The Recording Academy renowned for Grammy Awards has embarked on a major expansion into Africa and the Middle East.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide music creators in these regions with essential support, resources, and opportunities, aligning with the Academy’s mission to champion artists worldwide. Over the past two years, the Recording Academy’s leaders have actively engaged with Ministries of Culture and key stakeholders across Africa and the Middle East. The Academy has forged collaborations and agreements with various entities through listening sessions, briefings, tours, and direct insights from governmental ministries and local music creators.
In Kenya, the Ministry of Sports, led by Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, has partnered with the Recording Academy, paving the way for the country’s vibrant music scene to benefit from enhanced support and training opportunities. Additionally, the Academy has collaborated with the Ministries of Culture in Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, as well as the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) have also been signed with Ghana and the Ivory Coast. The Recording Academy’s expansion efforts aim to provide a platform for artists at all career levels, advocating for their rights and visibility.
Through its online learning platform, GRAMMY GO, the Academy will tailor educational programs to meet the specific needs of music creators in Africa and the Middle East. Furthermore, the Academy will produce exciting original content celebrating the rich musical heritage and emerging scenes of these regions. Additionally, the Academy will advocate for robust intellectual property legislation and protections for music creators. Finally, collaborations with partners will strengthen the creative economy in Africa and the Middle East, fueling the growth and sustainability of the music industry.
The Recording Academy will publish research reports, shedding light on the music markets in Africa and the Middle East. These insights will inform policy decisions and strategies for artists.
