for a selected film, highlighting the role of music and sound in visual storytelling.

Competition guidelines, entry requirements and submission deadlines will be published on the event's website.

Showcase artists selected

A total of 24 musicians have been selected for the Music Imbizo 2026 showcase programme.

The line-up includes South African artist Dr Buselaphi, Umzulu Phaqa, Namibian rapper Lioness, Kenyan act ¡AC!, Zimbabwean musician Agga Nyabinde and Ugandan artist Aliddeki Brian, among others.

The showcase programme is designed to provide performers with exposure to music industry professionals, festival organisers, media representatives and potential collaborators.

Film festival programme

The Music Imbizo Film Festival will run alongside the conference, featuring films that explore music, culture, identity and creativity.

The programme includes the South African documentary SquashBox, the music-focused documentary AFROZIL, Brazilian film Free on Bail and the short film Where To From Here?

According to organisers, the film festival aims to create a platform for stories about musicians, cultural communities and the wider systems that support the music industry.

The complete film programme and screening schedule will be announced through the festival's official channels.