On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Shoreditch House in London, Billboard Editorial Director Hannah Karp reportedly announced the launch of Billboard Africa. Launched in partnership with Global Venture Partners, an international venture capital firm, Billboard Africa is described by Billboard’s Heran Mamo as “the leading hub for African music and culture featuring editorial content, charts, breaking news, videos, interviews, and exclusive events.”
“At Billboard, we are committed to amplifying the voices of exceptional artists and sharing the stories that shape the global music landscape,” Billboard CEO Mike Van said about the new imprint. “Billboard Africa is a pivotal step in this journey, as African music has evolved into a dynamic force with a rich cultural heritage and an undeniable impact on the world. This new platform enables us to create meaningful opportunities for African artists to connect with a global audience, elevating their talent to unprecedented levels.”
Nkosiyati “Yati” Khumalo will serve as the first editor for Billboard Africa. Khumalo is a graduate of the University of Cape Town and a veteran journalist with more than a decade of experience working for Picasso Headline, GQ, and Apple Music. Most recently, he worked as an editor at Apple Music South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.
“Our investment in Billboard Africa is not just about creating a new platform; it’s about recognizing and amplifying the untapped potential of the African music industry,” Global Venture Partners CEO Brandon Martin added. “Africa has long been a cultural powerhouse, with music at the heart of that influence. Through Billboard Africa, we’re not only raising visibility for artists but laying the groundwork for an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth. We hope this venture encourages more members of the African diaspora to see the incredible opportunities on the continent and invest in its future. By working together, we can build a vibrant ecosystem where African talent thrives, strengthens local economies, and reaches every corner of the globe.”
