By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
The 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has solidified its position as Africa’s premier music awards platform, bringing together artistes, delegates, and industry stakeholders from 48 African countries in Lagos, Nigeria.
The event was held from January 7 to 11, 2026, and it was a vibrant celebration of Africa’s rich musical diversity, with winners from various regions, including West, East, North, Central, Southern Africa, and the diaspora.
AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mr. Mike Dada, spoke on the success of the event in bringing together Africa. He said, “AFRIMA is not just about giving awards. It is about bringing Africa together under one roof to celebrate our stories, culture, and future through music.” He also said, “I am happy that we had delegates from at least 48 countries, including 1,216 artistes, delegates, and production team members. Looking at the winners, all regions of Africa are represented, showing the growth of our music industry.”
Multiple wins were recorded in various categories, with Cote d’Ivoire’s Milo and Morijah taking home awards in the African Inspirational categories, Didi B winning Best African Lyricist or Rapper, and Team Paiya claiming Best African Duo, Group or Band. Ethiopia’s Haddinqo won Best African Jazz, Weeha took Best African Dance/Choreography, and Veronica Adane won Best African Traditional.
Other notable winners included Guinea’s Manamba Kanté (Best African Pop) and Takana Zion (Best African Reggae, Ragga & Dancehall), Benin’s Axel Merryl (Best African Contemporary), and Senegal’s Bakhaw Dioum (Songwriter of the Year). Algeria’s DJ Moh Green and Izlan won Best African DJ and Best African Rock, respectively, while Rwanda’s Element Eleéh and Mugisha Fred Robinson took home Producer of the Year.
In East Africa, Tanzania’s Jux won Best Male Artiste, and Fole X claimed Best African Video of the Year for “Ololufe”. Madagascar’s Denise won Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa. Northern Africa’s winners included Mauritania’s Adviser and Egypt’s Sherine, while Southern Africa celebrated Zambia’s Yo Maps, South Africa’s Nontokozo Mkhize, and Ciza.
The event started with a Welcome Soiree at the British High Commissioner’s residence on January 7, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit at Eko Convention Centre. The AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall on January 9 drew over 20,000 people, featuring top artistes. The grand finale took place at the Eko Convention Centre, where winners received the prestigious 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.
