Iconic figure in the Maskandi genre, Ihashi Elimhlophe and leader in the African hip-hop scene, Nadia Nakai. Picture: Instagram/nadianakai
Renowned South African artists Nadia Nakai and Ihashi Elimhlophe have been announced as the official ambassadors of the Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition 2024.
The Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition is Africa’s premier music industry event, dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth within the African music landscape.
Nadia Nakai, a leader in the African hip-hop scene, and Ihashi Elimhlophe, an iconic figure in the Maskandi genre, were chosen as ambassadors due to their tremendous contributions to the African music landscape.
Their appointment as ambassadors for Moshito 2024 reflects the festival’s dedication to showcasing the diverse spectrum of African music, bridging tradition and modernity in a way that resonates both locally and internationally.
Nadia Nakai shared that the appointment as ambassador signifies an opportunity to inspire the next generation of African talent.
“It’s an honour to be part of Moshito 2024 as an ambassador. This platform is about pushing boundaries and giving African artists the space to explore new opportunities while staying true to our roots.
“I’m excited to be part of conversations that will help guide the future of African music.”
Ihashi Elimhlophe emphasised the role of Moshito in preserving African music legacy: “For me, Moshito is not just a conference — it’s a movement.
“It’s about ensuring that the stories and sounds of Africa continue to thrive, even as we embrace new technologies and trends. I’m proud to be an ambassador for this event, which celebrates and preserves our rich cultural heritage.”
Chairperson of the Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition, Stanley Khoza added that both musicians represent the blend of modernity and tradition that is the essence of African music today.
The rise of streaming platforms, artificial intelligence in music production, and online music monetisation has created both new opportunities and challenges for African artists.
The conference will address these issues through panel discussions, workshops, and performances led by experts in the field.
“Digital transformation has opened up new possibilities for artists to reach global audiences, but it also presents challenges in terms of ownership, monetisation, and maintaining cultural authenticity.
“Moshito 2024 will provide a platform for these critical conversations, helping artists and industry professionals navigate the evolving music landscape while staying connected to their roots,” added Khoza.
The Moshito Music Conference and Exhibition 2024 will be a dynamic four-day event. The final day will be a vibrant celebration of African music, with the Moshito Street Festival taking place at Constitution Hill.
IOL Entertainment