Marcus Gora Named Music In Africa Foundation Chairperson
The Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) has announced the election of Marcus Gora from Zimbabwe as its new chairperson.
The decision was made during the organisation’s 12th Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on 16 November in Kigali, Rwanda.
The AGM coincided with the 2024 Music In Africa Conference for Collaborations, Exchange and Showcases (ACCES).
Gora takes over from outgoing chairperson Maïmouna Dembélé of Senegal.
The new board reflects diverse representation from Africa’s music scenes and MIAF’s international partners. The elected members include:
- Chairperson: Marcus Gora (Zimbabwe)
- Deputy Chairperson: Julz Ossom (Ghana/Canada)
- Treasurer: William Chirinda (South Africa)
- Board Members: Tabu Osusa (Kenya), Kobina Ankomah Graham (Ghana), Marie-Kimberly Tesha Oxide (Mauritius), Eddie Hatitye (South Africa), Caroline Christgau (South Africa), and Joachim Gerstmeier (Germany).
Christgau and Gerstmeier represent MIAF’s founding partners, Goethe-Institut and Siemens Stiftung, respectively.
A Vision for Growth
Speaking on his appointment, Gora expressed gratitude and optimism for the Foundation’s future.
“I am deeply honoured to have been elected as the new chairperson of the Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) board. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the newly elected board members,” he said.
He emphasised the board’s commitment to building on past achievements.
“As the new board, our priority is to refine the organisation’s strategy to ensure its continued growth, sustainability, and impact.
“Together, we aim to advance the mission of MIAF, fostering the inclusive development of Africa’s vibrant music industry. Let’s work together to take this incredible organisation to even greater heights.”
Marcus Gora manages Zimbabwean music group Mokoomba and co-founded First Floor Gallery, a cultural platform with spaces in Harare and Victoria Falls.
He is also the vice-chairperson of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe board.
Recognising Past Contributions
MIAF executive director Eddie Hatitye welcomed the new board while acknowledging the contributions of outgoing members.
“We are thrilled to welcome the new board members to the Foundation and look forward to working closely with them,” Hatitye said.
“The elected members bring a wealth of experience and expertise in the African music scene, and we are confident they will play a vital role in driving the Foundation’s growth and impact.
“I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing chairperson, Maimouna Dembélé (Senegal), and board members Aziza Ongala (Tanzania), Matilde Moucha (Mozambique), and Jens Cording (Germany) for their invaluable contributions to the Foundation during their tenure.”
The Road Ahead
As Gora takes the helm, the MIAF board is tasked with steering the organisation toward greater inclusivity and innovation in Africa’s music industry.
With its mission to support and promote the music sector across the continent, MIAF is poised to strengthen its role as a vital platform for collaboration and cultural exchange.
