ARMC unveils 2026 programme, global line-up and new partnerships

The announcement also confirms a partnership with Johnnie Walker AfroExchange, alongside Jaecoo, which joins as the event’s official mobility partner.

ARMC by Night programme

ARMC by Night will feature a mix of live and electronic music performances, with organisers describing the 2026 edition as the most internationally diverse to date.

South African artists on the line-up include Ney The Bae, Mörda, Rouge and Brother Kupa. International acts include Germany’s Henrik Schwarz, Uganda’s Vini Mercy, and Australia-based musicians Milan Ring and Dobby.

The night programme will take place at Constitution Hill’s Women’s Prison, which will be converted into a live performance and cultural space. The ARMC by Night programme is presented in partnership with Johnnie Walker AfroExchange, described as a cultural platform focused on supporting creative industries in Africa.

According to Diageo South, West and Central Africa’s Group Head of Culture, Influencers and Advocacy, Ifeoma Agu, cultural progress depends on long-term collaboration between brands and creative communities.

“Real cultural progress happens when purpose meets collaboration, when brands don’t just show up, but build with communities in meaningful and enduring ways,” she said.

The conference production is delivered in collaboration with Lucid Sets, which has worked across festivals and cultural events. The ARMC by Day programme will feature panels, workshops, showcases and exhibitions involving artists, industry executives and technology companies.

Key elements include launch of the Sound Bridges Access Fund in partnership with the Embassy of Germany Pretoria, Sessions with TikTok, Meta and RiSA, a keynote conversation with Elaine in partnership with SAMRO, an Australian music market spotlight, a Turnkey Music & Multimedia demo lab, AI-focused sessions developed with Paradise Worldwide and Fraunhofer IDMT and networking sessions and panel discussions featuring industry figures including Kim Jayde and Filah Lah Lah.

ARMC founder SJ Nicholson said the conference is designed to connect artists, markets and ideas across borders while supporting long-term development in African music. A pre-conference networking event will take place on 21 May in partnership with the Music Business Network, bringing together artists, delegates and industry stakeholders.

Tickets for the conference are currently on sale through the platform Quicket, with general access priced at R150 and VIP tickets at R500. Further programme details are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.