AFRIMMA is back after a two-year break, and Davido has taken an early lead.
The Nigerian superstar picked up five nominations, the highest number on the 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards list, putting him at the front of a race packed with some of Africa’s biggest names.
His album, “5ive,” earned a nomination for Album of the Year, while his collaboration with Omah Lay, “With You,” secured spots in both Song of the Year and Best Collaboration.
Davido also earned nominations for Artist of the Year, Best Male West Africa and the Crossing Boundaries With Music Award.
But as Davido leads the continental race, Uganda has also secured a notable presence on this year’s list.
Uganda Lands Nine Representatives
Joshua Baraka leads Uganda’s tally with two nominations.
He will compete alongside Eddy Kenzo in the Best Male East Africa category and also earned a place in the AFRIMMA Fans’ Choice Award.
Winnie Nwagi will compete for Best Female East Africa, while 207 earned a nomination for Music Producer of the Year.
Uganda’s representation, however, goes beyond the music categories.
Masaka Dance Kids and Ghetto Kids will battle for Best African Dancer, Patrick Salvador Idringi enters the race for Best Comedian, and Bebe Cool earned recognition in the AFRIMMA Timeless Impact Award category.
Educate Uganda rounds out the country’s representation with a nomination for the Community Impact Award.
From Music to Community Work
The nominations give Uganda representation across several sides of African entertainment and culture.
Artists, producers and dancers dominate much of the list, but the inclusion of Salvador and Educate Uganda takes the country’s presence beyond the traditional music categories.
Joshua Baraka, meanwhile, stands as Uganda’s most-nominated representative this year with two chances to win.
The Race Now Moves to the Fans
Davido may lead the overall nominations, but the competition remains tight.
Burna Boy, Diamond Platnumz, and Black Sherif each picked up four nominations, setting the stage for a competitive return for AFRIMMA.
The awards and music festival will take place on September 12 in Dallas, Texas.
Before then, the nominees will look to their supporters, as voting is now open.