AFRIMA President Mike Dada joins global experts in Morocco to advance Africa’s cultural and creative industries
The President of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), Mr Mike Dada, joined global cultural and creative industry experts at the 3rd Moroccan Forum of Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) in Rabat from December 11 to 14, 2025.
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Organised under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and hosted by the HIBA Foundation, the forum convened policymakers, investors, academics, and creative professionals from countries including Senegal, Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire, Belgium, Germany, France, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, and Quebec.
Discussions focused on strengthening Africa’s cultural ecosystems and increasing the economic value of its creative industries.
Mr Dada, a lawyer and public relations consultant, participated in a major panel session titled “Towards a Pan-African Federation of Cultural Operators: Lessons from the Past and Future Directions.” He highlighted AFRIMA’s collaboration with the African Union and its role in promoting African music to a global audience.
“Africa’s creative industry is not just growing; it is becoming a powerful economic force,” Mr Dada said. “What we need now is stronger cooperation across the continent, better policies, and sustainable investment.
This forum allows us to exchange ideas, learn from global partners, and build a shared vision for African culture.”
He stressed the importance of investment, training, and collaboration to provide opportunities for young creatives.
“Through AFRIMA, we continue to promote African music worldwide, support emerging talent, and strengthen partnerships between countries. Our goal is to ensure African talent is visible, respected, and celebrated everywhere,” he added.
During the forum, Mr Dada also attended a reception hosted by the French Ambassador to Morocco, Mr Christophe Lecourtier, where cultural leaders explored potential collaborations.
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AFRIMA, established in 2014 by the International Committee AFRIMA and the African Union, celebrates and promotes Africa’s musical talent and rich cultural heritage. Its 9th edition is scheduled for January 7–11, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria, with live broadcasts in over 84 countries.
Ibrahim Onipede is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
