Anticipation is building across Africa as the African Union Commission and the International Committee of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) gear up to announce the host city for the 2025 edition on May 13 at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The much-awaited decision has been narrowed down to two leading contenders: Lagos, Nigeria , and Gauteng Province, South Africa , both renowned for their dynamic music scenes and cultural contributions.
In 2024, the AU formally invited both regions to vie for hosting rights, writing directly to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi . Since then, rigorous assessments, stakeholder engagements, and evaluations have taken place to determine which city is best suited to host Africa’s premier music awards.
Why Lagos Stands Out
Lagos, the heartbeat of Afrobeats , is a natural contender. Beyond its pulsating music culture, the city boasts modern infrastructure, including urban rail lines, upgraded water transport, and a thriving real estate sector. These attributes position Lagos to seamlessly accommodate thousands of international visitors.
“Lagos is not just a city; it’s a symbol of Africa’s creative energy,” the statement noted. “Its readiness to host AFRIMA reflects both its cultural significance and infrastructural advancements.”
Why Gauteng Shines
On the other hand, Gauteng Province , home to Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Soweto, offers a compelling case. Known for exporting genres like Amapiano and Kwaito to global audiences, Gauteng blends rich cultural heritage with world-class event-hosting capabilities. Its track record includes successfully hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup and numerous music festivals.
Leaders’ Support
Both Sanwo-Olu and Lesufi have expressed strong backing for their respective bids, emphasizing the potential for tourism growth, job creation, and youth inspiration.
AFRIMA’s Vision
AFRIMA’s Chief Experience Officer, Adenrele Niyi , highlighted the broader impact of hosting the awards.
“Hosting AFRIMA goes beyond music—it brings global visibility, stimulates local economies, and leaves a lasting legacy through outreach programs and industry summits,” Niyi said. With a projected global broadcast audience of over 400 million , the chosen city will enjoy unparalleled exposure. Past hosts like Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal have reaped enduring cultural and economic benefits.
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