AFRIMA 2025 kicks off with jury arriving in Lagos for a week-long adjudication. Thousands of entries to be judged for Africa’s biggest music awards

AFRIMA 2025 officially shifts into high gear as the international jury arrives in Lagos for an intensive week-long adjudication session from August 8 to 16.

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The session will review thousands of music entries submitted by talents across Africa and the diaspora, from seasoned artistes to fresh voices.

Organized under the theme “Unstoppable Africa,” this year’s All Africa Music Awards promises a vibrant celebration of African creativity.

The adjudication process, a cornerstone of AFRIMA 2025, will determine the final Nominees List, set for release on August 24.

Ms. Hadja Kobele, representing the African Diaspora (North America), emphasized the jury’s commitment to integrity.

“Every submission—big name or unknown—is judged on merit: quality, originality, impact, and cultural relevance,” she said. “No shortcuts. Just honest, expert work to honour Africa’s best.”

AFRIMA 2025 partners with the African Union and Lagos State to deliver an event across 40+ categories, showcasing music’s diverse richness.

This year, the 13-member jury welcomes new voices from Morocco, Kenya, and Congo Brazzaville.

Voting opens September 5 via www.afrima.org, with global fans and the AFRIMA Academy participating.

Voting closes 24 hours before the awards night on November 30, broadcast live to 84+ countries. The week-long celebration will also feature the Africa Music Business Summit, Music Village Concert, and Nominees Party.