NEFCISA
NEFCISA

The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) is proud to announce its partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) as a Strategic Implementing Partner (SIP) for its Social Employment Fund (SEF). Through this collaboration, MIAF is launching a new national programme designed to create jobs, address skills gaps, and strengthen South Africa’s creative industries — in line with the SEF’s overarching goal to generate work for the common good and build community value through employment, social contribution, and inclusive economic participation. Operating under the banner NEFCISA (National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa), the initiative will recruit and train participants, match them with host organisations, and place a minimum of 1 000 workers across the country. Key Objectives: Support employment and entrepreneurship in the creative industries. Offer skills development and training programmes. Foster partnerships between public and private creative sectors. Promote South African creativity at both provincial and national levels Foster community development through social contribution.

ACCES
ACCES

ACCES has stamped its authority as Africa’s leading music trade event. At the 2019 edition in Accra, the conference brought together more than 1 200 delegates from about 50 countries on the continent and beyond. The conference also hosted 76 showcasing artists from Africa and the diaspora, who got to perform for an influential audience at two top live venues in the Ghanaian capital. Apart from live showcases, the event features panel discussions, presentations, exhibitions, pitch sessions, Q&A sessions with prominent musicians and visits to key music industry hubs in the host city. Many of these activities will be planned for ACCES 2021, with the ACCES team already exploring a tailor-made programme that will cater for the specific needs of the local music industry amid the pandemic. ACCES is organised by the Music In Africa Foundation, a non-profit and pan-African organisation, in partnership with Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut.

Gender@Work
Gender@Work

Music In Africa Gender @ Work is a three-year training programme aimed at upskilling and increasing the participation of female professionals in the African music sector. Launched by the Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) in April 2019, the programme is connected to the MIAF’s ACCES music conference – a pan-African event held in a different African country every year. This connection enables the programme to reach new participants in a different African country every year. The programme marks the beginning of a more concerted effort by the Foundation to support the participation and inclusion of women in all facets of its programmes and the music sector in Africa as a whole. Over the three years, the programme will aim to address gender imbalances in the sector through training, lobbying, facilitating knowledge exchange and dialogues that foster the interest of women. The broader objectives of the programme are to: Provide industry training for women on critical music industry skills, focusing on: Stage management Electronic music production and recording Music business management Technical knowledge Provide an opportunity for both professional and aspiring women to benefit from the Music In Africa network and its broad range of activities in 2019, 2020 and 2021. Provide a solution-based platform in the form of a round table at ACCES with a view to identify challenges, discuss opportunities and lobby for the interests of female practitioners. Offer participants the opportunity to benefit from programmes offered by MIAF’s partners. Increase access to educational materials. Integrate participants in the broader ACCES programme to maximise experience and exposure to the industry. Record and present training materials on the www.musicinafrica.net, including but not limited to tutorials, templates and other best-practice materials. Communicate women-based themes that support the initiatives and messages of the programme. MAIN TRAINING ACTIVITIES Training in first country (Ghana): In the first year, participants will be trained on all aspects of stage management by a team of experienced stage managers from 10 to 17 November 2019. The programme will offer robust classroom training as well as practical, hands-on training in which participants will also be given the opportunity to manage various aspects of the ACCES performance programme. Training in second country: The second training iteration will take place at ACCES 2020 when the programme will diversify its course to include music production lessons and training on other music business topics. A round-table platform will also be introduced to coincide with the ACCES programme. Training in third country: The third training iteration will take place at ACCES 2021 in a different country, offering an advanced course. HOW DO YOU GET INVOLVED?  As a participant, facilitator or trainer: The programme enrolls up to 12 trainees every year. All opportunities are advertised publicly on this website, and will be added to this page. Please keep checking this page for new calls (below under UPDATES & CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES). As a partner Please contact Claire Metais at claire@musicinafrica.net. APPLY The call for applications for 2020 will be announced soon. The Music In Africa Gender @ Work programme is made possible with the support of the Prince Claus Fund, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut.

Sound Connects Fund
Sound Connects Fund

For cultural and creative practitioners and organisations operating in southern Africa, access to funding remains a major challenge. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a massive impact on government policy, spending and the economy in general, and has seen spending on culture being moved further down the list of priorities. Further, the cultural and creative industries repeatedly cite four main areas where investment is needed for growth, which are increased visibility, mobility including access to new markets, finance and support structures.

Instrument Building And Repair Project
Instrument Building And Repair Project

Experience the Vibrations African Instruments Exhibition online in 3D

News

Trace Awards 2025: All the winners

27 Feb 2025 - 07:45

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The winners for the 2025 edition of Trace Awards were announced in Zanzibar, on 26 February. The event brought together the biggest stars in the industry to celebrate the incredible achievements of African artists, producers, and performers. This year’s event highlighted the continent’s growing global influence, with Afrobeats, amapiano, and various African music genres taking centre stage.

Zuchu received a special Zanzibar Award for her outstanding impact on the Tanzanian music scene.

South African duo Titom & Yuppe took home the coveted Song of the Year award for their smash hit ‘Tshwala Bam’, a track that ignited dance floors across the globe. Their infectious beat and energetic rhythm made the song a cultural phenomenon.

Nigerian superstar Rema continued his meteoric rise, winning Album of the Year for Heis, a project that seamlessly blends Afrobeats with international sounds, further cementing his place as one of Africa’s most dynamic artists. He also took home the Best Male Artist award, reaffirming his dominance in the industry.

In the Best Collaboration category, Ivorians Tam Sir & Team Paiya captivated audiences with ‘Coup du Marteau’, an electrifying song that combined rhythm, energy, and masterful production. Meanwhile, the Best Music Video award went to the visionary Meji Alabi for his bold direction of Rema’s ‘DND’, a visually stunning masterpiece.

South African powerhouse Makhadzi once again proved her exceptional stage presence, winning Best Dancer for her dynamic performances. In the DJ category, DJ Moh Green from Algeria was honoured as Best DJ, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s most influential mixmasters.

Tanzanian sensation Diamond Platnumz continued his global domination, winning Best Global African Artist, while Ivorian rapper Didi B stood out in the Best Hip Hop Artist category with his sharp flow and undeniable talent.

Among female artists, South Africa’s Tyla was named Best Female Artist, a well-deserved recognition for her originality and unique style that has captivated listeners worldwide. Nigerian gospel singer Mercy Chinwo took home the Best Gospel Artist award, touching hearts with her soulful and uplifting music.

Regional winners included Ivorian singer Josey, who was crowned Best French-Speaking Artist, and Nigerian sensation Ayra Starr, who continues to dominate West Africa with her powerful voice and hit songs. In Southern Africa, Tyler ICU secured the award, affirming his place as a key player in the region’s music scene.

Kenyan artist Bien was recognised as Best East African Artist, while Chelsea Dinorath of Angola stood out as Best Portuguese-Speaking Artist for her undeniable talent. Representing Tanzania, Nandy was honoured as Best Tanzanian Artist for her remarkable contributions to the industry.

Below is the full list of winners:

Global Awards

Song of the Year

  • Titom & Yuppe – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (South Africa)
  • Tyla – ‘Jump’ (South Africa)
  • Tyler ICU – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
  • Tamsir x Team Paiya – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)
  • Asake & Travis Scott – ‘Active’ (Nigeria)
  • Tems – ‘Love Me Jeje’ (Nigeria)
  • Burna Boy – ‘Higher’ (Nigeria)
  • Rema & Shallipopi – ‘Benin Boys’ (Nigeria)
  • Diamond Platnumz – ‘Komasawa’ (Tanzania)

Album of the Year

  • Rema – Heis (Nigeria)
  • Burna Boy – I Told Them (Nigeria)
  • Asake – Lungu Boy (Nigeria)
  • Josey – Vibration Universelle (Ivory Coast)
  • Amaarae – Fountain Baby (Ghana)
  • King Promise – True To Self (Ghana)
  • Stonebwoy – 5th Dimension (Ghana)
  • Toofan – Stamina (Togo)

Best Collaboration

  • Tamsir & Team Paiya – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)
  • Titom & Yuppe & Burna Boy – ‘Tshwala Bam’ (Remix) (South Africa/Nigeria)
  • Neyna & MC Acondize – ‘Nu Ka Sta Para’ (Cape Verde)
  • Kocee ft. Patoranking – ‘Credit Alert’ (Cameroon/Nigeria)
  • Asake & Wizkid – ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)
  • Rema & Shallipopi – ‘Benin Boys’ (Nigeria)
  • Odumodublvck & Black Sherif – ‘Woto Woto Seasoning’ (Ghana)

Best Music Video

  • Meji Alabi – Rema ‘DND’ (Nigeria)
  • TG Omori – Kizz Daniel & Davido ‘Twe Twe’ (Nigeria)
  • Director Folex – Zuchu feat Innoss’ B ‘Nani’ (Remix) (Tanzania/DRC)
  • Nabil Elderkin – Tyla ‘Jump’ (South Africa)
  • Kmane – Ayra Starr ‘Commas’ (Nigeria)
  • Seoute Emmanuel – Toofan ‘C Pas Normal’ (Togo)
  • Ach’B – Innoss’ B ‘Sete’ (DRC)
  • Edgar Esteves – Asake & Wizkid ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)

Best Dancer

  • Makhadzi (South Africa)
  • Ikorodu Boys (Nigeria)
  • Dancegod Lloyd (Ghana)
  • Incredible Zigi (Ghana)
  • Kamo Mphela (South Africa)
  • Telminho (Angola)
  • Ordinateur (Ivory Coast)
  • Issac Kalonji (Democratic Republic of Congo)

Best DJ

  • DJ Moh Green – ‘Kelele’ (Algeria)
  • Tyler ICU – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
  • Uncle Waffles – ‘Wadibusa’ (South Africa)
  • DJ Tunez – ‘Apala Disco Remix’ (Nigeria)
  • DJ Nelasta – ‘Eros’ (Angola)
  • DJ Spinall ft. Tyla & Omah Lay – ‘One Call’ (Nigeria)
  • DJ Neptune ft. Qing Madi – ‘Honest’ (Nigeria)
  • DJ Maphorisa – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
  • Kabza De Small – ‘Imithandazo’ (South Africa)

Best Hip Hop Artist (sponsored by Hot 97)

  • Didi B (Ivory Coast)
  • Nasty C (South Africa)
  • Odumodublvck (Nigeria)
  • Suspect 95 (Ivory Coast)
  • Sarkodie (Ghana)
  • Young Lunya (Tanzania)
  • Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa)

Pan-African Awards

Best Global African Artist

  • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
  • Tyla (South Africa)
  • Tyler ICU (South Africa)
  • Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)
  • Burna Boy (Nigeria)
  • Asake (Nigeria/USA)
  • Rema (Nigeria)
  • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

Best Male Artist

  • Rema (Nigeria)
  • Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
  • Fally Ipupa (Democratic Republic of Congo)
  • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
  • Asake (Nigeria)
  • Burna Boy (Nigeria)
  • Wizkid (Nigeria)
  • Stonebwoy (Ghana)

Best Female Artist

  • Tyla (South Africa)
  • Makhadzi (South Africa)
  • Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)
  • Josey (Ivory Coast)
  • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
  • Tems (Nigeria)
  • Yemi Alade (Nigeria)

Best Live Performance

  • Fally Ipupa (DRC)
  • Ayra Starr – 21: The World Tour (Nigeria)
  • Burna Boy – I Told Them (Nigeria)
  • Tyla (South Africa)
  • Yemi Alade – African Rebel Tour (Nigeria)
  • Didi B – Mojo Trone Tour (Ivory Coast)
  • Diamond Platnumz – Wasafi Festival (Tanzania)

Best Producer

  • P.Priime – ‘MMS’ (Nigeria)
  • Kelvin Momo – ‘Sewe’ (South Africa)
  • DJ Maphorisa – ‘Mnike’ (South Africa)
  • Tam Sir – ‘Coup du Marteau’ (Ivory Coast)
  • Sarz – ‘Happiness’ (Nigeria)
  • Jae 5 – ‘Perfect Combi’ (Ghana)
  • KDDO – ‘For Certain’ (Party Next Door) (Nigeria)
  • London – ‘Ozeba’ (Nigeria)
  • Kabza De Small – ‘Imithandazo’ (South Africa)

Best Gospel Artist

  • Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)
  • Spirit of Praise 10 (South Africa)
  • KS Bloom (Ivory Coast)
  • Ada Ehi (Nigeria)
  • Bella Kombo (Tanzania)
  • Israël Mbonyi (Rwanda)

Regional Awards

Best Artist Eastern Africa

  • Bien (Kenya)
  • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
  • Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
  • Harmonize (Tanzania)
  • Rophnan (Ethiopia)
  • Marioo (Tanzania)
  • Zuchu (Tanzania)
  • Nandy (Tanzania)

Best Artist (Western Africa Anglophone)

  • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
  • Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)
  • Adekunle Gold (Nigeria)
  • Tems (Nigeria)
  • Chike (Nigeria)
  • Simi (Nigeria)
  • KiDi (Ghana)

Best Artist (Southern Africa)

  • Tyler ICU (South Africa)
  • Titom & Yuppe (South Africa)
  • De Mthuda (South Africa)
  • Inkabi Zezwe (South Africa)
  • Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
  • Tyla (South Africa)
  • Uncle Waffles (South Africa)

Best Artist Francophone Africa

  • Josey (Ivory Coast)
  • Didi B (Ivory Coast)
  • Tidiane Mario (Congo)
  • Gaz Mawete (Democratic Republic of Congo)
  • Wally B. Seck (Senegal)
  • PhillBill (Cameroon)

Best Artist (Lusophone Africa)

  • Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)
  • Calema (São Tomé and Príncipe)
  • Landrick (Angola)
  • Twenty Fingers (Mozambique)
  • Mr. Bow (Mozambique)
  • Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde)

Best Artist (Tanzania)

  • Nandy (Tanzania)
  • Mbosso (Zanzibar)
  • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
  • Zuchu (Zanzibar)
  • Marioo (Tanzania)
  • Alikiba (Tanzania)
  • Jux (Tanzania)
  • Harmonize (Tanzania)

International and Diaspora Awards

Best Artist (Europe)

  • Joe Dwet File (France/Haiti)
  • Central Cee (United Kingdom)
  • Kalash (France/Martinique)
  • Darkoo (United Kingdom)
  • Jungeli (France)
  • Franglish (France)
  • Aya Nakamura (France/Mali)

Best Artist (Brazil)

  • Duquesa (Brazil)
  • Racionais MC’s (Brazil)
  • MC IG (Brazil)
  • Péricles (Brazil)
  • Tasha & Tracie (Brazil)
  • Ludmilla (Brazil)

Best Artist (Caribbean)

  • Lea Churro (Reunion Island)
  • Venssy (French Guiana)
  • Mathieu White (Guadeloupe)
  • Meryl (Martinique)
  • Nesly (French Guiana)
  • Shenseea (Jamaica)
  • Kenny Haiti (Haiti)

Best Artist (Indian Ocean)

  • Barth (Reunion)
  • Goulam (Comoros)
  • PLL (Reunion)
  • Kalipsxau (Reunion)
  • Léa Churros (Reunion)
  • Jamily Jeanne (Mauritius)

Lifetime Achievement Award

  • D’Banj

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