Abidjan Signals Bold Bid to Host 10th AFRIMA as Côte d’Ivoire backs its ambition during stakeholders’ parley
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, hosted top Francophone stakeholders on February 18, 2026, as the city signalled a bold ambition to host a future edition of the All Africa Music Awards at the Road to the 10th Edition Media and Stakeholders’ Parley.
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The engagement, held in Abidjan following the first Road to 10th AFRIMA event in Dar es Salaam, formed part of the global build up to the landmark 10th edition of the continental awards platform.
Government officials, cultural leaders, artistes and media executives attended the high level session, underscoring Côte d’Ivoire’s desire to position Abidjan as a strategic hub for AFRIMA activities in Francophone Africa.
Serge Akpatou, Deputy Director General of the Ivorian Bureau of Copyright, known as BURIDA, said AFRIMA adds measurable value to Africa’s creative ecosystem.
Serge Akpatou stated that AFRIMA promotes artistes, strengthens intellectual property awareness and connects African creatives to global markets.
Serge Akpatou added that Abidjan has the cultural depth and infrastructure to host a future edition.
Representing the Minister of Culture and Francophonie, Hein Sie described AFRIMA as a powerful instrument of cultural diplomacy and economic growth.
Hein Sie said events like AFRIMA enhance continental visibility, celebrate African excellence and create opportunities for creatives.
Hein Sie affirmed that Côte d’Ivoire is ready to support initiatives that reinforce its position as a creative force.
Leading the International Executive Committee at the parley were Associate Producer Victoria Nkong and International Jury Member Messie Mboukou.
Messie Mboukou, who represents Central Africa on the AFRIMA International Jury, said the gathering focused on dialogue, transparency and stronger collaboration among artistes, media, policy makers and the awards body.
Messie Mboukou explained that the adjudication process is supervised by the African Union and independently audited by a reputable global firm.
Messie Mboukou added that final results are collated exclusively by professional auditors to safeguard credibility.
The event featured winners from the 9th AFRIMA, including Didi B, Milo, Morijah and Team Paiya.
Axel Merryl from Benin Republic and DJ Moh Green also participated.
One highlight was the formal presentation of the 9th AFRIMA Trophy for Best Female Artiste in African Inspirational to Morijah, who had missed the main ceremony due to medical reasons.
Morijah described the recognition as a reward for years of sacrifice and dedication.
Didi B said AFRIMA opened wider international networks for collaboration, while Zagba of Team Paiya noted that the win boosted the group’s confidence and reach beyond Côte d’Ivoire.
DJ Moh Green reflected on his journey, saying persistence and consistency eventually paid off after multiple nominations.
Axel Merryl praised the AFRIMA Music Village concert in Lagos for expanding his audience, while Milo said performing on the platform inspired him to dream bigger.
The parley attracted international stakeholders, including Margaux Demeerssseman of the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Angelo Kabila of APRODEMC, media figure Jhon Zairois Jay and filmmaker Franck Vlehi.
The event received support from Air Côte d’Ivoire as Official Airline Partner.
As preparations intensify for the 10th edition, the International Committee of AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission and official host city Lagos, continues to celebrate the success of the 9th edition held in Lagos from January 7 to 11, 2026.
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Established in 2010 in partnership with the African Union, AFRIMA remains Africa’s largest and longest running music awards platform, broadcast live annually in more than 84 countries worldwide.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
