For the very first time, Trace, a renowned global hub for Afro-music that has been exporting African musical culture to the international stage for the past two decades, hosted a vibrant awards ceremony in Kigali on October 21, coinciding with its 20th anniversary. The event drew a star-studded crowd from around the world, including luminaries like Davido, Diamond Platnmuz, and Rema.

Representatives from across the African continent converged at the Trace Awards, showcasing the richness and diversity of Afrocentric music in various genres, from Afrobeat, Dancehall, and Hip Hop to Afro-pop, Mbalax, Amapiano, Zouk, Kizomba, Genge, Coupé Décalé, Bongo Flava, and rap, among others.

In 22 award categories, top-selling artists from over 30 countries in Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Europe, including Algeria, Angola, Brazil, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Comoros, DRC, France, French Guiana, Gabon, Ghana, and many more, went head-to-head.

Davido claimed the titles for Best Male and jointly won Best Collaboration with South Africa’s Musa Keys for their track “Unavailable.” Rema secured victory in the Global African Artist and Song of the Year categories with “Calm Down.”

Burna Boy’s “Love Damini” was awarded the Best Album, and Vivian Chidid earned recognition as the Best Female artist. Diamond Platnumz was crowned Best Artist – East Africa, while Rwandan sensation Bruce Melodie triumphed as the Best Rwandan Artist.

Ivory Coast’s Didi B was honored as the Best Artist Africa – Francophone, with compatriots KS Bloom and Tam Sir receiving accolades in the Best Gospel Artist and Best Producer categories. Lisandro Cuxi was named Best Artist Africa – Lusophone.

In recognition of his illustrious music career, Nigeria’s 2Face was presented with the Lifetime Achievement award. Rutshelle Guillance was titled Best Artist – Caribbean, Goulam emerged as the Best Artist – Indian Ocean, and Dystinct claimed the Best Artist – North Africa accolade.

Yemi Alade’s hit track “Baddie” was celebrated as the Best Video, while music producer and philanthropist, Mr. Eazi, received the special ChangeMarker award for his humanitarian efforts.

British rapper Central Cee was named Best Artist – UK, Tayc took home the trophy for Best Artist – France & Belgium, Ludmilla was honored as the Best Artist – Brazil, and Michael Brun was declared the Best DJ for Haiti.

Each of the winners received unique Trace Awards Trophies, intricately designed by the acclaimed Congolese sculptor and designer, Dora Prevost.