The Music Imbizo has opened exhibition applications and competition entries for its 2026 edition, scheduled to take place in Durban from 25 to 29 August.
The annual event brings together artists, managers, record labels, publishers, collecting societies, technology companies, policymakers, brands and other music industry stakeholders. The conference combines professional networking, exhibitions, business development opportunities and knowledge-sharing sessions focused on the African music sector.
Organisers said the daytime programme will centre on industry engagement, allowing delegates to connect with potential partners, explore new markets and learn about developments in the music business. A series of live performances, showcases and cultural events will also take place across Durban during the week.
Exhibition Applications
Businesses, organisations and institutions can apply for exhibition space at the event. The exhibition provides direct access to artists, entrepreneurs, service providers, students, policymakers and industry professionals. Eligible sectors include music, film, technology, education, tourism, finance, intellectual property, media and the broader creative economy. Information on exhibition packages and applications is available through the event’s website.
Competitions
Applications are currently open for two competitions: the Moot Court Competition, which addresses legal, contractual and intellectual property issues affecting the music industry, and the Beat Battle, a competition for emerging and established music producers. The Film Scoring Competition will open on 22 June, requiring participants to compose an original score for a selected film. Competition guidelines, entry requirements and submission deadlines will be published on the event’s website.
Showcase Line-up
A total of 24 musicians have been selected for the Music Imbizo 2026 showcase programme. The line-up includes:
- Dr Buselaphi (South Africa)
- Umzulu Phaqa
- Lioness (Namibian rapper)
- ¡AC! (Kenyan act)
- Agga Nyabinde (Zimbabwean musician)
- Aliddeki Brian (Ugandan artist)
among others. The showcase programme is designed to provide performers with exposure to music industry professionals, festival organisers, media representatives and potential collaborators.
Film Festival
The Music Imbizo Film Festival will run alongside the conference, featuring films that explore music, culture, identity and creativity. The programme includes the South African documentary SquashBox, the music-focused documentary AFROZIL, Brazilian film Free on Bail and the short film Where To From Here?. Organisers said the film festival aims to create a platform for stories about musicians, cultural communities and the wider systems that support the music industry. The complete film programme and screening schedule will be announced through the festival’s official channels.
