ACCES

The Music In Africa Conference For Collaborations, Exchange And Showcases, or simply ACCES, is the ideal platform for music industry players from across the continent to exchange ideas, discover new talent and accelerate the shaping of the vibrant music sector on the continent.

ACCES is held in a different African city every year, attracting delegates from many countries. The event is spread over three days, offering a dynamic programme designed to benefit local participants and visiting delegates. The programme typically offers training workshops, panel discussions, presentations, live performances, networking sessions, exhibitions and visits to key music industry hubs in the host city.
Wherever it is held, ACCES presents opportunities for the local industry to showcase its musical works to a diverse audience while fostering business exchange and the creation of a strong network of music professionals on the continent.

The broader objectives of ACCES are:

•    To connect and promote exchange between music professionals from, or related to, Africa and its diaspora;
•    to facilitate the discovery of African music talent & new opportunities;
•    to provide reliable and useful information that promotes the African music sector and its operators;
•    to encourage the creation of content by Africans, about Africa or related to Africa and its diaspora;
•    to improve the distribution, accessibility and viability of African musical works;
•    to strengthen music networks and collaboration on the continent;
•    to encourage growth in the African music sector.

History

ACCES started in 2016 as a small feature on the Music In Africa Foundation’s AGM Plus programme. The AGM Plus was held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and attended by delegates from more than 15 countries. The keynote address was delivered by legendary Ethio-jazz musician Mulatu Astatke. In 2017 ACCES was launched as a fully-fledged international event, drawing participants from all over the world. The event was held in Dakar, Senegal. The keynote was delivered by legendery Senegalese musician Baaba Maal. In 2018 ACCES was held in Nairobi, Kenya. The keynote was delivered by Eric Wainaina. 

Language

The programme is implemented in English and French, with professional translation.

Registrations

Registrations for delegates, exhibitors and pitchers for ACCES 2020 are now open. African delegates register for free. Follow this link to register: www.musicinafrica.net/acces/register