At the heart of Africa lies its music and Muziki Africa, an industry gathering at FAME Week Cape Town from 2-3 September, is where the music industry will meet to unpack the latest trends and topics, meet their peers and get down to business.
This year’s programme features panel discussions with prominent industry speakers such as Msaki, Danilo Acquisto, Osman Mkhondo, Thando Nyameni, Cannon Kent and Martin Myers, among others. Topics include music rights and royalties, financial models and eco-systems, as well as the convergence of music, film and television.
Muziki Africa is sponsored by collective management organisation, the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA). Says CEO, Pfanani Lishivha, “As Africa’s screen industries expand, so too does the need to ensure that composers, performers and producers are properly credited and rewarded. FAME Week is a powerful platform to connect creators with the opportunities, networks and rights knowledge that will allow our continent’s music to travel far and wide
Downtown Music Publishing Africa (DMPA), the leading independent publisher on the continent will also join Muziki Africa as a partner. The organization represents the copyrights of top composers including Brendan Jury (Jozi Gold, Netlfix), Philip Miller (Shaka Ilembe, MultiChoice) and Eric Musyoka (Twende, Showmax Kenya). Says Managing Director (DMPA) and Chairperson of the Music Publishers Association of South Africa (MPASA), Thando Makhunga, “We see the immense potential for African musicians and artists to enhance the storytelling process by connecting with producers and directors from across the world”.
Says Muziki partner, KwaZulu-Natal United Music Industry Association (KUMISA), Managing Director, Thando Nyameni, “At KUMISA, we believe the music industry’s true potential lies in unlocking both its cultural richness and commercial value. We look forward to engaging with industry peers, exploring new opportunities, and amplifying KZN’s vibrant creative voice on the world stage.”
Here are some highlights of the panels to look forward to:
Show Me the Money – Making Sense (and Cents) of the Music Industry Money Map
The music industry is vibrant, but knowing how money flows is essential for turning passion into profit. This session clarifies rights, royalties, and revenue streams, helping artists and entrepreneurs find real value. A panel moderated by Martin Myers (Cape Talk), featuring Aldor Nini (Acromax Media), Thando Nyameni (KUMISA), Tiyani Maluleke (SAMPRA) and Osman Mkhondo (OM Attorneys & PambiliMedia), will discuss earnings, deal structures and strategies to maximise income.
Beyond the Stage: Turning Your Musical Voice into a Multi-Platform Powerhouse
Your music opens doors to film, television, gaming, and branding. This session will explore how artists can leverage sync licensing, scoring, and brand deals to build sustainable careers beyond streaming and gigs. Moderated by Brian Little (Pressure Cooker Studios) with insights from Fosta Ngcukana (Bridges for Music), Rudy Julius and Tumi Mogapi (Africori).
From Atlanta to Africa: Building Global Music Bridges
Explore the fusion of Atlanta’s music innovation and Africa’s rhythm in a discussion with leaders from the Recording Academy (Atlanta Chapter) and others. Moderated by Dr. A’lon Holliday, the panel will delve into global platforms, cultural exchange and strategies for elevating African music.
Next Up – The Hustle, Hope & Hype of Young Artists in Africa’s Music Industry
This panel examines the real experiences of young artists breaking into Africa’s music industry. Antos Stella (The Music Arena) leads a discussion on challenges, funding, team-building, and the future of African music, including AI and global opportunities.
The Power of Collectives – Reviving the Spirit of Community
Buyisiwe Njoko (Sun Xa Experiment) discusses the need to revive collectives in South Africa’s music scene to foster support and collaboration amidst the dominance of solo artists for mental health and inclusivity.
The Truth About Music Rights in Film & Television—Debunking Myths and Maximizing Opportunities
Andrew Mitchell (Gresham Rights Management) clarifies music rights in film and television, debunking common myths and providing practical tips for navigating legal complexities for artists and filmmakers.
Streaming Signals: Decoding Tomorrow’s Music Trends and tastes today
This session reveals emerging trends from streaming platforms, focusing on rising genres and listener habits. Yoel Kenan (Africori) shares insights to help artists and labels stay ahead.
Own Your Sound: Own Your Sound: Protecting Your Music and Knowing Your Rights
Learn to protect your music with this essential session on rights, royalties, and contracts. With insights from Thando Nyameni (KUMISA), David Feinberg (Rosengarden & Feinberg), Nick Matzukis (Academy of Sound Engineering), and Osman Mkhondo (OM Attorneys & PambiliMedia), gain the knowledge to navigate the music industry confidently.
With expert insights, industry-shaping conversations and a showcase of Africa’s musical diversity, the Muziki Africa Programme at FAME Week Africa 2025 will form part of a week long event that will explore the film, television, fashion and music industries in Africa within shifting global cultural narratives.