Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) is returning to Johannesburg on 22 and 23 May 2026 for its sixth edition, with Australia and Uganda confirmed as official focus countries for the first time and the PRS Foundation back as a funder for the third consecutive time.
The conference has established itself as the continent’s leading platform for cross-continental music industry dialogue, and 2026 looks set to be its most globally connected edition yet. Delegations are confirmed from the UK (supported by the PRS Foundation), the United States, Germany, Sweden and Australia, joining a host of African voices to shape the programme at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg.
Uganda’s participation is led by the Amplify Ugandan Music Expo (AUMEX), building on relationships formed at previous ARMC editions. Australia’s inclusion marks a significant new chapter for the female-led conference, extending its reach beyond Africa and its traditional European and American partnerships.
Newly announced headline speakers include Grammy Recording Academy-inducted producer and award-winning artist TRESOR, alongside Janesh, Hitboss SA and Brenda Mtambo. Together they represent a cross-section of creators and industry leaders shaping contemporary African music, from songwriting and production through to cultural exchange with global audiences. Further speaker and programme announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
This year also sees a new strategic partnership with the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), adding to ARMC’s growing network of institutional collaborators. Other key partners include Paradise Worldwide and Mint Digital Services, who continue to support the development of independent creative talent and help bridge local scenes to international markets.
Alongside the core conference programme, ARMC has launched a Community Access Pledge in partnership with Bridges for Music, shesaid.so South Africa, The Cradle Crew and BTCH$ LUV. The initiative enables brands and organisations to donate tickets distributed to aspiring artists and entrepreneurs who would otherwise be unable to attend.
Phase 2 tickets for ARMC 2026 are on sale now via Quicket. The conference takes place at Constitution Hill, Johannesburg, on 22 and 23 May 2026.
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