The MAMAs are Back and Reimagined

After a four-year hiatus,ViacomCBS Networks Africa announced the return of MTV Africa Music Awards popularly known as the MAMAs.The award is expected to hold in Kampala, Uganda on February 20, 2021, and will feature new changes and surprises for lovers of African music.

At the virtual unveiling, the Senior Vice President and General Manager of the network Craig Paterson disclosed that the awards will hold virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that is yet to taper completely.

“The pandemic made industries to radically push the boundaries of creativity and innovation to survive. And I think that’s never been more relevant than with the MAMAs and the way it is reimagined.”

MondeTwala, also a SeniorVice President and General Manager of the network added that the power of the MAMAs“has always been its ability to inspire collaborations across borders”.

He explained that the awards require partnerships and its collaboration with the Ugandan government is an opportunity to showcase the diverse talents of the youths on the continent.

Being the first time the awards will be held in the East African country, Ugandan Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Godfrey Kiwanda expressed enthusiasm that the choice of Uganda as the venue of the awards will boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and showcase it as a beautiful destination for tourists.

Before the official announcement, the organisers caused a frenzy with the cryptic M that has the country’s independence monument. On social media, the excitement was in epic proportions as many sought to demystify the buzz behind the letter.

Only artistes who have released music from October 1, 2019, to October 1, 2020, are eligible to submit their works for review by the MAMAs Academy made up of independent judges.

Some of the changes listed by the organisers include new award categories such as the

Lockdown Digital Performances and the Generation Change Award dedicated to young people who are making an impact on society and their communities.