AFRIMA 2025 Breaks Record with 10,717 Entries Across Africa, Diaspora
The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has set a new milestone for its 2025 edition, receiving an unprecedented 10,717 entries from across the continent and the African diaspora. Organisers described the feat as a testament to the growing global influence and diversity of African music.
The submission window, which opened on May 27 and closed on August 8, welcomed a wide range of entries spanning songs, albums, music videos, and other creative works. Participants included established and emerging artists, songwriters, producers, choreographers, DJs, record labels, and independent talents eager to showcase their craft on one of Africa’s biggest music stages.
In the regional breakdown, West Africa led with 5,215 entries, representing 48.68% of the total. Southern Africa followed with 2,080 entries (19.42%), while Eastern Africa contributed 804 entries (7.50%). Central Africa submitted 291 entries (2.72%), Northern Africa 267 entries (2.49%), and the diaspora accounted for 75 entries (0.70%).
The adjudication process began on August 8 in Lagos, where a 13-member international jury drawn from across the continent and the diaspora is reviewing the submissions. This phase, which runs until August 17, will focus on criteria such as quality, originality, impact, and cultural relevance.
Organisers have announced that the nominees for AFRIMA 2025 will be unveiled on August 24, paving the way for the public voting phase, which opens on September 5 via the official AFRIMA website. Voting will continue until 24 hours before the Awards Night on November 30.
This year’s event is scheduled to hold in Lagos from November 25 to 30, featuring several activities including the Africa Music Business Summit, the AFRIMA Music Village Concert, a Nominees Party, and the Grand Awards Night, which will be broadcast live to audiences in over 84 countries.
Speaking on the record-breaking achievement, jury member Adam Tiran from Southern Africa described the turnout as proof of the continent’s vibrant music culture.
“The record number of entries for AFRIMA 2025 is more than just a statistic; it shows how alive, creative, and unstoppable African music is right now,” he said.
