In a grand press conference held on February 28th, 2024, the city of Douala witnessed the announcement of the inaugural edition of the Makossa Musiki Awards. This momentous occasion brought together Makossa music legends, including the likes of Prince Eyango and Longue Longue, who gathered to unveil a project aimed at honoring and uplifting the iconic Cameroonian music genre of Makossa.
Makossa, often hailed as the root of Cameroon’s musical landscape, holds a significant place in the hearts of many across Africa and beyond. Prince Eyango, one of the key figures behind the Makossa Musiki Awards, expressed his commitment to the project by stating, « Makossa is a long history, a reason why I decided to be the godfather of the 1st edition of this project. »
The Makossa Musiki Awards, scheduled to take place from the 7th to the 11th of April 2024 in Douala, is the brainchild of Junior Eyango, an artist who has dedicated himself to promoting Makossa through his music. With the music industry in Cameroon facing challenges that threaten the value of Makossa, this event aims to serve as a platform for discussions among artists, sponsors, and partners. The goal is to rejuvenate Makossa as a cornerstone of Cameroonian heritage, reignite the interest of the youth in this musical tradition, pay tribute to Makossa legends, discover new talents, and foster collaborations with national and international investors.
Furthermore, the Makossa Musiki Awards seek to develop strategies that will engage the media, sponsors, cultural actors, and institutions in supporting the resurgence of Makossa. By creating a space for dialogue and collaboration, this initiative aims to propel the Cameroonian music industry forward while preserving the rich cultural identity encapsulated in the rhythms of Makossa.
As preparations for the first edition of the Makossa Musiki Awards gather momentum, the music community in Cameroon eagerly anticipates a celebration of Makossa’s enduring legacy and a renaissance of this cherished musical tradition.
