AFRIMMA 2026 Nominees Revealed: Africa’s Biggest Stars Battle for Continental Supremacy

The countdown to African music’s most anticipated night is officially on. AFRIMMA—the All Africa Music Awards—has just dropped its 2026 nominee list, and it’s a who’s who of the continent’s most electrifying talent. From Lagos to Luanda, Nairobi to Nouakchott, the lineup reads like a masterclass in what happens when African creativity meets global ambition.

This year’s nominations paint a vivid picture of African music’s current landscape. Nigerian superstars Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, and Rema dominate multiple categories, while Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz and South Africa’s breakout sensation Tyla hold their own. The recognition spans far beyond Afrobeats too—gospel, hip-hop, Amapiano, dancehall, and regional sounds from every corner of the continent get their moment. It’s not just about the music either; AFRIMMA is celebrating the full ecosystem with nods to video directors, producers, DJs, dancers, and even athletes who rep African excellence worldwide.

The major categories tell their own stories. Artist of the Year features heavyweights like Asake, Fally Ipupa, Burna Boy, Tyla, and Tems—each one representing a different facet of Africa’s sonic revolution. Meanwhile, Song of the Year sees Davido and Omah Lay’s “With You” competing against BNXN & Sarz’s “Back Outside,” Diamond Platnumz and Juma Jux’s “Joy,” and Black Sherif’s “So It Goes.” Regional categories ensure every part of the continent gets shine, from West Africa’s stacked fields to North Africa’s rising rap scene to Southern Africa’s Amapiano dominance.

What makes AFRIMMA special is its commitment to the full picture. The Crossing Boundaries with Music Award recognizes artists breaking through international barriers—this year’s list includes Burna Boy, Rema, Aya Nakamura, and Nigeria-based Toby Nwigwe. There’s a Timeless Impact Award honoring legends like Flavour, Sarkodie, and Egypt’s Amr Diab. And in a testament to how interconnected culture has become, categories for African-based DJs in the USA, influencers, comedians, and even a Community Impact Award round out the nominations. Because at the end of the day, African music isn’t just an industry—it’s a movement.

The full list of nominees spans 35 categories, covering everything from Best Male/Female across five African regions to Best Gospel, Best Collaboration, Music Producer of the Year, and even African Athlete of the Year (featuring football stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman). Voting details and the ceremony date are expected to be announced soon, but one thing’s already clear: 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for African music on the world stage.

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