Zanzibar’s Trace Awards Summit: A Celebration of African Music

Zanzibar’s Trace Awards Summit Elevates African Music to Global Heights

Zanzibar, Tanzania – The Trace Awards & Summit in Zanzibar has set a new benchmark for celebrating African and Afro-descendant musical excellence, showcasing the continent’s profound influence on the global music scene.

The event, held in the breathtaking archipelago of Zanzibar, was more than just an awards ceremony—it was a convergence of artists, industry leaders, and music executives dedicated to shaping the future of African music.

A Global Celebration of African Music

“The Trace Awards Summit brought Africa’s rich musical heritage to Zanzibar, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary,” remarked Ibrahim Mitawi, Managing Director of Showtimes Company, which organized the event.

Under the meticulous planning and execution of Showtimes Company, the summit provided a platform for engaging discussions on the intersection of African music, global tourism, and economic opportunities. High-profile attendees included Zanzibar’s President, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, and Olivier Laouchez, Co-Founder & CEO of Trace, alongside key music industry partners and sponsors.

Panels such as Breaking the Global Barrier – Insights from Sean Garrett (The Pen) and discussions featuring Diamond Platnumz, Kudjo Sogadzi, and Sean Okeke examined strategies for elevating African artists onto the global stage.

Delivering a World-Class Event

Showtimes Company ensured the summit was executed flawlessly, from venue setup to logistics. “This was more than an event—it was a statement of our ability to deliver high-caliber experiences that celebrate culture, inspire audiences, and set new industry standards,” Mitawi added.

Beyond insightful discussions, the summit was a spectacle of electrifying performances, honoring Africa’s top musical talents with prestigious awards.

Key Award Winners

• Song of the Year: Tswhala Bam – Tito and Huppe (South Africa)

• Album of the Year: Heis – Rema (Nigeria)

• Male Artist of the Year: Rema (Nigeria)

• Best Collaboration: Coup du Marteau – Tam Sir & Team Paiya (Ivory Coast)

• Best Music Video: DND – Directed by Meji Alabi

• Best Dancer: Makhadzi (South Africa)

• Best DJ: DJ Moh Green (Algeria)

• Best Global African Artist: Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

• Best Hip-Hop Artist: Didi B (Ivory Coast)

• Best Female Artist: Tyla (South Africa)

• Best Live Performance: Fally Ipupa (DR Congo)

• Best Producer: P.Priime (Nigeria)

• Best Gospel Artist: Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)

• Best Artist Francophone Africa: Josey (Ivory Coast)

• Best Artist Western Africa: Ayra Starr (Nigeria)

• Best Artist Southern Africa: Tyler ICU (South Africa)

• Best Artist Eastern Africa: Bien (Kenya)

• Best Artist Lusophone Africa: Chelsea Dinorath (Angola)

• Best Artist Tanzania: Nandy (Tanzania)

• Changemaker Award: Sherrie Silver (Rwanda)

• Best Artist Diaspora Brazil: Duquesa (Brazil)

• Best Artist Diaspora Indian Ocean: Lea Churros (Réunion)

• Best Newcomer: Himra (Ivory Coast)

• Best Artist Diaspora Caribbean: Kenny Haitï

• Lifetime Achievement Award: D’Banj (Nigeria)

A Lasting Legacy

The Trace Awards & Summit in Zanzibar has reaffirmed Africa’s place as a powerhouse in the global music industry. With its commitment to excellence, Showtimes Company continues to elevate the continent’s cultural prestige on the world stage, positioning itself as a trusted partner in organizing premier events.

As African music continues to captivate global audiences, the Trace Awards & Summit serves as a beacon for the industry’s future, fostering collaboration, innovation, and international recognition.