African Union Writes Nigeria, South Africa On AFRIMA Hosting Rights

The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next two editions of the prestigious annual All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA.

In a letter signed by the AUC’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development,  Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligned with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.

The AU described AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa’s diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country.

“Since 2014, the African Union has been partnering and working successfully with AFRIMA to develop, celebrate and promote African music globally for the purpose of integration/inclusivity, economic prosperity and world peace via its seven core pillars: Music Awards, Music Festivals; AFRIMA creative Academy; Talent Discovery and Promotions; Music Business Hub; Advocacy; Advisory and Policy Debates,” the letter said.

A letter received by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa,  on behalf of the Nigerian government, said, “Nigeria, as a beacon in African music with huge young population, should it accept to host AFRIMA, stands a promising chance in elevating the country’s positive global presence, bolstering artistic, tourism and economic growth, fostering cultural exchange and job creation, and reinforcing a positive perception of our continent’s rich cultural heritage on a global scale.”

The last edition of AFRIMA was hosted and partnered by the government of the Republic of Senegal in the city of Dakar. The hosting rights of AFRIMA are usually bestowed on a country that shows capacity and commitment to meet up with the requirement and conditions.

The Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins confirmed the invitation and request to bid for the hosting rights extended to the two countries.