Music In Africa Foundation’s AGM unites industry players in Ethiopia

The programme started at the Goethe-Institut on 10 November with the Foundation’s AGM, a formal meeting where the work of MIAF in its previous fiscal year (July 2015 to June 2016) was discussed. Presentations at this meeting reflected the strong growth that MIAF experienced in the year, particularly in implementing offline projects for music professionals and in developing its portal (www.musicinafrica.net). The report is also available online here.

A highlight was the election of MIAF’s new Management Board, which will, for the first time, be headed by a woman, Ms. Aisha Deme from Senegal. Ms Deme succeeds Dr. Ribio Nzeza Bunketi Buse from DRC as Chairperson. The board also welcomed new members: Mr. Faisal Kiwewa from Uganda and Mr. Ade Bantu from Nigeria. See the new Board here.

Panel discussions

The AGM Plus programme was opened by the legendary Ethiopian musician, Dr. Mulatu Astatke, who delivered an inspiring keynote speech on 11 November. Dr Astatke’s speech challenged music professionals in Africa to acknowledge the roots of indigenous African music and to turn opportunities created by platforms such MIAF into “tangible progress” for musicians. Dr. Mulatu also touched on challenges facing music professionals in Africa today, such as limited mobility and  lack of financial support, unity and education.

Four panel discussions were held over the two days, namely, Touring Circuits In Africa - Opportunities & Realities; Getting To Know Ethiopia's Music Scene; The African Music Sector - Current Trends and Potential; and How To Break Into The International Music Scene.

The enthusiasm of the participants highlighted the need to recognise the potential of the continent and the role of the Music In Africa Foundation. The success of the conference was also confirmed by both the quality and diversity of participants, who included musicians, festival promoters, music educators, music critics, record label owners and consultants from over 15 countries. A total of 18 speakers participated in the panel discussions.

The AGM Plus programme also featured the first African screening of the successful documentary film, Mali Blues on 10 November. Participants also got a chance to see a new version of the Music In Africa website, which is being finalised for launch before the end of the year.

“On behalf on the Board, I would like to thank everyone who participated in this constructive and excellent programme. I am deeply convinced that great things will continue to come out of this meeting of so many quality people and I look very much forward to the next edition,” said Ms. Deme after the event.

Live performances

Evening concerts showcased six top Ethiopian acts, namely, Henok and the Mehari Brothers, Bruktawit "Betty G" Getahun, Jano Band, Sami Dan, Michael Belayneh and Tsedenia Gebremarkos, as well as the Kenyan benga singer Winyo. Jano Band’s scintillating performance on the 11th of November was one of the highlights of the programme. At least 2000 music lovers attended the showcases, which were held at the VillaVerde in the heart of Addis Ababa.