Africa Rising Music Conference announces Australia focus and PRS Foundation backing for its most internationally connected edition yet
Tickets
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Dates: 22nd – 23rd May, 2026
Uganda joins as second focus country as ARMC 2026 draws delegations from the UK, US, Germany, Sweden and Australia ahead of its Johannesburg return this May
Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) returns to Johannesburg on 22nd & 23rd May 2026 for its sixth edition, now backed by the PRS Foundation for the third time and welcoming Australia and Uganda as official focus countries for the first time. Bringing together artists, executives and cultural leaders from across Africa, Europe, the Americas and beyond, ARMC has established itself as the continent’s leading platform for cross-continental music industry dialogue.
A major focus for 2026 is the introduction of Australia and Uganda as official focus countries and bringing curated delegations of artists, executives and cultural leaders into the programme. The Ugandan delegation, led by Amplify Ugandan Music Expo (AUMEX), builds on connections formed at previous editions, while Australia’s inclusion signals ARMC’s growing ties beyond the African continent. Additional delegates from the UK are supported by the PRS Foundation while more from Germany, the United States and Sweden further strengthen the conference’s global reach.
With a growing network of international partners, delegates and speakers, ARMC 2026 is a key platform for cross-continental collaboration that spotlights emerging scenes while connecting them to established global markets. This year sees new strategic partnerships including with the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) alongside expanded international participation.
The speaker programme reflects this international outlook, with newly announced headline names including Grammy‑Recording Academy‑inducted producer and award‑winning artist TRESOR, alongside Janesh, Hitboss SA and Brenda Mtambo. Together, they represent a cross-section of artists and industry leaders shaping contemporary African music while engaging with global audiences through songwriting, production and cultural exchange.
Alongside its core programme, ARMC has introduced a Community Access Pledge in partnership with Bridges for Music, shesaid.so South Africa, The Cradle Crew and BTCH$ LUV – enabling brands and organisations to donate tickets distributed to aspiring artists and entrepreneurs who would otherwise be unable to attend.
As African music continues to gain global prominence, ARMC positions itself at the centre of that momentum by bridging scenes, industries and cultures through dialogue, collaboration and live experience. Further speaker and programme announcements are expected in the coming weeks. Phase 2 tickets are on sale now via Quicket.
