AFRIMA 2026: Continental Stars Shine as Winners Emerge in Lagos

Winners have been announced at the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), with artists from across the continent picking up honours at a glittering ceremony held in Lagos.

The event drew leading musicians, industry executives and fans from Africa and the diaspora, turning Nigeria’s commercial capital into a hub of celebration for African music, dance and creativity.

Among the standout moments of the night was the Best African Dance/Choreography award, which went to Ethiopian act Weeha for “Dimama,” edging out strong contenders including Wizkid, Tyla and Serge Beynaud. The category showed the growing global influence of African dance styles and performance culture.

In the Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary category, Nigerian star Yemi Alade emerged winner with “You Are” from the animated series Iyanu, beating entries from Ghana, Egypt, Senegal and Tunisia.

Senegalese songwriter Bakhaw Dioum claimed Songwriter of the Year for “Choix,” performed by Mia Guissé featuring Wally B Seck, in a category that featured notable writers from Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda and Namibia.

Regional honours also reflected the diversity of Africa’s music scene. Denise of Madagascar won Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa, while Tanzania’s Jux secured Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa. In Central Africa, Congolese singer Cindy Le Coeur was named Best Female Artiste.

The ceremony also paid tribute to industry pioneers, with Nigerian music executives and brothers Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo ‘Dee 1’ Adeneye receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards for their contributions to the growth of African music.

AFRIMA organisers said the awards continue to provide a platform for celebrating excellence and promoting cultural exchange across the continent, as African music expands its footprint on the global stage.

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