The African Union (AU) and the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have formalised their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement, signed on Wednesday, 29 January 2025, aims to enhance collaboration in promoting Africa’s creative and cultural industries, particularly in music.
The partnership between the AU and AFRIMA has been in place since 2014, when AFRIMA launched its first award ceremony honouring African musical talents. This MoU is expected to deepen cooperation in supporting African artists and ensuring that African music gains further recognition on the international stage.
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Achievements of the collaboration
The AU and AFRIMA have worked together on several initiatives, including the implementation of the Revised AU Plan of Action on Cultural and Creative Industries and upholding the principles of the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance. Other key achievements include organising the 2020 “Stronger Together” online concert to support the COVID-19 Response Fund and advocating for AU initiatives under Agenda 2063.
Commitment to artists and economic growth
H.E. Amb. Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, stated that the MoU reaffirms both organisations’ dedication to supporting African musical talent and expanding opportunities for artists. “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 said.
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AFRIMA’s perspective
Mike Dada, President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, welcomed the formalisation of the partnership and acknowledged the contributions of past and present AU Commissioners. “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. Looking forward to the continued growth of this partnership for the benefit of our continent,” he stated.
