The music imbizo is making a comeback

The Music Imbizo 2025 returns to the Durban ICC from 26–30 August, under the theme “At the Root of Innovation is Culture, Creativity and the Power of IP”, and today reveals its dynamic roster of keynote speakers, backed by a powerful coalition of strategic sponsors and partners committed to advancing Africa’s creative economy.

Opening the conference with an authoritative government perspective, Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Bertha Peace Mabe, will deliver the first keynote. Mabe, a seasoned Member of Parliament since 2009 and appointed Deputy Minister in July 2024, holds BA and Honours degrees in Public Administration from the University of Pretoria. Her address will examine national strategies that strengthen cultural industries and leverage intellectual property for economic development.

On Wednesday, Nomfundo Xaluva-Dyantyis, a multi-award-winning jazz vocalist, composer, and academic, will lead a keynote dialogue with Vuyisile Mshudulu of the City of Johannesburg. Holding a Master’s in Jazz from UCT and an EMBA from Henley Business School, Xaluva lectures at UCT and has released two acclaimed albums under Universal Music. Her keynote will offer insight into the role of culture and innovation in shaping artistic and business futures.

Thursday features a continental perspective with Brahim El Maned, Director of Visa for Music in Morocco, speaking on “Language as a Tool for Preserving Culture.” Known for his work in African music diplomacy, El Maned will explore the role of language and music in preserving identity and enabling cultural exchange.

Friday’s closing keynote belongs to Ntsika Tyatya, Creative Director of MaXhosa Africa, who will deliver a compelling session titled “Cultural Innovation: The Future of African Creativity.” Tyatya will discuss the intersection of fashion, music, and design as tools to elevate African narratives and protect intellectual property on a global scale.

This year, SABC 1 powers The Music Imbizo 2025, bringing one of South Africa’s most influential media platforms to the heart of the conference. With its unrivalled reach across youth and emerging creative markets, SABC 1 will amplify the event’s message through broadcast, digital storytelling, and coverage that extends far beyond the venue.

Durban Tourism returns as the official sponsor, reaffirming the city’s position as a continental hub for cultural dialogue and economic development through the arts. Their longstanding support underscores Durban’s strategic investment in music, tourism, and the broader creative industries.

Independent Media, one of the largest media houses in Southern Africa, joins as a key editorial partner, ensuring The Music Imbizo 2025 receives strong national exposure across digital, print, and broadcast platforms. Their coverage will include speaker features, opinion pieces, and real-time updates throughout the event.

The Music Imbizo 2025 is also proud to welcome Brand South Africa as a strategic content partner. As South Africa leads the G20 Presidency, Brand South Africa will profile its acclaimed G20 campaign at strategic moments during the conference, including high-visibility AV placements. A curated panel discussion featuring the Brand South Africa CEO will explore how film serves as a catalyst for nation branding and economic growth, positioned within The Music Imbizo’s Music-Focused Film Festival. 

Additional partners include CAPASSO, SAMRO, TikTok, Bathu, and NoOx Worldwide (Italy) — each contributing valuable insights and activation support in rights management, creator monetisation, digital engagement, brand building, and international collaboration.

Over five days, The Music Imbizo 2025 will host over 60 speakers, 25 artists, 60 exhibitors, curated film screenings, workshops, speed meetings, and competitions such as the Beat Battle, Hackathon, Moot Court, Film Scoring Challenge, and Dance Music Showcase. Tickets are available online via Webtickets and at Pick n Pay outlets nationwide.

The Music Imbizo

The Music Imbizo is one of the most important music business gatherings on the continent, held annually in Durban, South Africa. Established in 2009, the conference brings together musicians, industry professionals, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across the continent and the globe. With a strong focus on education, collaboration, and innovation, The Music Imbizo provides a platform for dialogue on critical issues such as intellectual property, artist development, technology, and the future of the African music industry. Through keynote sessions, workshops, showcases, film screenings, and networking opportunities, The Music Imbizo empowers creatives and drives the growth of the cultural economy in Africa.

SABC 1

SABC 1 is South Africa’s leading free-to-air television channel, renowned for its dynamic, youth-focused programming. As part of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), the channel plays a vital role in shaping pop culture, amplifying local voices, and promoting homegrown music and talent. SABC 1 has a strong national reach and continues to serve as a key platform for social discourse, entertainment, and creative development.

Durban Tourism

Durban Tourism is the official destination marketing arm of the eThekwini Municipality. With a focus on promoting Durban as a vibrant hub for business and leisure, Durban Tourism actively supports initiatives that drive cultural tourism, creative industries, and international engagement. Through strategic partnerships and event sponsorships, it positions Durban as one of Africa’s top destinations for arts, culture, and entertainment.

Brand South Africa

Brand South Africa is the official marketing agency of the South African government, tasked with building and managing the country’s national reputation. Established in 2002, the agency promotes South Africa as a globally competitive destination for investment, tourism, and trade, while fostering national pride and social cohesion domestically. Through strategic campaigns, partnerships, and thought leadership, Brand South Africa works to shape a compelling narrative that reflects the nation’s values, potential, and innovation. Its mission is to position South Africa as a leading African nation and a key global player — particularly during milestone moments such as the country’s 2025 G20 Presidency.

CAPASSO

The Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (CAPASSO) is a mechanical rights licensing agency based in South Africa. It ensures that music creators are paid royalties when their work is reproduced digitally or physically. CAPASSO plays a critical role in supporting the rights and livelihoods of composers and publishers in the fast-evolving digital music ecosystem, especially across streaming platforms and digital downloads.

SAMRO

The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) is a collective management organisation that licenses music use and ensures the fair payment of royalties to composers, authors, and publishers. With decades of experience, SAMRO protects intellectual property rights and advocates for a thriving and equitable music industry in South Africa and beyond.

Bathu

Bathu is a proudly South African sneaker brand that celebrates township culture, entrepreneurship, and African identity. Founded by Theo Baloyi, Bathu has grown into one of the continent’s most recognised lifestyle brands. With a mission to inspire and empower, Bathu blends design innovation with local storytelling, making it a cultural icon in South Africa’s fashion and youth scenes.

NoOx Worldwide (Italy)

NoOx Worldwide is an Italy-based cultural agency specialising in Afro-European artistic collaboration and global creative exchange. With a focus on music, festivals, and cross-cultural programming, NoOx connects African artists with European audiences and platforms. The agency actively supports initiatives that elevate African voices and promote intercultural dialogue through the arts.