The anticipation is palpable across the African continent as the African Union Commission (AUC) and the International Committee of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) prepare to unveil the host city for the prestigious 2025 edition. The announcement, slated for May 13th at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, will culminate in a fierce competition between two formidable contenders: Lagos, Nigeria, and Gauteng Province, South Africa. Both locales boast internationally acclaimed music scenes, vibrant cultural landscapes, and proven track records in hosting large-scale events, setting the stage for a momentous decision that will significantly impact the chosen city’s cultural and economic landscape. The selection process, initiated by the AU in 2024, involved formal invitations to both countries, directly addressed to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, urging them to explore the potential benefits of hosting Africa’s premier music awards ceremony.
The subsequent months witnessed rigorous assessments, stakeholder engagements, and committee evaluations to determine the most suitable host. Lagos, recognized as the epicenter of the globally popular Afrobeats genre, presents a compelling case. Its vibrant music culture is complemented by robust infrastructure, including modern urban rail lines, upgraded water transport systems, and a rapidly expanding real estate sector, demonstrating its capacity to accommodate the influx of international visitors expected for the event. Furthermore, Lagos’s existing entertainment infrastructure, coupled with its experience in hosting large-scale events, further strengthens its bid. The city’s pulsating energy and its status as a hub for creative industries make it a natural choice for a celebration of African music.
Gauteng Province, a formidable competitor, emerges as a musical powerhouse in its own right, renowned for exporting genres like Amapiano and Kwaito to the global stage. Encompassing major cities such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Soweto, Gauteng offers a unique blend of deep-rooted cultural heritage and modern event-hosting capabilities. Its successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, along with numerous music and film festivals, underscores its proven ability to manage events of significant magnitude. The province’s diverse musical landscape and its experience in hosting global events make it a strong contender for AFRIMA 2025. The choice between Lagos and Gauteng presents a complex decision, with both locations offering unique strengths and advantages.
The political leadership in both Lagos and Gauteng has expressed unwavering support for their respective bids, highlighting the anticipated benefits of hosting AFRIMA 2025. Both Governor Sanwo-Olu and Premier Lesufi have emphasized the potential for significant tourism growth, job creation, and inspiration for the youth, aligning with the overarching goals of economic development and cultural promotion. Hosting AFRIMA would not only showcase their respective regions to a global audience but also contribute to the development of local talent and the creative industries. The commitment from both leaders underscores the importance of this event for both regions.
Adenrele Niyi, AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer, emphasizes the far-reaching impact of hosting the awards ceremony, extending beyond the realm of music. Niyi underscores the global visibility that the host city will gain, along with the substantial boost to local economies and the lasting legacy created through outreach programs and industry summits. The event serves as a platform to showcase African talent, foster collaboration, and promote the continent’s rich cultural heritage. The benefits extend beyond the immediate event, contributing to the long-term development of the music industry and related sectors.
With a projected global broadcast audience exceeding 400 million viewers, the chosen host city will enjoy unprecedented exposure on the international stage. Past hosts, including Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, have experienced enduring cultural and economic benefits, demonstrating the transformative potential of AFRIMA. The event serves as a catalyst for tourism, investment, and cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impact on the host nation. As Africa eagerly awaits the official announcement, the excitement continues to build, promising a spectacular celebration of African music, unity, and creativity, regardless of whether the honor goes to Lagos or Gauteng. AFRIMA 2025 is poised to be a landmark event, further solidifying Africa’s position on the global music map.
