The Francophone African Music Industries Fair (SIMA) is set to convene in Cotonou from November 12-13, aiming to transform Africa's burgeoning global music influence into tangible economic power.

• The event seeks to generate up to 20 million jobs by 2030 for Africa's creative economy.
• Key participants include artists, producers, investors, policymakers, and international industry players, with co-founder Mamby Diomandé emphasizing the shift from cultural phenomenon to economic force.
• SIMA 2026 will focus on enhancing business competitiveness, integrating music with sectors like fashion and tourism, and strengthening regulatory frameworks, while also exploring technological changes like artificial intelligence.