The race to find Africa’s next generation of music talent is officially under way. AFRIMA has opened applications for the Diamond Showcase — a platform built specifically for rising artists who are still under the radar but ready for a wider stage.
The Showcase, now in its 9th edition, isn’t just another contest. It’s meant to give undiscovered singers, rappers, DJs, producers and instrumentalists a real shot at crossing into the mainstream. If you’ve got the talent, the organisers say, this is one of the few places where you can actually be seen.
A platform for the unseen
Janatte Haddadi, AFRIMA’s Regional Manager for Northern Africa, said the Diamond Showcase offers a rare opening for young creatives hungry to grow. She stressed that AFRIMA wants to find, mentor and promote artists who might be making impressive work in their communities but rarely get the chance to meet people who can change the course of their careers.
Applications will run from 18 November to 8 December 2025, and Haddadi urged artists to submit early through AFRIMA’s website or official Instagram page.
How to apply
The process is simple:
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Submit a 45-second performance video.
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AFRIMA’s jury will then review all entries.
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The top 15 finalists, called “The Diamonds,” will be selected and invited to Lagos for the live Showcase.
In her words, “We want to find the brightest diamonds in the rough across Africa. There are young artists in small towns, big cities, and everywhere in between who are doing amazing things with their music. Many of them have never had the chance to stand before the people who can help shape their careers. The Diamond Showcase is here to bridge that gap.”
What finalists can expect
Those who make the cut will be flown to Lagos, Nigeria, from 6 to 7 January 2026, for two nights of live performances running from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Beyond the stage time, finalists will receive:
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An all-expense-paid trip
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AFRIMA gifts
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Mentorship sessions
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A chance to perform before major media houses, leading music executives and key industry players
Haddadi urged artists not to sit back. “If you believe in your gift, this is the time to act,” she said. “Don’t wait. Don’t hold back. Submit your entry. Africa is ready to meet its next big talents, and we are ready to support your first major step.”
The road to the 9th AFRIMA Awards
The Diamond Showcase forms part of the build-up to the 9th AFRIMA Awards, scheduled for 7–11 January 2026 in Lagos. The week-long programme will feature the Africa Music Business Summit, the Music Village Concert, the Nominees Party, the Red Carpet and, of course, the grand Awards Night. The ceremony — co-organised with the African Union and Lagos State — will be broadcast live to more than 84 countries.
