The 2025 edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) has revealed a record-breaking list of nominees, following an unprecedented 10,717 entries—the highest since the awards' inception 12 years ago. A 13-member International Jury, after 10 days of adjudication, meticulously shortlisted 343 nominees across 40 categories, representing Africa's five regions and the diaspora. The International Committee of AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC), confirmed that public voting will open globally on September 10, 2025, via the official AFRIMA website, and will close on the eve of the main awards ceremony, November 30, 2025.

Nigerian superstars Burna Boy and Davido emerged as top contenders, each securing five nominations. Burna Boy's album 'No Sign of Weakness' and Davido's '5ive' were both nominated for Album of the Year. Davido's hit single 'With You' (featuring Omah Lay) also earned spots in Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration. Both artists are also nominated for Best Male Artiste in West Africa and Artiste of the Year, with Burna Boy further recognized for Best African Artiste Duo or Group in African Pop. Matching their five nods is South Africa's DJ Maphorisa, who is nominated for Best African DJ and Album of the Year, and Morocco's rap star El Grande Toto, whose album 'Salgoat' and hit 'Diplomatico' garnered significant attention.

Female acts are making a strong impact on the continent's music scene, with Senegal's Mia Guissé and Ghana's Moliy each receiving five nominations. Other prominent Nigerian artists include the fast-rising street-pop sensation Shallipopi, who clinched four nominations, including Artiste of the Year and Song of the Year for his collaboration 'Laho,' as well as Breakout Artiste of the Year. Rema garnered three nominations, including Artiste of the Year and Best Male in West Africa, while Ayra Starr secured two nominations, notably for the Artiste of the Year Award.

The list further showcases a diverse array of talent from across the continent. Egypt's Amr Diab, one of the Middle East's best-selling artists, scooped four nominations. Côte d'Ivoire's Himra picked up three nominations, including Album of the Year for 'Big Aka 4 Aka Kai,' establishing himself as a strong newcomer. Tanzania's Diamond Platnumz continued his dominance in East Africa with four nominations. South Africa's breakout star Tyla and Eswatini's Uncle Waffles each earned four nominations, highlighting the rising power of amapiano and Afro-house sounds. Other notable nominees include Cote d'Ivoire's Didi B (three nominations, including Best Male Artiste in West Africa and Album of the Year), Gabon's Eboloko (three nods, including Breakout Artiste of the Year), and Emma'a (three nominations, including Best Female Artiste in Central Africa). DR Congo's heavyweights, Fally Ipupa and Ferre Gola, both bagged three nominations, with Ipupa vying for Artiste of the Year and Gola for Songwriter of the Year. North Africa's Jaylann (Morocco) and East Africa's Juma Jux (Tanzania) each received three nominations, as did South Africa's Mawhoo and rap star Nasty C.

The diaspora also shone brightly, with male nominees such as DJ Snake, Gazo, Niska, Tayc, Tiakola, Tif, Werenoi, WizTheMC, L'Algérino, and Odeal. Female diaspora nominees include Aya Nakamura, Annatoria, Choisie Basolua, Darkoo, Deborah Lukalu, Faouzia, Ronisia, The Unveiled, Theodora, and Zaho. This year's competition is anticipated to be fiercer than ever, with established stars facing stiff competition from rising sensations.

AFRIMA jury member Delani Makhalima, representing the Southern African region, expressed his satisfaction with the nominees' list, stating it proves how far African music has come.