Yemi Alade, Qing Madi, Others, Win at AFRIMA 2026

African women, including Cindy Le Coeur, Yemi Alade, and Qing Madi, emerged among the biggest winners at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), held in Lagos State. The ceremony took place on January 11, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre, celebrating musical excellence across the continent.

AFRIMA, which stands for All Africa Music Awards, was created to promote African music globally. The awards recognise musicians, producers, and creatives from across the continent and have grown into one of Africa’s most respected music platforms.

Before the main awards, the red carpet welcomed African celebrities and guests in a three-hour showcase featuring stars from music, film and the wider entertainment industry. The event was hosted by Nigerian influencer Enioluwa Adeoluwa and Kenyan actress Claudia Naisabwa. 

Several women artists were recognised for their talent and creativity. Cindy Le Coeur from the Democratic Republic of Congo won Best Female Artistes in Central Africa. Denise from Madagascar won Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa. Sherine from Egypt received the award for Best Female Artiste in Northern Africa. 

Nontokozo Mkhize from South Africa won Best Female Artiste in Southern Africa. Wendy Shay from Ghana won Best Female Artiste in Western Africa. Morijah from Côte d’Ivoire won Best Female Artiste in African Inspirational Music.

Nigerian artist Yemi Alade also won Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series, or Documentary for You Are from Iyanu: The Animated Series. Qing Madi from Nigeria was named Most Promising Artiste of the Year.

This year’s ceremony reflected the growing influence of African women in shaping the continent’s music industry, while also underscoring the strong regional diversity on display, with artists from the Ivory Coast and Nigeria emerging as key contenders across multiple categories.