While female artists are thriving in the limelight, many women are also making significant contributions behind the scenes, shaping the African music industry in powerful ways. From producers to managers, executives, and content creators, women are breaking barriers and redefining the business.
Female Producers & Sound Engineers
The music production space has traditionally been male-dominated, but women are stepping up and proving their skills in the studio. Some of the top female producers making a difference include:
DJ Poizon Ivy (Kenya/USA) – One of the few Kenyan female DJs and producers gaining international recognition, known for her work in Hip Hop and Afrobeats.
These women are pushing boundaries, ensuring that female voices are represented in music creation.
Talent Managers & PR Experts
Behind every successful artist is a solid management team, and women are increasingly stepping into these roles. Some of the most influential female managers include:
Anyiko Owoko (Kenya) – is a publicist and music executive, helping to nurture and manage upcoming talent.
These women are proving that success in the industry isn't just about being on stage but also about strategy, branding, and management.
Label Executives & A&R Professionals
Music labels are the backbone of the industry, and more women are now taking leadership positions in African record labels. Some are involved in signing and mentoring artists, ensuring female musicians receive the recognition they deserve.
Notable figures include:
Agnes Opondo (Kenya) - She is leading A&R and marketing expert who thrives in seeing artists grow especially in Kenya.
Yewande Arigbadu(Nigeria) – An executive at a leading Nigerian record label, focused on developing emerging artists.
These women are actively changing how African music is produced, marketed, and consumed globally.
Music Journalists & Content Creators
Music journalism and digital content creation play a critical role in shaping artist narratives. Female journalists, bloggers, and influencers are using their platforms to highlight African music and culture.
Kalondu Musymi(Kenya)-Is a journalist with Radio Africa’s Mpasho who gets to intercate with celebrities of all levels. Thus oozing the charisma of 2025 women’s day theme “Accelerate Action”.
Claudia Naisabwa(Kenya)-A versatile journalist and MC who has an impeccable niche across the African music scene.
Branice Nafula (Kenya) – While primarily known for storytelling, her work in telling music stories has been impeccable in the few years of her career as Mdundo.com’s Editorial and Content manager.
Through articles, interviews, and social media content, these women ensure that African music receives the recognition it deserves. Women in the African music industry are making incredible strides, not only as artists but also as producers, managers, and executives. They are shaping the sound, business, and storytelling of African music, ensuring that female voices continue to thrive.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, it’s important to recognize these contributions and continue supporting female talent in all aspects of the music industry. The future of African music is undoubtedly female!