Expansion of AFRIMA’s International Jury for 2025
As the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) prepares for its 2025 adjudication process, the event has announced the addition of three new members to its international jury panel. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure that the judging process remains professional, inclusive, and reflective of the continent’s vast cultural diversity.
The newly appointed jurors are Marwane Fachane from Morocco, Asma Ilado from Kenya, and Messie Mboukou from the Republic of the Congo. Each brings a unique set of experiences and expertise in music, culture, and youth development, contributing to the 14-member jury that will play a crucial role in selecting the best musical talents across Africa and the diaspora.
Diverse Expertise and Professional Backgrounds
Marwane Fachane, the Executive Director of the Hiba Foundation, represents Northern Africa and leads strategic initiatives at one of Morocco’s leading creative and cultural organizations. His involvement in the arts and youth empowerment aligns with AFRIMA’s mission to celebrate and promote African talent on a global scale.
Fachane expressed his honor in joining the jury, stating, “This platform is key to celebrating African talent and showing the world what our continent can offer.” He emphasized the rapid growth of African creativity and the need for continued support and promotion on international platforms.
Messie Mboukou, representing Central Africa, is a well-known executive in music communication, events, and digital media. Based in France, he runs a consulting agency that supports numerous African artists both on the continent and in the diaspora. Mboukou has also been involved in organizing over 1,000 events worldwide.
Mboukou shared his excitement about the opportunity, saying, “It’s a privilege to be part of AFRIMA. I believe Africa’s greatest wealth is in its youth and culture. If we support young talent and work together, the future will be even brighter.” He pledged to contribute to a fair and transparent judging process that highlights the beauty of African music.
Asma Ilado, a journalist and cultural development consultant from Kenya, described herself as a culture advocate. She looks forward to discovering new voices and talents during the adjudication process. “Platforms like AFRIMA are important, not just for recognizing excellence, but for building bridges between regions and helping the industry grow stronger,” she said.
Positive Reception from AFRIMA Leadership
Adenrele Niyi, the Chief Experience Officer of AFRIMA, welcomed the new jurors with enthusiasm. “We are delighted to welcome Lucy, Marwane, and Messie to the AFRIMA International Jury. We’ve already started on a warm and respectful note, and I’m optimistic about the energy and depth they’ll bring to the team.”
Niyi highlighted the significance of each juror’s background, noting their experience in different regions of Africa. “Their inclusion this year adds a refreshing layer of perspective to our already diverse and highly skilled Jury,” she said.
She also mentioned the upcoming adjudication process, which will take place in Lagos, Nigeria, in August 2025. “I look forward to receiving the lovely lady and the fine gentlemen in Lagos, Nigeria, this August as we gather for the 2025 AFRIMA Adjudication Process. It’s always a special time—rigorous, engaging, and deeply inspiring—and I’m confident they will feel right at home.”
A Global Celebration of African Music
AFRIMA 2025 is set to take place in Lagos from November 25 to 30. The event will be broadcast in more than 84 countries, showcasing the continent's rich musical heritage to a global audience.
With the addition of these new jurors, AFRIMA continues to strengthen its commitment to fostering talent, promoting cultural exchange, and ensuring that African music receives the recognition it deserves on the world stage.