SA: Amapiano Africa Summit returns to Constitution Hill from 26 to 27 June

In partnership with the renowned Basha Uhuru Freedom Festival, this year’s edition aims to elevate the fastest-growing sound on the continent, bringing together leading voices in the music and creative industries for two days of dialogue, celebration and vision-building. The summit will explore amapiano’s cultural impact, commercial potential, and global expansion, while spotlighting issues such as artist wellness, gender inclusivity, and youth empowerment.

Curated by Thulani Maduse, popularly known as Thulani Way, the summit will feature a range of activities including panel discussions, live performances, masterclasses, a gala dinner, and an after-party.

Among the confirmed speakers are Shakes Mashaba, Lebogang Maile, Sthembile Ndaba, Dichaba Phaletse, and Victor Vele, who are respected for their contributions to music, business, and cultural development.

“My team and I have been working hard to grow the summit year on year,” Maduse said. “Our mission remains clear: to empower the amapiano movement and provide a platform that honours the genre’s impact. This year will be bigger and better, as we gear up for the Amapiano Africa Awards later in the year.”

More than just a celebration of sound, the summit will address pressing industry topics such as: Amapiano’s global pathway and cultural preservation, Monetisation and branding in the digital age, Building sustainable creative ecosystems, Amplifying female voices and Mentorship and upskilling the next generation.

Powered by Basha Uhuru

This year’s summit is part of the Basha Uhuru Freedom Festival’s Creative Conference, a flagship event that honours the legacy of the 1976 Soweto Uprising while championing freedom of expression and creative innovation among today’s youth. Known for blending music, art, tech, and ideas, Basha Uhuru provides a powerful platform for the summit’s bold vision.

“Basha is proud to host the Amapiano Africa Summit once again,” the organisers said. “This platform is vital not only for celebrating a cultural phenomenon, but for shaping a sustainable future for African music and its creative workforce.”

The third day of the festival, 28 June, will see Basha Uhuru in full swing, with performances, exhibitions and interactive experiences taking over Constitution Hill.

Tickets to the summit are available here. Find more about the event here and here.