The music imbizo is making a comeback

The Music Imbizo 2025 returns to the Durban ICC from 26–30 August, under the theme “At the Root of Innovation is Culture, Creativity and the Power of IP”, and with a dynamic roster of keynote speakers, backed by a powerful coalition of strategic sponsors and partners committed to advancing Africa’s creative economy.

Opening the conference with an authoritative government perspective, Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Bertha Peace Mabe, will deliver the first keynote. Mabe, a seasoned Member of Parliament since 2009 and appointed Deputy Minister in July 2024, holds BA and Honours degrees in Public Administration from the University of Pretoria. Her address will examine national strategies that strengthen cultural industries and leverage intellectual property for economic development.

On Wednesday, Nomfundo Xaluva-Dyantyis, a multi-award-winning jazz vocalist, composer, and academic, will lead a keynote dialogue with Vuyisile Mshudulu of the City of Johannesburg. Holding a Master’s in Jazz from UCT and an EMBA from Henley Business School, Xaluva lectures at UCT and has released two acclaimed albums under Universal Music. Her keynote will offer insight into the role of culture and innovation in shaping artistic and business futures.

Thursday features a continental perspective with Brahim El Maned, Director of Visa for Music in Morocco, speaking on “Language as a Tool for Preserving Culture.” Known for his work in African music diplomacy, El Maned will explore the role of language and music in preserving identity and enabling cultural exchange.

Friday’s closing keynote belongs to Ntsika Tyatya, Creative Director of MaXhosa Africa, who will deliver a compelling session titled “Cultural Innovation: The Future of African Creativity.” Tyatya will discuss the intersection of fashion, music, and design as tools to elevate African narratives and protect intellectual property on a global scale.

This year, SABC 1 powers The Music Imbizo 2025, bringing one of South Africa’s most influential media platforms to the heart of the conference. With its unrivalled reach across youth and emerging creative markets, SABC 1 will amplify the event’s message through broadcast, digital storytelling, and coverage that extends far beyond the venue.

Durban Tourism returns as the official sponsor, reaffirming the city’s position as a continental hub for cultural dialogue and economic development through the arts. Their longstanding support underscores Durban’s strategic investment in music, tourism, and the broader creative industries.

Independent Media, one of the largest media houses in Southern Africa, joins as a key editorial partner, ensuring The Music Imbizo 2025 receives strong national exposure across digital, print, and broadcast platforms. Their coverage will include speaker features, opinion pieces, and real-time updates throughout the event.

The Music Imbizo 2025 is also proud to welcome Brand South Africa as a strategic content partner. As South Africa leads the G20 Presidency, Brand South Africa will profile its acclaimed G20 campaign at strategic moments during the conference, including high-visibility AV placements. A curated panel discussion featuring the Brand South Africa CEO will explore how film serves as a catalyst for nation branding and economic growth, positioned within The Music Imbizo’s Music-Focused Film Festival. 

Additional partners include CAPASSO, SAMRO, TikTok, Bathu, and NoOx Worldwide (Italy) — each contributing valuable insights and activation support in rights management, creator monetisation, digital engagement, brand building, and international collaboration.

Over five days, The Music Imbizo 2025 will host over 60 speakers, 25 artists, 60 exhibitors, curated film screenings, workshops, speed meetings, and competitions such as the Beat Battle, Hackathon, Moot Court, Film Scoring Challenge, and Dance Music Showcase. Tickets are available online via Webtickets and at Pick n Pay outlets nationwide.