This year marks my first as Chairperson of the Foundation. I am honoured by the trust placed in me by the members and fellow Board members, and I remain committed to serving with integrity and accountability. A key part of my role in this first year has been to ensure that the Board operates efficiently and provides the right level of support to the directorate—championing efficiency, sustainability, continuous learning, global relevance, and even experimentation where appropriate. I believe this leadership is essential as the organisation navigates a rapidly evolving sector.

The year under review has demonstrated the MIAF’s growing ability to adapt with speed and clarity during an important period of transition. The Board is encouraged by the organisation’s decisive shift towards a results-driven approach, particularly in adopting meaningful revenue alternatives that strengthen long-term sustainability. The progress made in expanding consultancy income and improving commercial performance across key programmes reflects a disciplined response to our changing funding environment.

I am proud to report that the MIAF has established strong partnerships with key institutions during the year under review. Collaborations with the African Union Commission (AUC), the World Bank Group (WBG) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) of South Africa represent important steps towards deepening the Foundation’s impact. These relationships reinforce the organisation’s credibility and position the Foundation to play an increasingly strategic role in the development of Africa’s creative economy.

From a governance perspective, this has been a strong year. As the Board, we are encouraged by the commitment, hard work and professionalism demonstrated by the Executive Director and his team in advancing the organisation’s long-term strategy. The Board also acknowledges the valuable work of our new advisory committees, which were appointed with revised terms of reference to provide focused support to the Foundation. The Membership and Fundraising Committee and the HR and Risk Management Committee have both played a critical role in ensuring that strategic decisions continue to be guided by sound oversight, risk awareness and the organisation’s broader sustainability goals.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our appreciation to the directorate, committee members, jury members, partners and members for their continued dedication. I am confident that with your support, the Foundation moves into the coming year with a clear direction, strengthened systems and a renewed commitment to excellence.

Marcus Gora
Chairperson
Music In Africa Foundation