With some of its biggest stars earning nominations in the 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA), East Africa has once again reaffirmed its place as a powerful force in the continent’s music industry.
However, Tanzania continues to dominate East Africa’s presence at this year’s AFRIMMA slated for September 12 in Dallas, Texas, USA, with big names like Juma Jux, Diamond Platnumz, Lavalava, Abigail Chams, and Zuchu garnering multiple nominations.
They are joined by Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo and Kenya’s Bien, Nikita Kering, Njerae and Nameless, among other East African talents shaping this year’s list.
The artistes feature alongside some of Africa’s biggest names including Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Tems, Rema, Ayra Starr, Tyla, Asake, BNXN and Black Sherif, underscoring another landmark year for African music’s global reach, and for East Africa’s growing share of it.
This year’s nomination list also marks a big return for the award platform. After a two-year hiatus, AFRIMMA is back, expanding beyond mere awards into AFRIMMA Music Festival, with live performances, cultural showcases, and immersive experiences alongside the nominations.
Speaking on the comeback, Founder/ Executive Producer, Anderson Obiagwu, aka Big A, said, “For the last two years, AFRIMMA took a break to make it even bigger. This year, we’re coming back as a full festival, not just an awards night, bigger stages, bigger names, bigger celebration. We remain committed to championing African music and the incredible talents driving it.”
For East African artistes and fans, AFRIMMA’s return means a bigger stage than ever to see the region’s stars recognized alongside the continent’s biggest names and a reason to watch Dallas this September.