Lagos, Nigeria – A high-level Africa Music Business Summit (AMBS) will convene in Lagos on January 8, 2026, as a pivotal event within the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) festivities. The summit aims to address critical strategies for growing, protecting, and profiting from Africa’s rapidly expanding music industry, bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders including artists, executives, policymakers, and media professionals.
The summit’s theme, “Connect, Build, Own: Monetising Africa’s Music Revolution,” underscores AFRIMA’s commitment to transforming creative output into sustainable economic value. Discussions will delve into crucial areas such as intellectual property ownership, industry infrastructure development, media engagement, and robust financing mechanisms to build a comprehensive music value chain across the continent.
Esteemed figures set to lead these vital conversations include CNN’s Larry Madowo, who will host the summit, and Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Anna Westerholm, who will deliver the keynote address. They will be joined by prominent African music stars and influential industry leaders, underscoring the global significance of the African music scene.
Among the notable participants are chart-topping artists like Stonebwoy from Ghana and Juma Jux from Tanzania, alongside celebrated Nigerian producer and executive ID Cabasa. Their presence highlights the summit’s focus on practical insights from those at the forefront of the industry.
Mike Dada, President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, emphasized the summit’s role in shaping the future of African music. He stated that while African music is a powerful cultural export, talent alone is insufficient. The AMBS is designed to equip creatives and industry players with the knowledge of ownership, structure, and sustainability needed to fully capitalize on their creations.
Further reinforcing the global perspective, executives from Universal Music’s South African and MENA regions, alongside international music rights advisors, will contribute their expertise. Panel discussions will be moderated by experienced professionals from Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Nigeria, ensuring a broad spectrum of regional insights.
Key sessions will explore building creative economy infrastructure for consistent revenue generation, examining the policies and platforms required to translate musical talent into stable income streams. Practical guidance on rights protection, branding, and revenue generation will be a central focus for attendees.
Another significant segment, “Recipe for Global Stardom,” will dissect the elements necessary for African artists to achieve international success. This will encompass talent development, global positioning strategies, touring, music distribution, and fostering long-term, sustainable careers beyond fleeting trends.
The summit will also dedicate a session to the crucial role of media in amplifying African music on the global stage. Discussions will focus on how effective storytelling, increased exposure, and strategic international media partnerships can unlock new markets for African artists.
Financing the burgeoning African music ecosystem will be a key point of discussion during a dedicated fireside chat. This session promises candid conversations on investment models, improving access to capital, and strategies for artists, labels, and entrepreneurs to secure funding for business expansion.
The 9th AFRIMA event, spanning from January 7 to January 11, 2026, includes a Welcome Soiree, the AMBS, a Host City Tour, a Music Village Concert, a Nominees and Industry Party, and culminates in the Red Carpet and Grand Awards Night. The awards ceremony is slated for broadcast to over 84 countries, extending the reach of African music talent worldwide.
