Benin singer OPA wins 2026 RFI African music prize

The prize, which aims to support emerging African artists, carries a €10 000 (about $11 500) award for career development, a concert broadcast on RFI, and a tour of French Institutes across Africa.

OPA competed against nine other finalists from across the continent, including Madagascar, Senegal, Congo-Brazzaville, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Comoros, Mauritius, and Cameroon.

“This represents a culmination in the sense that my goal has always been to export the music of my country,” OPA told RFI following the announcement. “It truly validates the work I've done over all these years.”

The winner was revealed live on air by jury president and Franco-Senegalese rap star MC Solaar, alongside last year’s winner, Queen Rima from Guinea Conakry.

Born in Bohicon, southern Benin, OPA sings in Fon, French and English, drawing on African roots to create a contemporary sound influenced by artists such as Angélique Kidjo, Fela Kuti, and the legendary group Poly-Rythmo. He first gained attention with his single Yelian, attracting mentorship from prominent Beninese professionals including Dibi Dobo, Jay Killah, Amir El Presidente and Jupiter, as well as praise from international artists like Locko and Pit Bacardi.

His career gained momentum with the 2024 release of his four-track EP Goslow, followed in 2025 by Afrocharm, a six-track project blending emotion, seduction and contemporary Afro-cultural identity. The single ‘Che Che Che’ earned him the Revelation of the Year award at the Benin Top 10 Awards, the country’s leading music ceremony.

OPA’s live performances have extended his reach beyond Benin. After appearing at the We Love Eya Festival in Cotonou, he performed at the Hennessy Studio End of the Year event in Douala, marking his first international show.

Accompanied by the Vip Tribe label, OPA is widely regarded as one of Benin’s most promising emerging artists. His music reflects a clear ambition to merge African heritage with global influences while maintaining its cultural authenticity.

The RFI Discovery Prize win positions OPA for further international recognition, providing resources and exposure to expand his career across Africa and beyond.