With adjudication process commencing this month, organisers of All Africa Music Awards have announced the appointment of new music experts to join its International Jury panel. The three new members are Marwane Fachane, who represents Morocco (Northern Africa), Asma Lucy Ilado from Kenya (Eastern Africa), and MessieMboukou sitting in for Congo Brazzaville (Central Africa). Their appointment is in line with the operational model of the jury structure as part of AFRIMA’s effort to make sure that the judging process remains professional, fair, and reflects Africa’s rich cultural diversity.

Fachabe, Ilado, and Mboukou bring years of experience in music, culture, and youth development to their role on the 14-man AFRIMA Jury. They will help choose the best musical talents from across Africa and the diaspora, ensuring that only the most deserving artists are nominated and awarded.

Executive Director of Hiba Foundation, Fachane, leads the people and strategy at one of Morocco’s top creative and cultural organisations. The foundation supports young people in the creative industry and helps them build careers in music, film, and other art forms.

Speaking on his new role, Fachane said, “I’m honoured to be part of AFRIMA’s jury. This platform is key to celebrating African talent and showing the world what our continent can offer.”

As a well-known executive in music communication, events, and digital media, young and vibrant Mboukou has supported several African artistes in the diaspora and on the continent through his France-based consulting agency. He has also helped organise over 1,000 events around the world.

Reacting to his appointment, Mboukou said, “it’s a privilege to be part of the jury. I believe Africa’s greatest wealth is in its youth and culture. If we support young talent and work together, the future will be even brighter.”

In her remarks upon her appointment, respected journalist and cultural development consultant, Ilado, who also labels herself as a culture advocate paid glowing tributes to former juror and fellow Kenyan, the legendary producer Tabu Osusa. She also paid tributes to the late Ghanaian music executive, Rab Bakari, who served from 2014 to 2016.

Ilado said she looks forward excitedly to discovering new voices and talents across the continent during the adjudication process of what has become the continent’s biggest music event.

“Although African music is full of energy and promise, more investment is still needed in key areas like distribution, production, training, and rights protection. Platform like this is important, not just for recognising excellence, but for building bridges between regions and helping the industry grow stronger,” she said.

While receiving the new jurors on board, the Chief Experience Officer (CXO) of AFRIMA, Adenrele Niyi, said: “We are delighted to welcome Lucy, Marwane, and Messie. We’ve already started on a warm and respectful note, and I’m optimistic about the energy and depth they’ll bring to the team. Each of them is a respected music professional with solid experience in their respective regions, and their inclusion this year adds a refreshing layer of perspective to our already diverse and highly skilled jury.”