The organizers of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have announced the postponement of the 9th edition of the prestigious continental event to January 2026, citing the need for improved logistics, broader international participation, and alignment with global music industry schedules.
In an official statement released on Friday, the AFRIMA International Committee, in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC), said the decision to shift the event from November 2025 to January 2026 was made to ensure a “more inclusive, world-class celebration of African music and culture.”
According to the statement, the rescheduled edition will allow for the inclusion of additional nominees and performances from across Africa and the diaspora, enhancing the event’s global visibility.
“The decision to move the 9th AFRIMA to January 2026 was carefully considered to give room for better coordination and participation from artists, stakeholders, and partners across the continent,” the organizers explained. “We want to deliver an unforgettable experience that reflects the excellence, diversity, and creativity of African music.”
The Executive Producer of AFRIMA, Mike Dada, emphasized that the postponement was not a setback but a strategic adjustment aimed at ensuring that the event maintains its status as Africa’s biggest and most credible music award ceremony.
“We remain committed to celebrating African music on a global stage,” Dada said. “AFRIMA has grown beyond being just an awards show it is now a unifying platform that amplifies African voices and strengthens our cultural identity worldwide.”
He added that the new schedule would provide enough time to finalize partnerships with key sponsors, improve logistics for international attendees, and ensure adequate safety and hospitality arrangements for guests expected from over 100 countries.
AFRIMA, which debuted in 2014, has since evolved into a continental showcase that honors exceptional talents and contributions in various music genres, from Afrobeats and Amapiano to traditional African sounds. Previous editions have featured performances by global stars such as Burna Boy, Davido, Angelique Kidjo, Tiwa Savage, and Diamond Platnumz.
The awards ceremony is renowned for its pan-African voting process, which allows fans, industry stakeholders, and judges from across the world to vote for their favorite artists through an open, digital system.
This year’s nominees representing more than 40 African countries will retain their eligibility for the rescheduled 2026 edition, ensuring no loss of recognition or opportunity for shortlisted acts.
Reactions have been mixed but largely supportive. Several African music industry executives and artists have praised the decision, describing it as a move that prioritizes quality and inclusivity.
South African music executive Lebo Maseko commented, “AFRIMA has always stood for excellence, and if this change means we’ll get a better, more representative event, then it’s worth the wait.”
Nigerian singer Ayra Starr, a previous nominee, shared a similar sentiment, saying that AFRIMA “has become the pride of African artists,” and that “extra preparation time will only make it grander.”
As AFRIMA prepares for its 9th edition in January 2026, expectations are high for a more dynamic and globally impactful event that will continue to showcase the richness of African music and creativity to the world. The postponement, though temporary, reflects AFRIMA’s growing ambition to position African artistry at the heart of global entertainment.
