Three African artists have been named among the distinguished laureates of the 2025 Aga Khan Music Awards, an international platform honoring musicians who safeguard cultural heritage through performance, innovation, and education.

This year’s honorees — Mali’s Miriam Bagayoko, Morocco’s Hamid El Kasri, and Senegal’s Senny Camara — were celebrated for their unique artistic mastery and their work in preserving the continent’s deep musical roots.

Celebrating Africa’s Living Musical Legacy

Miriam Bagayoko, a rising star of Malian traditional music, was recognized for her revitalization of Sahelian musical traditions, blending ancient rhythms with modern arrangements while centering women’s voices in community music-making.

Hamid El Kasri, one of Morocco’s most respected Gnawa masters, earned praise for his lifelong dedication to preserving the Gnawa spiritual repertoire and bringing its trance-based rhythms to global audiences.

Senegalese kora player and vocalist Senny Camara was honored for her innovative performance style and for expanding the role of women within West African string traditions, historically dominated by male griots.

A Global Stage for Authentic African Sound

The Aga Khan Music Awards highlight musicians whose work strengthens cultural identity while fostering dialogue across borders. This year’s ceremony placed African musical heritage front and center, acknowledging its global influence and timeless resonance.

“African music is a universal language of resilience,” said one award presenter. “These artists carry forward traditions that continue to inspire, educate, and unite communities worldwide.”

Honoring Heritage, Inspiring the Future

Beyond performance, the laureates were recognized for mentorship, community engagement, and dedication to transmitting knowledge to younger generations. Their work aligns with the Awards’ mission to safeguard intangible cultural heritage amid rapid modernization.

For many observers, the strong African presence among the 2025 winners reflects a growing global appreciation for the continent’s cultural contributions and artistic leadership.

“These awards affirm the power and relevance of African musical heritage in shaping the world’s cultural future,” said a cultural historian attending the ceremony.

The Aga Khan Music Awards will continue with workshops, collaborations, and performances throughout the week — offering a global spotlight for the richness and diversity of Africa’s musical traditions.