Nigerian music legend, 2Baba Idibia, will lead an impressive lineup of African artists and global music industry leaders at the upcoming AFRIMA 2025 Music Conference in Ethiopia’s capital city.
The two-day event, organised by the African Union Commission (AUC) and the International Committee of the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), will take place at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa from 13 to 14 May 2025. A key highlight will be the official unveiling of the AFRIMA 2025 Calendar and Host City.
Joining 2Baba on the distinguished panel are several prominent African music stars, including South African sensation Makhadzi, Kenyan artist Nikita Kering, Ugandan multi-award winner Eddy Kenzo, and Ghanaian reggae/ragga star Stonebwoy. Industry executives participating include Bien Mekonnen (Founder and CEO of Ethiopia’s Bana Records), Mike Strano (AFRIMA’s Regional Director and CEO of Yekwatu), and Leo Fakhrul (Founder and Managing Director of UK-based Mamba Sounds).
“We are bringing Africa’s most respected voices in music and key industry leaders to Ethiopia because this is a crucial moment for the continent’s creative industry,” said Eyob Alemayehu, AFRIMA’s Country Director in Ethiopia. “Their insights and experiences are vital as we discuss the future of African music and explore strategies to grow a sustainable creative economy.”
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The first day will feature the Music Conference themed “Music Beyond Borders,” where experts will address important topics including music industry policies, international collaborations, and strategies to boost Africa’s creative sector. The day’s agenda includes two panel sessions: “Borderless Beats: The Future of African Music in a Globalised World” and “Unlocking and Monetising Africa’s Music Economy.”
Following the conference, officials will announce the winning host city for AFRIMA 2025 and unveil the official theme and calendar of events. The day will conclude with the AFRIMA Dinner & Social Networking Event, bringing together AFRIMA and AU officials, artists, and industry stakeholders.
On the second day, delegates will explore Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage through a city tour of historical landmarks, heritage sites, museums, and artistic hubs.
The annual AFRIMA awards are built on seven pillars: Music Awards, Music Festival, AFRIMA Kreative Academy, Talent Discovery and Promotion, Africa Music Business Hub, Policy Debate and Advisory, and Advocacy.
“The unveiling of the AFRIMA 2025 Calendar and Host City is not just the beginning of another award season, it is a strong statement that Africa’s creative industry is moving forward,” Alemayehu emphasised. “This moment starts the journey to another exciting edition in 2025, where the continent and the diaspora will come together to celebrate our music and culture.”
