9th AFRIMA unites artistes as delegates from 48 countries celebrate music excellence
The 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) once again demonstrated why it is considered Africa’s premier music awards platform, bringing together artistes, delegates, and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries to celebrate the continent’s rich and diverse musical talent.
Held from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos, the week-long event featured a vibrant atmosphere of unity, colour, and creativity, with winners emerging from West, East, North, Central, and Southern Africa, as well as the diaspora.
“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,” said AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, Mike Dada. “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. Artistes from South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Algeria, and Ethiopia led in the major categories.”
Côte d’Ivoire
Milo – Male African Inspirational
Morijah – Female African Inspirational
Didi B – Best African Lyricist or Rapper
Team Paiya – Best African Duo, Group, or Band
Ethiopia
Haddinqo – Best African Jazz
Weeha – Best African Dance/Choreography
Veronica Adane – Best African Traditional
Guinea
Manamba Kanté – Best African Pop
Takana Zion – Best African Reggae, Ragga & Dancehall
Benin
Axel Merryl – Best African Contemporary
Senegal
Bakhaw Dioum – Songwriter of the Year
Algeria
DJ Moh Green – Best African DJ
Izlan – Best African Rock
Rwanda
Element Eleéh – Producer of the Year
Mugisha Fred Robinson – Producer of the Year
East Africa
Jux (Tanzania) – Best Male Artiste
Fole X – Best African Video of the Year for “Ololufe”
Denise (Madagascar) – Best Female Artiste
Northern Africa
Adviser (Mauritania) – Winner
Sherine (Tunisia) – Winner
Southern Africa
Yo Maps (Zambia) – Winner
Nontokozo Mkhize (South Africa) – Winner
Ciza (South Africa) – Winner
Central Africa
Singuila (Republic of Congo) – Winner
Cindy Le Cœur (DRC) – Winner
Western Africa
Wendy Shay (Ghana) – Best Female Artiste
The celebrations began with a Welcome Soiree at the residence of the Deputy British High Commissioner on January 7, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit at Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites. On January 9, the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall hosted over 25 A-list artistes performing for more than 20,000 attendees in a high-octane concert.
The grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre saw thousands gather to witness a dazzling ceremony, where artistes, producers, video and sound directors, and other creatives were honoured with the prestigious 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.
