African Union (AU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) to promote the continent’s creative and culture industries.
The President and Executive Producer of AFRIMA, Mr Mike Dada, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.
Dada stated that the MoU was aimed at strengthening the already existing partnership since 2014.
He added that this was when AFRIMA launched its first award ceremony that honoured exceptional African musical talents and the promotion of African music at the international stage.
He expressed enthusiasm for the renewed collaboration, and extended appreciation to current and former AU Commissioners for their visionary leadership, overwhelming support and dedication to Africa’s creative industry.
He said his partnership represents a significant milestone and a great step forward in our shared mission to elevate African music and culture on the global stage.
He explained that “we are looking forward to continued growth of this partnership for the benefit of our continent.
“Over the years, our collaboration has achieved enormous success together, especially in implementing the revised AU Plan of Action on Cultural and Creative Industries.”
He said the collaboration would also help in upholding the principles of the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance and organising the 2020 “Stronger Together’’ online concert for COVID-19 Response Fund.
“Also in advocating for key AU initiatives towards Agenda 2063 as Africa’s premier Intergovernmental Organisation and Africa’s premier music awards platform, respectively,” he said.
Minata Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, African Union, said that signing the MoU reaffirmed AU and AFRIMA’s dedication to nurturing African musical talents.
Cessouma said this would see to expanding opportunities for all artistes, and leveraging music as a tool for integration, social cohesion and economic transformation.
“This agreement signifies a new chapter in our collaboration, ensuring that African music continues to flourish, uplift communities, and contribute to the well-being of artistes and the continent’s development agenda.”
