Submission of songs and videos to be nominated for the 5th annual All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) will close on Wednesday, August 1. A statement from the music event that celebrates and rewards the music talents of the continent while showcasing the African cultural heritage to a global audience for a positive narrative, made this known.
Organised by the African Union Commission in partnership with the International Committee of AFRIMA, it announced its call for entries for the 2018 edition on May 25. It then opened its online portal- www.afrima.org to receive songs and videos recorded or produced by African music professionals either living on the continent or in the diaspora within the eligibility period of August 1, 2017 to August 1, 2018.
Established and emerging African music stars have been sending in their songs and videos to compete in the 36 regional and continental award categories to participate in the process. The 5th AFRIMA main awards ceremony is scheduled for November 2018. The high level of participation in the submission by Africa’s music industry is an indication that the 2018 nomination entries are set to surpass those received in previous years.
Furthermore, AFRIMA recently saw the introduction of four new award categories to enable more creative professionals in the music and entertainment industry participate in the process, giving room for expansion and inclusiveness. The newly introduced categories are Best African DJ; Best African Dance/Choreography; Best African Lyricist/Rapper of the Year and Best African Act in Diaspora.
Speaking on the countdown, AFRIMA Country Director, South Africa, Mr. Lekunutu Seboko, advised African artistes yet to enter their works to take advantage of the few days remaining.
“I would like to urge all musicians, record labels, music producers, music managers and the recording industry of Africa at large to take full advantage of the few days remaining before submissions closes on the 1st of August. I encourage you to submit your crafts or submit on behalf of your clients in any of the suitable award categories. Africans should embrace this initiative by AFRIMA and show full cooperation and support. AFRIMA is the biggest platform where Africans are showing immense enthusiasm through music and art,” he said.