Manny Ita –
Artists, music executives, cultural policymakers, and industry stakeholders from across Africa are converging in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from February 14 to 16, 2026, for the 10th anniversary parley of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), marking a key milestone as preparations intensify for the 2026 awards season.
Organizers said the three-day gathering is designed to review progress in the African music industry, strengthen continental collaboration, and outline plans for the forthcoming awards ceremony scheduled for later in the year. Participants are engaging in panel discussions, policy dialogues, and networking sessions aimed at expanding the global reach of African music and addressing structural challenges within the sector.
In a statement, AFRIMA officials described the parley as “a strategic platform for shaping the future of African music,” emphasizing the need for stronger partnerships among governments, private sector players, and creative talents. “This 10th edition represents a decade of celebrating African excellence and building bridges across the continent’s diverse music ecosystem,” an organizer said.
Stakeholders are also discussing issues such as copyright protection, digital distribution, talent development, and the economic potential of the creative sector. Industry leaders noted that African music continues to gain international prominence, driven largely by streaming platforms and cross-border collaborations. “African music is no longer emerging — it is leading conversations globally,” a participating executive remarked.
Officials from several African governments are attending the parley, reflecting growing recognition of the creative economy as a driver of jobs, tourism, and cultural diplomacy. Observers say hosting the event in Abidjan underscores Côte d’Ivoire’s rising status as a cultural hub in West Africa.
The meetings are expected to conclude on February 16, 2026, with announcements outlining timelines, host arrangements, and key activities leading up to the 2026 AFRIMA Awards, widely regarded as one of the continent’s most prestigious music honors. Organizers expressed confidence that the anniversary edition would “set new standards for excellence and continental unity through music.”
