The stage is set for a monumental celebration of African musical excellence as Lagos, Nigeria, prepares to host the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). The event, which kicks off on January 7, 2026, promises a spectacular showcase of the continent's finest talents, broadcast live to millions of viewers.
AFRIMA 2026: Broadcast Details and Star-Studded Lineup
For audiences eager to catch every moment, the festival and main ceremony will be available on dedicated pop-up channels. DStv Channel 196 and GOtv Channel 28 will carry the live broadcasts. The action begins with the AFRIMA Music Village, an open-air concert designed to highlight Africa's dynamic contemporary music scene. This festival experience is scheduled for Friday, January 9, 2026, at 8:00 PM.
The lineup for the Music Village is a powerful testament to Africa's diverse soundscape. Confirmed artists include legendary Afrobeat maestro Femi Kuti, Nigerian hitmaker Wande Coal, Tanzanian Bongo Flava star Diamond Platnumz, and the iconic Yemi Alade. They will be joined by a host of other talents from across the continent, ensuring a genre-spanning musical journey.
Main Awards Ceremony and Hosts
The pinnacle of the event, the main awards ceremony, will take place on Sunday, January 11, 2026. The show will be co-hosted by a dynamic duo: renowned Nigerian rapper and actor Falz and French-Senegalese actress and media personality Liliane Maroune. DStv and GOtv will broadcast the ceremony live from 3:30 PM, featuring the glamorous red carpet arrivals and live performances from some of Africa's biggest music stars.
Viewers who prefer streaming will not miss out. Both the Music Village festival and the main awards ceremony can be streamed live via the pop-up channels on DStv Stream, offering flexibility to enjoy the events on multiple devices.
"Unstoppable Africa" Theme and Organizers
This year's edition carries the powerful theme "Unstoppable Africa," a fitting tribute to the continent's escalating global influence and relentless creative energy. The event is a collaborative effort organized by the International Executive Committee of AFRIMA in partnership with the African Union Commission.
The Lagos State Government serves as the official host city, reinforcing its status as a premier cultural hub in Africa. The awards continue their mission to honor outstanding musical works, elevate talent, and promote the rich cultural heritage of the African continent.
With its compelling theme, stellar lineup, and accessible broadcasting plans, the 9th AFRIMA is poised to be an unforgettable celebration of the sound that defines an unstoppable continent.
