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ACCES brings African music industry to Johannesburg

 

Mbulelo Mpofu in Johannesburg, South Africa

THE Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF)’s Music In Africa Conference for Collaborations, Exchange and Showcases (ACCES), is underway in Johannesburg, South with a host of conferences, showcases and exhibitions lined-up.

It will run till 31 October.

Recognised as one of Africa’s leading music industry trade events, ACCES brings together music professionals from across the continent and beyond for a programme of conferences, networking opportunities and live performances.

The Campus, a venue operated by The Forum, is set host the daytime conference programme, including panel discussions, keynote interviews, workshops, presentations, exhibitions, pitch sessions and question-and-answer sessions.

Music In Africa Foundation Executive Director Eddie Hatitye said the choice of venue reflected the continued growth of ACCES and the organisers’ ambition to improve the delegate experience.

Keith Kuhudzai speaks on what he expects at this year’s ACCES event in Johannesburg, South Africa

“The Campus provides the scale, facilities and flexibility required for an event of ACCES’ calibre. As the conference continues to evolve, we are committed to improving every aspect of the delegate experience, and this venue offers an ideal environment for meaningful discussions, networking and knowledge exchange. We look forward to welcoming music professionals from across Africa and beyond to Johannesburg for what promises to be one of our strongest editions yet.”

Zimbabwe is well represented at the event with Keith Kuhudzai, Walter Wanyanya, Hardin H1 Gurupira who is Star FM’s Head of Music and Production, and Usher Nyambi.

In an interview, Kuhudzai who is set to moderate a fireside chat titled, “No borders, no shortcuts: communities, businesses & global careers” said he is excited to be participating.

“I’m excited to be here. I can’t wait to get started. There’s a lot to dissect in the music business,” he said.

Organised annually by the Music In Africa Foundation, ACCES serves as a platform for collaboration, business development and professional exchange within the African and international music industries. The event combines a daytime conference programme with evening showcase performances featuring emerging and established artists from across the continent and the diaspora.

Zimbabwean artiste, Sylent Nqo performed yesterday (Wednesday) while his counterpart, Mary Anibal is set to perform at ACCES’ industry nights today. – Follow on X@MbuleloMpofu