Billboard has partnered with Global Venture Partners, a Dubai-based venture capital firm focused on fostering economic growth across Africa and the Middle East, to launch Billboard Africa.

Billboard editorial director Hannah Karp first announced the news at our inaugural Global Power Players event at Shoreditch House in east London Wednesday night (June 4), while introducing incoming Billboard Africa editor Nkosiyati “Yati” Khumalo, who presented Tems with the Diamond Award.

“At Billboard, we are committed to amplifying the voices of exceptional artists and sharing the stories that shape the global music landscape,” said Mike Van, CEO of Billboard. “Billboard Africa is a pivotal step in this journey, as African music has evolved into a dynamic force with a rich cultural heritage and an undeniable impact on the world. This new platform enables us to create meaningful opportunities for African artists to connect with a global audience, elevating their talent to unprecedented levels.”

Billboard Africa will be the leading hub for African music and culture featuring editorial content, charts, breaking news, videos, interviews and exclusive events, uniting artists and fans in a global celebration of the unique sounds coming out of the continent. Billboard‘s expansion in Africa aims to deliver both cultural and economic impact, recognizing the top artists, songs and albums from the continent while driving growth within the local music economy.

“Our investment in Billboard Africa is not just about creating a new platform; it’s about recognizing and amplifying the untapped potential of the African music industry,” said Brandon Martin, CEO of Global Venture Partners. “Africa has long been a cultural powerhouse, with music at the heart of that influence. Through Billboard Africa, we’re not only raising visibility for artists but laying the groundwork for an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth. We hope this venture encourages more members of the African diaspora to see the incredible opportunities on the continent and invest in its future. By working together, we can build a vibrant ecosystem where African talent thrives, strengthens local economies and reaches every corner of the globe.”