Africa Rising Music Conference 2026 | ARMC Returns to Constitution Hill – TRESOR, Brenda Mtambo & Global Expansion
Africa Rising Music Conference 2026
As African music continues its rapid ascent on the global stage, the Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) returns to Constitution Hill in Johannesburg on 22 and 23 May 2026 with a bold, future-focused agenda, bringing together influential voices, unlocking international markets and tackling some of the industry’s most urgent conversations.
Now in its sixth year, ARMC is fast becoming a critical meeting point between Africa and the global music business. This year’s edition signals a step-change in scale and ambition, anchored by a new strategic partnership with the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), expanded international participation, and the launch of their groundbreaking Community Access Pledge initiative aimed at reshaping who gets to be in the room.
Headline Voices Driving Global Conversation
Leading this year’s speaker lineup is Grammy Recording Academy-recognised artist and producer TRESOR, whose cross-continental success continues to position African talent within global music conversations. He is joined by Janesh and Hitboss SA, key architects behind the fast-emerging Lekompo sound, one of South Africa’s most exciting new genre exports.
Adding a critical human lens to the programme, acclaimed vocalist Brenda Mtambo will spotlight mental health in the music industry, an often overlooked but increasingly urgent topic as the pressures of global success intensify.
Together, these voices create a compelling narrative: from the rise of new African genres and global chart breakthroughs to the realities behind the spotlight.
Opening Access: Who Gets a Seat at the Table
In a move set to resonate across the industry, ARMC introduces its Community Access Pledge, a direct response to long-standing barriers facing emerging creatives.
Delivered in partnership with Bridges for Music, shesaid.so South Africa, The Cradle Crew (CoSemo Collective) and BTCH$ LUV, the initiative invites brands and organisations to pledge tickets that are redistributed to young artists, entrepreneurs and future industry leaders.
At a time when access, representation and inclusion are dominating global industry conversations, ARMC is positioning itself not just as a conference, but as an active driver of change.
From Johannesburg to the World: Expanding Global Ties
ARMC 2026 also marks a significant international expansion, with Australia and Uganda announced as official focus countries. Curated delegations will bring artists, executives and cultural leaders into direct dialogue with the African market.
The Ugandan delegation, led by the Amplify Ugandan Music Expo (AUMEX), builds on strong existing ties, while Australia’s inclusion signals a growing exchange between Africa and new global territories.
Further strengthening this international presence, delegates supported by the PRS Foundation (UK) will join participants from Germany, the United States, Sweden, Switzerland and more, reinforcing ARMC’s role as a gateway between Africa and the global music economy.
A Conference at the Centre of a Cultural Shift
With African music increasingly shaping global pop culture, ARMC arrives at a pivotal moment, offering media access to the artists, executives and conversations defining what comes next.
From the business of music rights and global distribution to emerging sounds and artist wellbeing, ARMC 2026 provides a rich platform for interviews, features and industry insight.
Ticket Information
Phase 2 tickets are now available via Quicket, with further programme announcements to follow.
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| General Conference Ticket | R150 |
| VIP Ticket | R500 |
Event Details Summary
- Event: Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC) 2026
- Dates: 22–23 May 2026
- Venue: Constitution Hill, Johannesburg
- Strategic Partner: Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO)
- Headline Speakers: TRESOR, Brenda Mtambo, Janesh, Hitboss SA
- Focus Countries: Australia & Uganda
- International Participants: Germany, USA, Sweden, Switzerland, UK (PRS Foundation)
- Community Partners: Bridges for Music, shesaid.so SA, The Cradle Crew, BTCH$ LUV
- Tickets: General R150 | VIP R500 (via Quicket)
Africa Rising Music Conference 2026 – 22-23 May at Constitution Hill, Johannesburg. Where African music meets the global stage.
