Johannesburg has a special energy for musicians. There is a pulse to the city that seems to echo from every café conversation, every performance venue and every gathering of creative people. Today I had the opportunity to experience that energy firsthand as I attended ACCES 2026, one of Africa’s leading gatherings for music professionals.
From the moment I arrived, I found myself surrounded by artists, managers, promoters, publishers, festival organisers and music entrepreneurs from across the continent and beyond. The conversations were inspiring and thought-provoking. Everywhere I turned people were discussing artist development, touring, streaming, publishing rights, international partnerships and the future of African music.
One of the strongest messages emerging from today’s sessions was the importance of building sustainable careers and strong music ecosystems. The discussions explored how artists can create opportunities beyond their home markets, develop meaningful collaborations and build careers that can travel across borders. As an independent jazz artist from Botswana, I found these conversations both relevant and encouraging.
I was particularly interested in discussions about touring and the growing opportunities for African artists to connect with audiences across the continent and internationally. There was a shared sense that African music is entering an exciting period of growth and that artists are increasingly taking control of their own creative and business journeys.
Beyond the formal sessions, ACCES is also about people. Some of the most valuable moments happen between presentations, over coffee, during introductions and in the casual conversations that spark new ideas and future collaborations. It is inspiring to meet people who are equally passionate about music and who believe in the power of African creativity.
This evening the focus shifts to the Industry Nights, where delegates and artists come together to enjoy live performances and continue building relationships through music. There is something fitting about ending a day of discussion and strategy by returning to the very thing that brings us all together: the music itself.
Being in Johannesburg today also brought a sense of anticipation. I am excited to know that I will be returning to this city in March next year to perform at The Artistry, one of Johannesburg’s most exciting live music venues. Knowing that I will soon be sharing my music here makes this visit even more meaningful. Every conversation, every connection and every lesson learned today feels like part of a larger journey.
As I reflect on the day, I feel grateful for the opportunity to represent Botswana in such an important gathering of music professionals. African music continues to cross borders, connect cultures and create new possibilities. It is exciting to be part of that story.
Tomorrow brings another full day of learning, networking and discovery. For now, I leave inspired, hopeful and even more committed to sharing my music with audiences across Africa and beyond.
— Nnunu Ramogotsi
Johannesburg, South Africa
ACCES 2026
