Africa’s musical heartbeat is about to sync with the future of technology. The Wits Innovation Centre (WIC), in collaboration with the Machine Intelligence & Neural Discovery Institute (MIND) at Wits University, has launched an open call for the AI & African Music Project—a groundbreaking initiative that places African creativity at the center of artificial intelligence.

Why This Matters

Most AI music tools are trained on Western data, often overlooking the rich diversity of African musical forms—from the pulsating rhythms of amapiano and Afrobeats to the spiritual depth of gospel and indigenous traditions. This project flips the script, inviting African creators to shape the future of music tech with their own sonic heritage.

What’s on Offer

Selected participants will receive:

• R30,000 (~$1,700) per month for 4–6 months
• A dedicated AI collaborator (engineer/technologist)
• A collaborative workshop in Johannesburg (Nov 2025)
• Monthly advisory and production support
• A final public showcase in April 2026

Who Should Apply

This opportunity is open to:

• Musicians
• Producers
• Composers
• Music educators
  …of African descent, based in any African country, working in any genre.

How to Apply

Submit your Expression of Interest by 14 September 2025 to gain access to a guidance webinar. Final applications are due by 23 September 2025, including:

• A 500-word project description
• Short bio/CV
• Examples of past work

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This

This isn’t just funding—it’s a chance to co-create with AI, redefine musical innovation, and showcase African excellence on a global stage. Whether you’re archiving traditional sounds, building new tools, or composing genre-bending tracks, this is your moment.

Learn more and apply via the Music In Africa announcement.