REMA 2026: Check out the program for the 9th edition
The 9th edition of the Rencontres Musicales Africaines (REMA) officially begins on Thursday, October 22, 2026, in Ouagadougou. Under the theme “Followers: From Passive to Active,” this edition aims to strengthen the skills of music industry professionals and engage audiences in African music creation.
Launched in 2018 by the Cour du Naaba, REMA has established itself over the years as a premier event for music professionals in Burkina Faso and across Africa. “Contributing to the professionalization of music careers and making the music industry a driver of economic and cultural development”—this is the stated goal behind the creation of REMA.
For this 9th edition, the activities combine training and creative expression. The program includes a music boot camp, a creative residency, training in music project management, and a session dedicated to artificial intelligence applied to music creation. REMA Play will round out the program with live concerts at the Faso Cultural Center.
Young Burkinabè Artists in the Spotlight
The REMA Play stage will host several African and Burkinabé artists. On Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Faso Cultural Center, the audience will be treated to performances by Lil Jay Bingerack, Yilim, Salima Chicha, DJ Adam’s, Malakey, and Jeady Jay.
On Saturday, October 24, 2026, also at the Faso Cultural Center, Kayawoto, Amzy, Francky FP, Blacky, DDK, Kosa Pic, Young Ced, and Wilking will take the stage. This lineup highlights the diversity and dynamism of the new generation of musicians.
Beyond concerts and workshops, REMA offers an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and attract new investments. REMA can serve as a platform for the Burkinabè diaspora—specifically entrepreneurs and investors interested in culture—to discover talent, forge collaborations, and invest in music production, distribution, and promotion. This potential should be harnessed to make music a true driver of job creation and a means of raising Burkina Faso’s profile.
M’pempé Bernard HIEN
