Africa Rising Music Conference unveils exciting speakers and programme for 2026

The Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) is set to return to Constitution Hill in Johannesburg on 22 and 23 May 2026, with a renewed commitment to fostering industry exchange across Africa’s burgeoning music ecosystem. This female-led initiative aims to create a dynamic platform for dialogue among artists, executives, technologists, and cultural workers, bridging the gap between local and international entities.

“ARMC continues to be about building real pathways - between artists, executives, markets, and ideas,” states Sarah Jane Nicholson, the Founder and Conference Director of ARMC. “Announcing our first speakers and genre spotlights sets the tone for a programme rooted in collaboration, cultural relevance, and long-term industry impact. We’re excited to reveal much more in the months ahead.”

Speaking at the 2025 conference, Yvonne Chaka Chaka reflected on the importance of continued learning and exchange within the industry:“Life is for the living. You live now,You do things now and that’s why I thought I don’t know it all. That’s why I’m at this conference because I wanted to learn from those who know better than me. I wanted to learn from the young people as well and also impart my knowledge to them. So I think it’s a two-way street, you know. It’s about listening, it’s about giving, you know, and it’s about receiving as well.”

Among the first round of confirmed speakers are prominent figures from music, media, and technology. South African talents include acclaimed artist Elaine, Nkosiyati Khumalo of Billboard Africa, singer-songwriter Filah Lah Lah, and Rofhiwa Maneta from Meta. Additionally, international contributors such as Steffen Holly from Germany’s Fraunhofer IDMT and UK-based Alex Jukes from Jukebox PR have also been announced, with further speakers expected to join the line-up in the coming months.

Enhancing the conference’s credibility, ARMC 2026 has formed a strategic partnership with the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA). This collaboration aims to involve both major and independent labels in critical discussions surrounding rights management, sustainability, and the long-term viability of the industry.

Another highlight will be genre-focused programming, particularly spotlighting Lekompo and Maskandi. Lekompo, an up-and-coming genre native to Limpopo, has garnered tens of millions of streams through talents like Shandesh and Kharishma, showcasing the power of regional sounds in reaching national audiences via digital platforms. Meanwhile, sessions on Maskandi will explore how this traditional music genre, deeply rooted in community, adapts to present-day distribution methods while preserving its cultural identity.

The structure of the conference program revolves around four pivotal pillars: Live & Entertainment, Innovation & Music Tech, Education & Employment, and Export & Building Bridges. Notably, ARMC will introduce the AI Think Tank Roundtable in Johannesburg for the first time. Launching originally in Berlin, this initiative convenes leaders from music and technology sectors to discuss ethical AI usage, creator protection, fair attribution, and the nurturing of independent Pan-African ecosystems.

In addition to its comprehensive daytime agenda, ARMC will feature an expanded evening program, presenting live showcases throughout the vibrant city of Johannesburg.

As the ARMC gears up for its upcoming edition in 2026, it remains dedicated to being a catalyst for ongoing industry conversations. With an emphasis on exchange, accountability, and sustainable structural change, the forum reflects a significant shift within the African music scene, one that places collaboration and learning at its core.

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Saturday Star