I n an exciting move for Africa’s creative industries, the African Union (AU) and the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have solidified their partnership with a fresh agreement to promote Africa’s music and cultural landscape on the global stage.
The formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed earlier in January, building on a relationship that has existed since 2014 when AFRIMA held its inaugural awards. This agreement reaffirms the commitment both organizations have towards amplifying Africa’s musical influence and advancing the AU’s cultural agenda.
Ambassador Minata Cessouma, the AU’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, emphasized the significance of the deal. According to Cessouma, this new chapter in their collaboration will help African music thrive, contribute to community well-being, and align with the broader development goals of the continent.
“This agreement signifies a new chapter in our collaboration, ensuring that African music continues to flourish, uplift communities, and contribute to the well-being of artists and the continent’s development agenda,” she noted.
The partnership is seen as a major step forward for Africa’s music sector, with the potential to unlock numerous opportunities for the continent’s artists. Mike Dada, AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, highlighted the importance of the MoU, describing it as a "significant milestone" for African music. He also pointed out that the agreement will help elevate African culture and music internationally.
"This partnership represents a significant milestone and a great step forward in our shared mission to elevate African music and culture on the global stage," Dada said.
The agreement is part of the broader efforts to support Africa’s cultural and creative industries, including the implementation of the Revised AU Plan of Action on Cultural and Creative Industries. In addition, both organizations previously collaborated on the “Stronger Together” online concert for the COVID-19 Response Fund in 2020, showcasing their commitment to using music as a tool for social cohesion and economic growth.
By focusing on initiatives like these, AU and AFRIMA are working toward the realization of the AU's Agenda 2063, a blueprint for Africa's development over the next 50 years.
With this partnership in place, it’s clear that Africa’s music scene is set for even greater recognition globally. Whether it’s Afrobeat or hip-hop, the continent’s diverse and vibrant music culture is poised to capture the attention of listeners around the world – and the AU and AFRIMA are right at the heart of it all.
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