DopeNation, Eno Barony among African music stars honoured at AFRIMMA 2026

Ghanaian stars Eno Barony and DopeNation were among the notable winners at the 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA), as Afrobeats and its growing global influence took centre stage in Dallas, Texas, on Sept. 12. Eno Barony won Best Female Rapper of the Year, while DopeNation was named Best Group of the Year, giving Ghana two major wins at the ceremony’s return after a two-year hiatus.

The night’s biggest talking point came in the Song of the Year category, where Nigerian singer BNXN and producer Sarz took the prize for “Back Outside”. The record beat a competitive field that included Davido’s “With You” featuring Omah Lay, Diamond Platnumz’s “Joy” and Ghanaian singer Moliy’s “Shake It to the Max” featuring Shenseea and Skillibeng. The result highlighted the growing influence of producer-led collaborations in an Afrobeats scene increasingly defined by cross-border records.

Davido still had a strong showing, with his album 5ive winning Album of the Year ahead of projects from Black Sherif, Omah Lay, Asake, Burna Boy and Tyla. Diamond Platnumz also picked up Best Collaboration for “Joy” with Juma Jux, while Nigerian director Pink won Best Video Director. Fally Ipupa of the Democratic Republic of Congo received the Crossing Boundaries With Music Award, reflecting the increasingly international reach of African music.