AFRIMA announces initiative to train 1.2 million young Africans

The All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) is launching the AFRIMA Kreative Academy (TAKA), a project aimed at reshaping Africa’s creative sector through education, skills development, and job creation. This initiative seeks to empower 1.2 million young Africans over the next five years, providing them with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in the rapidly expanding global music industry.
Themed ‘Learn and Prosper,’ the program is designed for young Africans between 18 and 35 years old, with a particular emphasis on underserved and vulnerable communities across the continent. AFRIMA Founder and Executive Producer, Mike Dada, highlighted that the academy addresses the critical need for skilled professionals in Africa’s growing music scene. Despite the continent's abundant talent, there remains a significant gap in structured training and access to opportunities.
TAKA will offer world-class training in essential areas of the music ecosystem and value chain, including music production, music business and entrepreneurship, event technical production, digital technology, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The academy will conduct three training cycles each year, with each cycle spanning four months over five years. AFRIMA will bring together top music producers, successful artists, expert sound engineers, and experienced event professionals from Africa and the diaspora to serve as trainers, mentors, and potential employers.
Beyond skill acquisition, TAKA aims to drive broader social and economic benefits, such as improved knowledge and capacity among young creatives, increased job creation, the promotion of African culture, and overall economic empowerment. Dada emphasized the urgent need for practical learning and job creation in the music and creative industry, stating that Africa must invest in training its young people to compete globally.
AFRIMA is also planning to launch a Global Tour in 2026, featuring live music mega shows, performances, and cultural events in major cities across Africa and the world. According to Nde Ndifonka, AFRIMA’s Regional Director for Central Africa, this tour will provide artists with opportunities to perform live, connect with fans, earn money, and enhance their stage skills, ultimately opening new doors for African music on the global stage.
AFRIMA 2025, which commenced with the unveiling of its Calendar and Host City in Addis Ababa, will lead up to the Global Tour next year. The AFRIMA 2025 Awards Week, scheduled from November 25 to 30, will include events such as the Diamond Showcase, Africa Music Business Summit, Nominees Party, Music Village Festival, and the Main Awards Ceremony on November 30, broadcast live on numerous TV stations and digital platforms worldwide.