The international jury for the 2025 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has expressed excitement over the large number of entries received in just four weeks. With the portal set to close on August 8, creatives across Africa and the diaspora are rushing to submit their works.
Since the portal opened on May 27, entries have come in from artists, songwriters, producers, video directors, DJs, dancers, choreographers, record labels, and even unrecorded talents. The 13-member jury—comprising industry experts from various regions—is reviewing the entries as they arrive.
Delani Makhalima, a prominent music producer and jury representative from Southern Africa, praised the strong response. He described the turnout as impressive and said it reflects AFRIMA’s growing influence across the continent and beyond.
“We’re excited by the massive turnout,” Makhalima said. “African creatives see AFRIMA as more than an award. It’s a movement that connects them to the global industry and showcases their talent to the world. The early surge in entries shows they’re ready to shine.”
AFRIMA Awards Week Set for Lagos in November
Submissions are open to creatives of African descent worldwide. However, only works released between August 8, 2024, and August 8, 2025, are eligible. All entries must be submitted on the official website, www.afrima.org, following the official guidelines. Email submissions will not be accepted.
Omar Essaidi, a jury member from Morocco representing North Africa, urged participants to submit early. He noted that the process follows a strict timeline and will not accommodate late entries.
“AFRIMA has followed a transparent, audited process since 2013,” Essaidi said. “We stick to a clear schedule covering screening, voting, and auditing. Every stage matters for fairness and credibility.”
After submissions close, the jury will pre-screen and review the entries from August 12 to 19. Final nominees will be revealed on August 24, with public voting starting September 5 and ending November 28.
The event will climax in Lagos, Nigeria, from November 25 to 30, as confirmed by the African Union. Activities during Awards Week will include the Diamond Showcase, Africa Music Business Summit, Nominees & Industry Night, AFRIMA Music Village, and the Main Awards Ceremony on Sunday, November 30.
The awards will air live in 84 countries, giving African talents global exposure.
