Africa under one roof: 48 countries converge in Lagos as 9th AFRIMA Celebrates Continental Music Excellence

The 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has concluded in Lagos, reaffirming its status as the continent’s premier music platform. Between January 7 and 11, 2026, the city became the heartbeat of African culture, hosting over 1,200 artistes and delegates from 48 countries under the theme of unity and creative growth. 

The grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre saw the presentation of the iconic 23.9-carat gold-plated trophies to winners spanning the five regions of Africa and the diaspora.

The 9th edition was marked by a diverse distribution of awards, ensuring every corner of the continent was represented on the podium includes the Côte d’Ivoire which dominated with multiple wins, including Didi B (Best Lyricist/Rapper) and Team Paiya (Best Group). Ghana’s Wendy Shay secured Best Female Artiste in Western Africa, while Guinea celebrated Manamba Kanté (Pop) and Takana Zion (Reggae).

In East Africa, Jux (Tanzania) and Denise (Madagascar) took home the Best Male and Female regional honors, respectively, while Ethiopia swept the Jazz and Traditional categories.

While in Southern Africa, Yo Maps (Zambia) and Ciza (South Africa) were among the top celebrants as well as in North and Central Africa where winners emerged from Mauritania, Tunisia, Algeria, Republic of Congo, and the DRC, with Cindy Le Cœur and Singuila leading the charge for Central Africa.

AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mr. Mike Dada, expressed immense satisfaction with the attendance and the spirit of the event.

"AFRIMA is about bringing Africa together under one roof to celebrate our stories and future through music. With 1,216 artistes and production members involved, the widespread regional representation shows the incredible growth of our industry." Mike Dada.

The awards were preceded by a series of high-impact industry events included welcome Soiree hosted at the residence of the Deputy British High Commissioner, Africa Music Business Summit, a strategic gathering of stakeholders to discuss the digital economy of African music and AFRIMA Music Village where a high-octane concert at Ikeja City Mall that saw over 20,000 fans witness performances by 25 A-list artistes.